A Pretty Rosy Chemise and Panties from Butterick B6031 – A Pattern Review

This was my first time using a Butterick pattern by Gertie.  I followed Gertie’s Butterick pattern 6031 to make a chemise and panties from sheer stretch mesh and stretch lace. They turned out really pretty, don’t you think?

I made the chemise, which is a modified variation of version C, and the panties, version D, in a few afternoons of sewing.  Version C is a slip and I altered the pattern to add a bit of flare, to shorten the length and to remove the slit of lace at the hem line, resulting in a pretty chemise.  I used a stretch mesh that I purchased at the Fabric Outlet on Mission St. in San Francisco.  Isn’t it beautiful?  I also purchased the 1-1/2″ stretch lace for the bodice and neckline at this store.  I purchased the lace for the front of the straps at JoAnn’s.  The back of the straps are bra straps from my stash.  I used a 2.5 mm length zigzag stitch for the entire project, with the exception of the darts and the lettuce edging.

This is version C is a slip and I altered the pattern to add a bit of flare, to shorten the length and to remove the slit of lace at the hem line.  Instead of lace at the bottom of the chemise, I added a lettuce edge using my serger.  I like this look better than the lace for a chemise. 

This is the first time I’ve made a lettuce edge and I like the way it turned out. It was easy to do and I think it looks very feminine.  I like the way this chemise moves and flows when worn.  It would be pretty as a long gown.

 

One thing I didn’t like about this pattern was that the straps are to be made from 1/2″ stretch lace, which would not hold up well, in my opinion.  I made the straps more sturdy by sewing in 1/4″ elastic on the inside of the lace and using adjustable bra straps in the back.  This keeps the straps pretty in the front, and reinforced, and flat, in the back.  These modifications will help this chemise stand up to wear over the years.

Next, I made the panties that are version D in this pattern. I used a black knit cotton to line the crotch.  They were a breeze to make!   Since they are hidden by the chemise, I will make a camisole of the same fabric and lace to go with these panties.

I used my serger again to do the lettuce edges.  This style is great under a skirt or dress where elastic around the legs isn’t necessary.

This is a size medium.  The fit is just right. 

Butterick 6031 is a great pattern and I highly recommend it for everyone.  With some pretty fabric, any sewist can have a beautiful chemise, slip or camisole and matching panties in no time at all!