I’m thrilled to introduce you to the Simone Overalls. They are a versatile and effortless everyday overall that can be worn tied in a variety of ways. The Simone Overalls come in 7 size ranges – up to a 74″ (188cm) hip – along with the option to self-draft based on your own specific measurements. The pattern creates minimal fabric waste and the pattern pieces are drawn directly onto the fabric – no need to print, cut, and tape the main pattern. The only pattern pieces that need to be printed are the bib cutouts. The pattern includes a Self-Drafting Guide that walks you through making the pattern pieces for your specific measurements – no matter what size you are. The Self-Drafting Guide and fit guidelines can be used in conjunction with the given size ranges to make fit adjustments easily.
I must admit that when I started designing the Simone Overalls, I had not worn overalls for probably 25 years. After seeing them pop up more and more, I was intrigued by the concept and wanted to give them a try. I decided to take a stab at designing my own pair with the goal of being zero-waste. I knew I wanted something that was flexible, easy to wear, and worked on a wide range of body types.
While I didn’t reach a fully zero-waste design, I feel that I achieved my other design goals. The Simone Overalls are comfortable and allow for lots of movement. The ability to tie the overalls in numerous ways lends to additional creativity when getting dressed. They work well with a variety of fabric types and weights; from drapey linen to more structured cotton twill or lighter weight denim. In the end, the pattern is minimal waste, with the potential to be zero-waste depending on your size and fabric layout. Any remaining fabric will be a very useable offcut.
The design is based on the wearer’s hip measurement and the waist ties bring everything in at the waist. The ties can be tied in multiple ways, giving the wearer a lot of versatility. The shoulder straps are also adjustable allowing the overalls to be worn looser or closer to the body depending on the desired look. This adjustability allows the Simone Overalls to be worn with various tops underneath and allows the garment flexibility for potential body changes. One tester noted that they would make great maternity wear. I appreciate their ability to loosen if I don’t feel like wearing anything tight around my waist, but I can change the way the overalls are tied to make a new look and feel when I want.
I had an amazing group of testers who gave me excellent feedback on the pattern. It is incredibly helpful to have other sewists make your pattern; not only do they check the fit and double-check for errors, but it also helps to have people who work and think differently than I do review the process and steps. Sometimes things make sense to me, but might not to other people so it is very informative to receive the tester’s feedback. It was wonderful to work with them and I have loved seeing all of their versions.
Here are some of my testers showing off their Simone Overalls. Thank you again testers!! Check them out on Instagram to see more of their amazing work – top row (left to right): @slowsewed, @sarah_seams, @handmademandy, @pockifish – middle row (left to right): @Mogglemakes, @threadandsprout, – bottom row (left to right): @madebyloobles, @tijerashomesewn, @queen_ambrosia_, @jess.sews.stuff
In addition to the PDF pattern, I also started a Youtube channel. As of now, I have a demonstration video that shows all the different ways that the Simone Overalls can be tied at the waist. There are also the first couple of videos up for the Simone Overall sew-along. You can currently find videos on How To Insert the Leg Gusset Parts 1&2. I hope to have the remaining videos up shortly so be sure to check back if you want to follow along.
I hope you enjoy sewing and wearing the Simone Overalls as much as I have. I’m looking forward to seeing more versions out in the world. Tag @goldfinch.limited and #simoneoveralls on Instagram if you make them or send me a photo – I love to see your makes! Also, if you have any questions about the pattern or design please don’t hesitate to reach out – emily@goldfinch.limited. Enjoy!
[…] The Simone Overalls are a low-waste pattern developed by Emily of Goldfinch Limited, a sustainable textile studio. […]