Gilbert Top

When I saw a few of my favourite sewists post this shirt, it shot up to the top of my “to make” list extremely quickly! The Gilbert Top by Helen’s Closet is a favourite in the sewing community – and for good reason. It’s a very fast, very satisfying sew with a really fun construction method. I only have one hangup, which is most certainly my fault. 

When I cut out this pattern, I had planned to make View A (which features a tie front). I added 2” of length to accommodate my height of 5’9, but I really didn’t need to. The tie sat too low on my hips and looked a bit awkward. This is the second time I’ve lengthened a top pattern that didn’t need it, so I definitely have to reconsider that in the future! To salvage the top, I cut off the bottom up to the top of the ties, which cropped it significantly. I’m not mad at it, but it’s not exactly what I had in mind.

This was a wearable toile, and I’ll definitely still wear it, so I’m not completely heartbroken. I made it from a very cheap seersucker fabric that I purchased in the U.S. a few years ago (pre-pandemic). It’s still 100% cotton and should wear well. I absolutely love sewing with seersucker. It doesn’t stretch out like double gauze and is still light and airy.

I think I’m more likely to wear this shirt open, layered over a tank or dress. With that in mind, I actually like the shorter length and would consider making a few more (I’m thinking white linen and chambray). Next time, I’ll make a full length shirt with no adjustments, which might come up a bit short on me anyways. I’ll also take 1-2” off of the sleeves.

This shirt comes together using the burrito method, which is like sewing magic. It isn’t difficult and leaves a beautiful finish. If you’ve never used that method before, just trust the process and give it a try. It’s so worth it! 

Happy making, 

Jackie

A little disclaimer: This blog is very small, so it almost goes without saying, but I am not affiliated with any brands mentioned in this post.