Odessa Variation

At first glance, you may not realize that this bra top + panty set is the Odessa! One of several free PDF patterns, the Odessa has to potential for many variations and we had a fun time with this one! It may seem like a lot of changes, but it’s not! Just a few easy steps, shown below, and no pattern alterations. YAY!

1. Instead of cutting 2 of the Center Front Bodice (pattern piece #1), cut 1 on the fold. What fabric you use will depend on what you want the finished garment to look like. For this example, it is 3 layers – 1 layer of gingham printed lycra (on bottom) and 2 layers of baby blue stretch mesh (on top).
2. Mark the placement of the sheer center front opening. For this example, it is 2″ at top edge (neckline) and 0″ at bottom edge.
3. Sew fold over elastic together and cut into short strips approximately 1.5″ long.
4. Determine your lacing/criss cross pattern for one side. For this example, the strips are 1 ¼” spaced apart. Lay down strips on top of bodice and tack down with a straight stitch on both sides.
5. Lay strips in opposite direction on top of bodice and tack down on both sides.
6. Lay decorative trim on top of bodice so that is covers the inner/center front edge of the strips. Sew down with a straight or zigzag stitch
7. Cut away layers of fabric on center front panel. For this example, 1 layer of gingham printed lycra and 1 layer of baby blue stretch mesh was cut away, leaving 1 layer of stretch mesh left.