A tale of 'almost' THREE Ogden camis

 I love wearing camisole tops, they're so versatile. You can wear them in the summer just as, or layer them up under a cardigan or sweater through the cooler months. They can be worn under dresses, with skirts and trousers...the list is endless. So when I threw out my last unwearable old saggy cami I looked to make something to replace it.

Enter....the Ogden cami by True Bias. This top has had countless positive reviews and is available across a wide size range. I've also seen many hacks on Instagram, so I was excited to give it a go.

I made my first one with some flowery mustard viscose I bought for a steal a few years ago and was happy to use as a (hopefully wearable) toile. From my measurements and the garment finished measurements I opted to cut out a size 14 (I have the 0-18 pack). So I printed off the pattern, cut it out and then cut the fabric out. As it was my first toile I decided to make no adjustments and just how things went.

This is what I ended up with. The top fits fine everywhere except under my arm/top bust area where it puckers.

I added a dart but that was disastrous (so disastrous I didn't even take a photo!). So I made another toile with an added dart in that exact area to see if it would make things better.

Another terrible disaster!!! Just look at that mess. I was starting to think I will never be a sewer. Ogden was going to have to go in the naughty corner! I was feeling pretty stink about the whole thing so I asked friends on instagram what to do. I had some great suggestions about making a larger size (definitely on the cards!), doing a full bust adjustment, or doing some micro gathers to reduce the armscye on the inside of the cami...then changing the actual pattern for next time I make one.  All of which I was totally prepared to do (I hate it when things seem out of reach and am determined to get a decent finished product).

So, I tried the first one on again so I could get the measurements to amend the paper pattern and weirdly....the cami fit me! 🤔

Okay, it's a little loose at the neck but the underarm and bust is smooth. I double checked and realised I'd put it on back to front (this time!! The first time I wore it, it was definitely the right way round). It's definitely more wearable than before. So I'm not going to make any adjustments to this...

So, guys the moral of the story is that wearing your clothes back-to-front is the answer!!!! Happy to have a finished and wearable garment, but not sure this is the best way forward....???

Ogden Cami by True Bias