As you know by now, I love pattern testing. I like it because I feel like I am being helpful, but mostly I like it because it forces me to have deadlines. I don’t finish stuff without deadlines, but am super good at sewing for a particular occasion or to a specified date.
I signed up for this pattern test with a small amount of trepidation. I wasn’t sure whether a boiler suit would work for me (in terms of style and frankly, in terms of figure). I did some “plus sized boiler suit” googling and was encouraged by some of the awesomely cool results – so dived in!
This pattern test was an update of a size range for an existing pattern. I especially love supporting companies to be more inclusive in their size ranges – here is my tester version of the Alice and Co Intrepid Boiler Suit (size 18 – 22 expansion), which has just been released this week:

I used a grey Cupro/linen/Tencel blend from Tessuti. It’s called Harley Fern (which suggests green) but is also described as khaki grey…It’s got a lovely drape and is a super comfortable weight.
These fabrics often have a slubby texture which is more pronounced on the right side, but less so on the reverse which has more of a sheen. I used the sheen side.

The instructions let you choose various different zip methods (exposed, normal, invisible). I went with exposed (as you can see!) and chose a contrasting zip to add a bit of interest.

I do think this boiler suit is pretty flattering, though I hate that word. I like how it looks and it’s absurdly comfortable.
I also like this fabric a lot, though it definitely still creases…

Trepidation vanquished! I would definitely make this again.
All the deets:
Pattern: Alice & Co Intrepid Boiler Suit
Size: Cut a 20, reduced to 18 around hips
Adjustments:
- A dartless FBA (using the Paprika Patterns method)
- Graded down in the hips (about 1″)
- Added length to bodice (2″)
- Added length to legs (2″ but removed some of that in hemming)
- Removed some length from sleeves in hemming)
Fabric used: Harley Fern from Tessuti Fabrics. It’s 47% Cupro 31% Linen 22% Tencel.
Like it? Wearing it? Yes and Yes!
Notes for next time:
- Interesting to make
- Would definitely make again – maybe in a lighter weight denim for winter?
