Stellaaaaaaaaaaaaa!!  As soon as Catherine shared the name of the new pattern she was working on, I only wanted to Streetcar Named Desire the moment.  I can’t help it.  Blame Elaine from Seinfeld for this.  (Enough references for one blog post?  Perhaps.)

But seriously, you might want to shout Stella’s name after you sew up one or two (or five!) of this new pattern from Made for Mermaids.  It’s perfect for sweater weather.

The Mama Stella and Stella patterns are pretty cool because they’re so full of options.  It has a really relaxed fit, but builds into it a bunch of sexy elements that takes something from comfy to ah-mazing.  One of the key points to realize here is that Catherine made it possible to avoid hemming by having banded options for EVERY style.  Short/half/three-quarter/long sleeves that are all banded, a traditional tshirt neckband, and a bottom banded hem.  BAND ALL THE THINGS!

I’ve made three total Stellas so far, but I’m only sharing two so far…because taking photos inside in my nemesis and this was all I could muster.  Plus one that I made matches a new pattern that’s coming out next week with M4M…so I’m saving that for another day of sharing.

First up was the basic-basic version.  Full back, basic front option, with 1/2 sleeves and the tunic length.  Even though this is the “boring” version, I adore it.  I’ve worn this top with a black blazer over it at work and it’s golden.  I love it so much.

I used a rayon-spandex blend for this and I really like how it drapes with the Stella pattern.  Sometimes (when I use fabrics that aren’t necessarily recommended) I regret it immediately.  But this actually worked out and I’m pretty smitten.

Plus.  The neckline?  SO MUCH YES.  I am a huge fan of lower and more open necklines.  And this one is a winner.

The second version I’m sharing has a little more amped up sex appeal to it.  Except I’m wearing it….so I ruined all of the sexy element of it.  Hahah.  Seriously though.  I wanted to use the chair next to the fire and apparently need a lot of help learning how to use props in photos.  OMG.  I’m such a nerd.

Let’s first discuss why this version rocks.  The keyhole back is SO EASY to master, and so on trend.  I generally don’t show my back.  #becausebackfat  But this hits just above the danger zone, and I feel comfortable showing some skin.  Plus, I broke down and started to embrace using bralettes as decorative pieces of clothing, so I can still wear a bra and an open back shirt and I’m not upset about things showing.  Lace just makes everything better, doesn’t it?

Even with an adjusted backside, the front is still perfectly comfy and cozy and relaxed.  Why haven’t you made one of these yet?

I’m super looking forward to making mooooooore of these tops.  I have this sweater knit that is SCREAMING to become a Stella.  Maybe I’ll whip it up tomorrow morning so I can wear it while we are out on our dinner/brewery date with friends.  Why not?  It needs to happen!

**As always, you’ll find some affiliate links scattered within my post, which means I receive a small amount of compensation if you end up purchasing something I’ve recommended.  Thanks for helping to feed my sewing habits!