07/06/2026
An appreciation post for stretch fabrics and outfits that don't require a bra for support ✨
I pattern tested the by & the by Road Trip Pattern Co. in the winter, I made two of each, and I have been surprised by how frequently I've been wearing them since!!! On days when a bra feels really overstimulating (which is way more common in the summer months for me), I've been reaching for these tops a LOT!
I also have been reaching for the by Sadie - Studio Sadoe a lot more frequently than I expected. It doesn't have a built in bra, but the one-piece nature and relaxed fit of it have been appealing to me a lot, too!
So, what to do? Create the best of both worlds! This morning I finished the by Made for Mermaids PDF Sewing Patterns with a double brushed poly from Surge Fabric Shop. I will say if you have not used a Made for Mermaids pattern before the instruction booklet can be a bit of a surprise... In my opinion it's very clunky and not nearly as clear and streamlined as most indie designs I use. But, it gets the job done and for the price point and many many view options I can't complain too much tbh.
Okay! Fit details! My measurements are 42" upper bust, 44" full bust, 38" waist, and 50" hips, and I am 5'2".
Wrenley Pattern - Size Yellow, no mods besides shortening the shorts inseam from 3" to 2" -- this was probably too short tbh, but 🤷🏻♀️
Crux Tank - Size 18, B Cup, I took 1" off each strap for the daisy version
Cloud Crop Tank - Size XL, D-cup, no mods!
Hollyhock Romper - Size 14, shortened torso length by 4", lengthened inseam by 4", and I added shoulder ties!
Oh & P.S. the rainbow gingham skirt is the by Noémie, size 20, no mods!