A few months ago I received some lovely Japanese sewing books in the mail. I’ve been admiring them for ages and I’ve finally made my first pattern from one of them. This pattern is from the book Simple Modern Sewing by Shofu To Seikatsu Sha. This is a great book that offers 25 different garments (including pattern pieces).
My Tuesday morning sewing group and I decided to start by making this lovely little sleeveless blouse with ruffle neck. In the book it’s pictured in black linen but I opted for this very lightweight Max Mara cotton.
The original pattern has the ruffle going around the front and the back of the neckline but I opted to attach it only at the front. For me a little ruffle goes a long way.
One of the main things that I noticed about Japanese patterns is how different they fit than the average “western” pattern. They design much more loose-fitting and shapeless garments and I love how they look on the Japanese models in the books. For me personally I tend to look better in more fitted styles so I took this blouse in on the sides to give it a bit more shape.
I think a pattern like this is great because you can make it in so many different ways. You can make it longer, shorter, with ruffle, without ruffle and change it drastically just be using a different fabric. In the book there is also the option to make this particular blouse in three different ways: sleeveless (like the one I made) with cap sleeves or with butterfly sleeves.
So now all I need is some hot summer weather so I can wear this pretty summer blouse. I have a feeling it’s going to be a while…
Jillian In Italy 
Lovely fabric! Just wear it with layers or something, it seems like a shame to have to wait so long!
Wow your sewing looks immaculate! Lovely print too!
I noticed the looser fit of Japanese brands as well. It’s great for me because I’m plus sized. Muji is such an evil place for me because I always manage to find a whole bunch of things that have a great fit!
Very pretty!
Beautiful blouse! I’m so impressed! You do inspire me and one of these days I may have to get the sewing machine out again. A cardigan sweater might also work nicely over it so you can wear it on warmer days this Fall – such a pretty design,.
The blouse came out nicely, and I really like the pattern. Now intrigued to seek out Japanese patterns…