Summer, Summer, Summer Time: Simplicity 9550
Overview:
Mimi G consistently drops must-make patterns and S9550 is no exception (S9597 & S9798 are also on the list).
Skill Level*: Top-2, Shorts-3
Sewing Time: all day, two half days
Pattern:
This sportwear pattern is super cute and pretty simple to create. The top, that I've sewn before here, is a cute boxy crop top with two sleeve and two back options. This time I opted for the slit back and the cuff sleeves, so a combo of Views A&B. Sadly I wasn't paying enough attention when I was cutting out my pattern pieces and I forgot to lengthen the sleeves when cutting the back piece. Because of this I ended up making View A but without the elastic cuffs.
The shorts are also easy to make because the gathers make the fit a little less of an issue, though I should've lengthen the back crotch. Unfortunately the pattern doesn't include pockets, but fortunately as a sewist you can easily add them., which is what I did. I just used a in seam pocket pattern piece from a different Mimi G pattern (be sure the pocket isn't longer than the shorts).
Fabric:
What print could be more summery than lemons on a aqua blue? Not much. This fabric by Telio was gifted to me by fabric.com several years ago (re: pre-pandemic). I've always loved it, but like many of us tend to do I was saving it for the "right" project. Well recently I decided is more important to use my fabric than to simply look at it which also will help me sew down my stash.
Tiffany, a black woman, standing in front of a tree wearing a me made crop top and high waisted short set.
It didn't hurt that I do think this was a great pattern for this fabric. The pattern and the fabric scream Summertime! I mean I practically hear Will Smith rapping as I walk (lol).
I don't recall what this fabric is, but it is very lightweight like a challis. I knew it would be great for the gathered shorts. It's also comfortable to wear in this brutal summer heat we're experiencing in the southern US right now.
Modifications:
I added 2 inches of length to the crop top to add a bit more midsection coverage. Also, as mentioned above, I eliminated the elastic in the sleeve.
Summary:
I love this set. I have one more top in me to go with another set and I could see myself making more shorts!
Pattern: Mimi G for Simplicity 9550
Pattern Description: Pull-over top has puffed dolman sleeves finished with elastic at hems and back button closure. View B top features short cuffed sleeves, elastic at hem and open back with self ties. Mid-calf skirt and mid-thigh shorts have back zipper, hip yoke and sash.
Sizing: I sewed a 20 top and 22 bottom. 4-12, 14-22 (9550) 18W-26W, 26W-34W (9551)
Does it look like the photo/drawing on the pattern envelope? Yes
Were the instructions easy to follow? Yes
Would I recommend it to others? Yes
