La Brea Tee

If there is one thing that can derail me and get me stitching something NOT on my big, organized “list of  all the things I plan to sew” it’s a nice easy tee.  And, the latest LA BREA tee from Halfmoon Atelier, released today, is just that.  A derailer, a relaxing easy sew and totally worth setting aside more practical plans. Sometimes it’s just so satisfying to quickly create something that I will wear every day. Screw the list!

The LA BREA tee is a basic woven boxy tee pattern with two views; one of which can be made in an interlock knit.  I decided to make both views and tried out using the stretch of a bias cut instead of knit fabric for the second view.

My favorite feature of the second view is the bias trim that overlaps at the shoulder to create the kind of elegant detail characteristic of Meghann, the goddess behind Halfmoon Atelier.  For both views, I stitched up a straight size 5.  She has recently added to her size range and added options for larger cup sizes. (I believe this is the first pattern in the new size range actually).  I used the b-cup pattern and love how it fits in both views.

I used a loosely woven ikat fabric from Fibers to Fabric for the view b and a lovely Mariner Cloth by Alison Glass from Hawthorne Supply Co. for view a. I’m actually a little disappointed in how the ikat fabric looks at the bias angle. It’s sort of…I dunno, angry looking? Like, more aggressive than I expected. I have no idea if attaching emotions to this fabric is resonating with anyone else but it’s how it appeared to me. You can’t win them all! I think a different fabric would look beautiful, like maybe a linen slub or something? Anyway, it wasn’t the best fabric choice but I can live with that. It happens.

The magical, mystical mariner cloth, though? That is a choice I’m happy with.  Isn’t this top just the easiest, happiest thing?

Plus, I love that I was able to alternate the stripes with the sleeve cuff. I’ve already worn this top a lot. With yoga pants or jeans or a chambray skirt it is perfect. Just a wee bit dressy but not fussy.

I was a pattern tester, actually, so this pattern was given to me in exchange for my thoughts on the process.  And it was such an easy process. My opinions about it are all my own.

But, you can grab it right now ON SALE! Plus, it’s Meghann’s 40th birthday so go help her celebrate by sewing up one of her fabulous patterns. I am an affiliate for Halfmoon Atelier and this post contains affiliate links but all my opinions are my own. Thanks for your support.