Pattern Testing: Jose Cami

*Disclaimer: Pattern promotion is not part of testing agreement. Affiliate Link below. All opinions are my own.

I had the opportunity to work with Ann from Designer Stitch Patterns and test her latest Jose Cami/Slip Dress Pattern! I have had a cowl neck slip dress in the back of my mind since I saw Sewing Masin's Sicily Slip Dress circulate the Instagram sewing world. So when I saw the opportunity to test a similar design from Designer Stitch, I jumped on it! This pattern package actually includes a cami, slip dress, bodysuit and briefs option - it's a wonderful lingerie set all in one! There are 4 cup-sizes (B, C, D, DD/E) available and accommodates up to a 58" hips. 

Fabric Choice, Cutting and Sewing 

The fabric choice in this pattern is CRUCIAL to how the cowl drapes. The pattern recommends the slippy-ist fabric possible. So that means I must have the correct drape for my test garment as well. Lucky for me, I have this lightweight tencel twill in cream color in my stash that is perfect for this project. 

Cutting on the bias was quite intimidating for me as I have never made anything on the bias before (other than bias binding). I'm very blessed to have a huge cutting table, and very glad I invested in another large cutting mat to make cutting slightly easier. There are tons of tips for cutting on the bias on the internet, but I definitely don't think it is as scary as I thought. Since everything was on the bias, I made sure to staystitch my curves before accidentally stretching them out. 

Sewing this tencel wasn't too bad either. At least it doesn't slip too much. My Singer 401 A also seems to handle slippy fabric better than my Brother CS6000i, perhaps it's the pressure foot pressure adjustment that really shines in this case. 

Size, Fit and Adjustment Details 

I made a size 1 for muslin with extra seam allowance. Based on the size chart, I thought I would have to grade to a size 2 at the waist, but after cross-checking the final garment measurements and actually testing the size 1 toile. I was perfectly comfortable in the straight size 1. There was definitely enough ease in the pattern to accommodate up to the next size waist, if you don't sew in the waist dart. 

I find the cowl neckline very sexy, so I'm constantly shortening the straps to make sure it sits high enough to not show any cleavage. It's okay for home wear, but if I want to make one for wearing outside the house like the Sicily Slip dress, I'll have to pull it up higher for sure. Or maybe use some sticky tape on the inside. 

Final Thoughts

I really loved the versatility of this piece; I can throw a blazer over it and look like a total boss lady, or wear it as lingerie at home. The cami was a super quick sew. I spent more time being scared and prepping to cut out the patterns on the bias than I did sewing. Just take your time, it's really not that bad! I can't wait to make my slip dress dreams come true next; I'm on the hunt for the perfect silky fabric ;) If you're interested, check out the pattern from Designer Stitch! 

This is my first time working with Ann and Designer Stitch patterns. I like that Ann asks for fit photos and provides adjustment advice before giving you the go-ahead to sew up the final version. I believe there is a lot to learn about fitting and sometimes pattern tests are a really good place to learn.