Pattern Review – Cielo by Closet Case Patterns

What comes first, the pattern or the fabric? For most of my makes, the pattern inspires me first, and then I find a fabric to compliment it. For this project, it was the other way around – the material drove my pattern choice. I bought a modern print that was crying out for an edgy pattern, and that’s how I found my way to Cielo by Closet Case Pattern.

In this post, I’ll review the good, the bad, and the ugly of this pattern. Spoiler alert: I love this top, but the husband hates it.

I love boxy tops . . . on other people. I’m a petite gal, and these tops make me look like a hanger, so I avoid them. But now that I had this fabric, I started a long search for a loose-fitting top with a bit of drama. What kind of drama? Like porn, I couldn’t define it, but I would know it when I saw it. After six months, I found Cielo by Closet Case Patterns on Instagram. It was the perfect boxy cut with lantern sleeves, and everyone looked great in it. I chose view B with poufy sleeves and cut out size six based on my measurements.

Cielo comes with 2 tops and 2 dresses. Sizes range from 0 to 20 with B, C and D cup options. All views have slightly dropped shoulders, angled shoulder yoke and roomy fit. I cut out size 6 based on my measurements.

I never make a toile because I’m too impatient, but I made an exception because I wanted a perfect top. I’m glad I went through this hassle because this top was HUGE! I knew this pattern had generous ease, but it was overboard.

Almost everyone on PatternReview.com extended the bodice 2″, so I did the same. The hem hits me perfectly at the hipbone, but if I raise my arms, you get a peek of my midriff.

Cielo is worth a sew if you like a loose, boxy shape with exaggerated sleeves. Double-check the finished size against your body size for the best fit. Be sure to extend the bodice if you want to avoid the crop top look.