Introducing the Clover Bodysuit and T-shirt

She’s sexy, but stylish. Quiet, but yet makes a statement. It’s the Clover bodysuit and T-shirt pattern, a fitted bodysuit and t-shirt that is something you never knew you needed. Or maybe you did and you’re way ahead of me…

When I started working on the Barrymore jeans I realized I just couldn’t wear only the cropped Sangria Tee with them all the time. I needed something with a little more sleeve and a neckline that can be worn for dressier occasions. Nothing beats the sleek, tucked in look of a bodysuit. 

But even if you are like- “No way” for bodysuit, I hear you and see you. You can make it as a t-shirt as well. In fact, if you are a fan of the FREE TONIC TEE, the body has a similar fit, this time with a long sleeve option. But there is also a 3/4, or elbow length and short cap sleeve options for you to mix and match with. 

I really wanted a square neck t-shirt, but everything out there gapes or it has a weird binding or clunky facing. I’m pretty pleased with the clever construction to get this neckline just right. And it’s easy to modify if you do find that it gapes a little on you, because let’s face it, our bodies are all unique and we sew so we can customize. 

The peekaboo front was a last minute lightbulb moment when I realized it would be pretty easy to make in a manner very closely related to the square neck. Plus I had that moment of smugness where it’s like- no one does this type of style for petites. An average height version of this would be less peekaboo and more "full show". It’s a fun style that you can whip up quickly for a night out, styled up or in a casual fabric for everyday errands. 

Fabric

The Clover Bodysuit and T-shirt is designed for knit fabrics. The stretchier the better. I put this style into more of the advanced category only because you really need to have a good handle on working with lightweight stretchy knits. Don’t get me wrong, it’s not hard, but you do have to have patience to ensure that nothing gets too stretched out during handling. 

The best type of knit would be anything that is really stretchy, lightweight and drapey. Bamboo knits work great, cotton modal blends are also a good fit. Even a lighter weight spandex would work good- if you are going for that sort of look. I would avoid thick knits like ponte or French Terry. 

Special Trims needed: 

Knit interfacing: The best way to control the neckline shape is with knit interfacing for the facing pieces and the crotch endpoints on the bodysuit view. It’s good to have a little bit of stretch here so it moves with the fabric, but still holds the shape. If you don’t have this in your stash, do not hesitate to buy. It’s the only interfacing I use, even for woven fabrics. The stiff papery stuff does you no favors.

Swimwear elastic for bodysuit view: 

Yes, you can get by with regular elastic, as long as it is not too thick, or even clear elastic tape. But the best results I got were with swimwear elastic and I love it! So worth the sourcing effort. I had never worked with this before, but it’s super simple to apply and the thickness makes it really easy to handle. For the leg construction, it’s best to put in totally flat without stretching. 

I got my elastic from this supplier, who also has some really good video tutorials on using it. 

Snaps for bodysuit view: 

I recommend using something small and low profile since you really don’t want a bunch of metal down here (but don’t worry- the join point is more forward so you don’t have to be a contortionist). 

Sizing

As per the usual SBCC standard, this comes in sizes XXS-4X. It’s a fitted knit style so there are no cup sizes here. I always recommend choosing your size based on your full bust first and foremost as waist and hip alterations are much more manageable.