Simplicity 8228 Bralette Variation 1

I’m super psyched that the Madalynne X Simplicity patterns are finally available for y’all to make and sew. Not just because I’m excited to see what you make, but because I’m excited to inundate you with all the different things you can do with these two patterns. My goal was to create basic lingerie patterns that could be transformed into many different styles with minimal pattern alterations. So today, I’ll be showing you how to alter the 8228 bralette three ways: eliminate the racerback, add stability and clean finish the seams. Seriously, it’s easy peasy.

Eliminating Racerback: Not a pattern alteration per se, just don’t use the upper back and the back pattern pices. Instead, add strap elastic (click here for tutorial). In the photos, I used 1/2″ elastic straps and bartacked to secure at strap points and upper back band 2.5″ away from center back.

Adding Stability: The directions say to use mesh to line all pieces, which creates a bralette that is comfortable and somewhat supportive. Keyword is somewhat. If you want to add more support, line the cup front, cup side front and front band with sheer cup lining or 15 denier tricot, which can be purchased here or here. If you do, keep in mind that the back bands should still be lined with mesh to allow for breathing/movement.

Additional way to increase support – add channeling at the side seams, which helps with preventing the bra from rolling up. You can see how I added in the photos below.

Clean Finishing Seams: The instructions say to turn the seam allowances to one side and topstitch using a small zigzag or straight stitch. If you have a serger, you can serge the seam allowances since that stitch has give. Another option is to clean finish, or sandwich the seam allowances between the lining and the self. For this bra, I used this method at the cup seams, center front seam and band band. Below, I demonstrate how to do this method at the band band, but it’s the same method you’d use at the center front and cup seams:

First let’s look at the pattern pieces. The above three images show the upper and lower back band patterns, both are lined with powernet with the powernet extending the the low point of the scallop lace.

With right side of self fabric facing, place both layers of lining on one side. You should place the linings on the opposite side you want to clean finish. Second image shows the order of the fabric layers.

Use a zigzag stitch to sew the seam.

Then turn back and topstitch using a zigzag stitch. That’s it! You would do the same thing at the center front and cup seams.

Don’t forget! If you make any of the Madalynne X Simplicity patterns, share on Instagram with the hashtags #bramakingwithmadalynne and #simplicitypatterns. You could be regrammed, or win a spot to one of my upcoming workshops!

panty is from the 8229 underwire pattern, lowered 1.5″ inches

all fabric and trims except for point d’esprit for panty came from Tailor Made Shop.