Another Gertie Patreon pattern review

Featuring a Megan Nielsen Patterns review

I decided two days ago I had to use Nanowrimo to write a blog post every day for the rest of November, so here’s yet another old project of mine I never discussed here. I made Gertie’s Picnic blouse (another Patreon offering) because I was really vibing a more modern approach to a 40s playsuit. It was right before Electric Forest and I didn’t have enough outfits for running around in the sun. I also wanted an excuse to buy these glasses from Fashion Brand Company when they went on sale (not sponsored obviously, I’m just obsessed with Penelope Gazin and everything she does).

My plan was just to use some linen scraps in my stash and instead of fiddling with buttons I found a separating zipper. The color blocking already elevated it to a modern aesthetic and I think the zipper added just a little bit more to it.

Fit wise, I’m not super happy with it tbh. It’s something I would have to play with more, but the shoulders just don’t sit right and I had to add a ribbon and snaps to connect it to my bra strap to keep it upright. Also the zipper doesn’t stay up which isn’t a huge deal at a music festival, but it’s not great lol. I definitely need to add a hook and eye or something to keep it up. Also if I make this pattern again I would definitely add the lining as recommended in the pattern. I just didn’t have the time or energy for it since this was a bit of a last minute make.

Another last minute make was these Megan Nielsen Tania culotte shorts. These are the second pair I’ve made, but they’re in the narrow shorts version instead of the voluminous ones. Nothing wrong with the pattern, but to be honest I am going to scrap these shorts. I made a couple poor decisions in making these. Most importantly, I don’t like the narrower style. I’ve made Helen’s Closet Winslow culottes before and I wear those constantly. I should have just made those instead for the same vibe. Secondly, I was trying to be super eco friendly with this one and decided to use some sun faded cotton curtains that I found at the thrift store. I went through the whole process of re-dyeing them black (twice because I didn’t use enough dye the first time) and not only is one side still darker than the other, but the fabric is pilling and itchy and terrible because it’s old and was not made for this kind of use. I’m still a huge fan of upcycling, but it just did not work in this case. Lastly, I went down a size from the last time I made these since my other pair is slightly too large. Except in this case this pair is slightly too small. Turns out I’m in between sizes and if I use this pattern again I will adjust it.

All in all I like the vibe of this outfit, but the fit leaves a lot to be desired. Next year I will be making a black pair of the Winslow culottes to go with this outfit in a light twill or linen/rayon blend or anything more durable for a pair of every day shorts. I will also be fixing the things I mentioned about the top so it’s a little more wearable. 🌼