Sweet Sixteen Bralette Pattern
If you have even glanced at fashion magazines lately, you will see that there is a new darling in the bra world and it’s hot fashion news right now! Some would say it’s not a bra at all while others are claiming “it’s the best!” Who is this new Belle of the Ball? Why, the Sweet Sixteen bralette pattern of course!
What is a bralette? A bralette is a non-wired, unstructured bra that is a cross between a camisole and a training bra. They are typically worn as sleep bras or under casual or at home clothes. It often but not always has vertical seam cups so that lace edges can be utilized to their best advantage on the neckline edges. Some bralettes are foam lined, some are stretch lace, others are cotton jersey. Nothing too rigid or constrictive.
You badgered encouraged me!
What’s that got to do with us? Well, after being nudged (ahem…you know who you are!) in this direction for the last couple of years, I am happy to announce the Sweet Sixteen bralette pattern from Pin-up Girls!
Most would not say “support” and bralette in the same breath, but oddly enough, this one can be very supportive. With the options this pattern offers, this bralette could become your new breast friend! The typical ready to wear bralette is only available in smaller sizes..not ours!
With 6 band sizes from 28″-38″ (71 cm-96 cm) and 12 cup sizes ranging from a Bottom Cup Depth of 2.75″ up to 5.25″, that makes 72 unique sizes in all!
What? There’s More?
Hi – I have a question about finishing the vertical seam between the cups, one of the last steps in construction. When I use foam in the cups that seam gets very bulky. Is my only option to zigzag the edge to make it less bulky? Or should I try to shave it somehow? Please advise.
I got a copy of the new (January 2019) version. I can’t find the instructions on how or where to affix the straps in the back of the “one piece” version. Where is this information hidden?
The straps can be pinned in place where you want them to sit on the back, then stitched to the fold-over or elastic to secure them. I did forget that part of the instructions on this new version of the Sweet 16. I assure you I will add it for the next printing!
I just finished my first bralette in duoplex. I followed the instructions to the letter and was pleasantly surprised at how supportive it was for my 38F. No it doesn’t give the separation and definition that the Shelley bra gives but it was pretty darn good! I would wear this bra at home or under a sweatshirt. It certainly is comfortable and attractive. Next time I will try some foam with an attractive lace. Great job in this design!
Thanks for the kind words. I really do try to build lots of support in every one of my bra designs!
Hi Beverly,
I was under the impression that a Bralette was for smaller busted women. Wouldn’t that be wonderful to get rid of those wires. For years I wore unerwired bras but they now seem to bother me. My only concern about the bralette is it riding up. I noticed that the SPANX lace bralette has a wide elastic band. What I like about your pattern (have not bought it yet) is that the cups are shaped and it has a back closure. Most of the other bralettes have no back closures and are pulled ove the head — that would be a struggle for someone who does not have a small bust. Query: Would lining the lace band with a Spanx or Spandex like fabric prevent it from riding up. Thanks
Would you be doing a Craftsy class on this? That would be great. Would love to attend your Bralette Class but unfortunately it’s not convenient for me.
No Craftsy class on this however it is an easy pattern to fllow on your own. I have fitted women up to a 6.0 BCD which is a very large bust. If you use a non-stretch fabric you can have support without wires.
Wow, I didn’t realize you had bralette patterns too! Do you have any instructions for converting a well-fitting bra pattern into a bralette pattern or vice versa? I would be interested in understanding the process and I love your instructional materials (I have both bra maker’s manuals and 3 of your craftsy classes 🙂 )
I may have to do a blog post on that!