Opal is a blouson cardigan that brings a little structure to the softness of a knit layer. Slightly oversized through the bust and sleeves, the relaxed silhouette attaches to a fitted waistband that sits at the natural waist, creating an easy contrast between volume and definition. The result is a cardigan that feels cozy and relaxed while still giving your outfit a considered, feminine shape.
The cut-on dolman sleeves add to Opal's relaxed feel, flowing naturally from the bodice without a separate shoulder seam. A high, round neckline keeps the upper silhouette clean and classic, while fitted cuffs add a touch of structure to the sleeves.
Thoughtful finishing details give Opal a polished feel from the inside out. A facing neatly finishes the neckline and center front, creating a clean edge that complements the simple silhouette. The fitted waistband sits right at the waist, making Opal especially easy to pair with high-waisted bottoms or layer over dresses and skirts.
Fabric and Fit
Opal is designed for knit fabrics with good recovery. Look for medium-weight knits such as French terry, ponte, sweater knits, rib knits, double knits, or stable jersey. Fabrics with a little more body will help the blouson shape hold its volume, while softer knits will create a more relaxed, drapey silhouette.
Because Opal is intentionally oversized through the bust and sleeves, choosing a fabric that complements the desired amount of volume can make a big difference in the finished look. A structured knit will give you a more defined, polished cardigan, while a softer knit will emphasize the easy, slouchy quality of the design.
Dani is wearing the Opal cardigan in a size 2. We added 1" to both the body and sleeve lengths. Her measurements are bust: 34 1/2" (87.6 cm), waist: 27" (68.6 cm), hip: 37 1/2" (95.3 cm), and she is 5'9" (175.3 cm) tall.
Franki is wearing the Opal cardigan in a size 22. We added 3/4" to the body and reduced the sleeve length by 1". Her measurements are bust: 50 1/4" (127.6 cm), waist: 44" (111.8 cm), hip: 54 1/4" (137.8 cm), and she is 5'6 1/2" (168.9 cm) tall.
Fitting Tips
Opal is designed with a relaxed fit through the bust and sleeves and a fitted waistband at the natural waist. When choosing a size, pay particular attention to the waistband measurement. Adjust the length of the sleeve and body to ensure an intentional fit.
- Understanding ease will help you pick the right size or sizes. This tutorial will teach you all about design and wearing ease.
- Follow this tutorial to lengthen and shorten a sewing pattern.
- If you want to blend between sizes, use this video tutorial.
- To adjust the shoulder slope, follow this tutorial.
- Here are fitting tutorials for the shoulders and sleeves.
- Here are tutorials for small bust adjustments and full bust adjustments.
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