You know I really like Fibremood magazine. It offers us several times a year issues well stocked with sewing patterns for women from size XS to size 60 for most patterns.

The current edition, number 29, is an exceptional batch. I love many patterns including Alberthe, Dasha, June, Khloé, Inès... so many gems!

After much thought, I chose to start by sewing Alberthe as a top.

So, let's go! 

The pattern I chose: the Alberthe top 

Alberthe is a dress or a top with a twist, a faux wrap.

Alberthe features a high crossed neckline at the front.

Darts on the side seams ensure a fitted cut and the left side seam has an invisible zipper, making it easy to put on. 

The straps at the back are straight and comfortable. 

Practical information for sewing Alberthe

Alberthe is therefore a top from fibremood issue no. 29 (year 2024). It is available in paper version in the magazine you can find in physical stores and on the webshop. 

Alberthe is rated difficulty level 3 out of 5 by Fibremood. It is perfect for intermediate or resourceful beginner sewists and will be a fun piece to make for the more experienced.

It is graded from size XS to XXXL, which corresponds to a size 32 to 60. The measurement to consider most for this top is the bust circumference, which ranges from 76cm for XS to 146cm for XXXL. 

The Alberthe pattern itself is quite short, just under 58cm for the XS version and up to 73cm for the XXXL version. It stops around the small hips depending on your body shape. If you want a longer version, I recommend using the lines provided for this purpose to have a top that covers more at the hips or even switch to the dress version!
In that case, don't forget to check your hip circumference!

In the seamstress's basket

- fabric
- good quality sewing thread matching your fabric 
- fusible lining/interfacing: max. 55 cm
- an invisible zipper: 40 cm for the dress or 22 cm for the top
- a hook if needed

My supplies

I chose to use a beautiful coupon of 3m from our collection of joly coupons. I really liked the pansy pattern and the orange color which suits my complexion well.

I selected an invisible orange zipper 22cm and some white fusible interfacing H200.

I also used my overlocker and therefore some cones of white thread to neatly finish all the raw edges. 

The technical points of the pattern

As I said earlier, Alberthe is rated 3 out of 5 by Fibremood and this is no coincidence as it contains quite a few technical points. 

One difficulty I identify is that the front is asymmetrical and the assembly reflects that. You must not make a mistake in the assembly or you won't be able to fit into your top. 

To sew Alberthe, you will need:
- making darts
- making straps
- assembling facings
- creating asymmetry through clever assembly
- inserting an invisible zipper
- sewing a hem

My sewing experience

I enjoyed sewing this asymmetrical top. As I mentioned in the technical points, the front assembly is clever in creating a "false" wrap effect. I really like the shape it gives. 

I didn't have major difficulties assembling the top but I really had to refer to the front assembly to put it together correctly.

I chose to sew the smallest size, XS.

For the adjustments, I had to shorten the straps by 2cm at the back. I also had to remove 4cm from the bust circumference even though it was the smallest size, so if you have a small bust, I invite you to make a muslin.

I didn't make one so I had to use the seam ripper to remove my zipper and redo my top!

For the length, it was just perfect. 

I really like my top which I find very elegant. 

I can't wait to continue making the other patterns from this Fibremood issue! There are so many beautiful patterns! Are you charmed by the beautiful Fibremood patterns?

If yes, find it in store and on the webshop here. 

Get your needles ready!