introducing Lisette for Butterick B6464

These new pattern releases have a way of sneaking up on me. Is it really time for spring patterns and spring sewing already? I’m still hemming my winter coat!

But yes, the new line of Butterick spring patterns is out now, and I’m pretty excited about this one. This season we have a new Lisette pattern, and it’s a very versatile one. It includes three separate pieces, so you’re getting even more in one package than usual! I’m pleased to introduce you to Lisette for Butterick B6464.

This pattern is all about separates for combining into your wardrobe in many ways. You know me: versatility is my mantra when it comes to designing and sewing. I want to give you pieces that you can wear in as many ways as possible, and I hope these items will do just that.

The jacket’s styling is kimono-inspired, but it isn’t too literal.  It’s a perfect piece for layering. It’s a simple piece that can be styled lots of ways. You can sew it color-blocked like we show in the sample or you can make it in all one fabric. It’s meant for drapey fabrics so it will have lots of movement, and you could easily lengthen it for a more dramatic, fashion-designer feeling if you want to sweep into the room, ready for your close-up. It’s also easy to sew, with a dropped shoulder (no eased-in sleeves!) and bands at the sleeves and front edge.

The fun thing about a jacket like this is that you can throw it on over almost anything. I wear mine over ripped jeans and with strappy heels, but obviously it also works with the pieces in this pattern for a more professional look that you can wear to work as well. I think it would be great to wear in the summer when it’s too hot for a tailored jacket but you need an layer for the air conditioning. I’ll be making one for myself this spring because the evenings here in Madrid get cool.

Next: the top. I think shoulders are a fun way to show a little skin without being too revealing. This is a really easy piece to sew. It can be made in drapey and lightweight fabrics like voile and lawn or in silks and satins, but it will also work in regular cottons and shirtings. If you want, you can use a contrasting fabric for the neck yoke, and then there’s the little keyhole opening at the front and the gathering at the neckline which eliminates the need for bust darts. This top could be worn so many ways. You could even lengthen it to make a dress or a tunic if you want. I think it will be a terrific summer piece.

The skirt is designed specifically for knits. I wanted it to be more structured than the usual tube skirt, so I included princess seams and hidden elastic in the waistband. You can make this in either of two lengths: just above or just below the knee. If you choose a knit with some spandex that has nice recovery it will keep its shape and be really comfortable at the same time.

Tomorrow I’ll be back with lots of fabric suggestion and inspiration for these styles, and I can’t wait because I’ve found some really pretty ideas for you! Until then, you can find the pattern itself right here. See you tomorrow!