Hello there! This is Sarah and I am here today with a review of the Pensacola Beach Petal Top from Seaside Notions. Since we are headed toward fall here in CA, but will still have several hot spells before summer is completely over, I am trying to sew items that are cute for summer and easy to layer for fall. This top certainly fits the bill! It features a cute petal skirt that can be finished with trim, bias or hemming (I used jumbo ric rac) and a button closure bodice that has options for flutter sleeves, cap sleeves or a sleeveless version. I did the flutter sleeves because we love all things fluttered and trimmed the edges of the flutters with a cute eyelet trim. Since it was hot when we were taking pictures, I did not layer it over a long sleeve top, but the bodice and arm openings were roomy enough that I am sure a knit top will easily fit under it.

The construction on the top was pretty straightforward. The back placket adds a nice, finished look to the garment, but is a bit fiddly to get just right, so I would call this pattern an advanced beginner pattern. For kiddos with sensitivities to interior seams, the bodice completely encases the skirt seam so there are no exposed interior seams. Overall the fit was good and spot on the measurement chart. I made the size 5 based on my daughter's measurements. My total sewing time was about 3 hours with some interruptions.

I love how this top looks with the Aivilo Ruffle Pants from Aivilo Charlotte that I reviewed here almost 2 years ago (where does the time go?!?!) They were a bit big then and a bit small now, but she still insists they fit so we went with it! I was also THRILLED to get to try out two prints from the Art Gallery Curiosities line that I received in the August 2015 Stitch Box Monthly. I am not sure I have ever used a piece of fabric so soon after getting it, but they seems to be just perfect for this top.