Tilda Blouse Pattern Review + #SewAprilBlouse Entry

Spring sewing is officially in full swing over here, and this project checked all the boxes for me—lightweight fabric, thoughtful details, and a really fun community challenge to go along with it. When Mari of Sew Happy reached out about collaborating on a free pattern, it felt like the perfect opportunity to jump into something new and share the process with you.

We both decided to make the Tilda Blouse, and it just so happens to line up perfectly with Sew April Blouse- so this is my entry.  Read on or watch here: 

About the Tilda Blouse Pattern

The Tilda Blouse by Maison Fauve is a free woven top with some really beautiful details:

• Pin tucks on the front and sleeves
• Soft, swingy shape with lots of ease through the body
• Round neckline
• Keyhole button closure in the back
• Options for short sleeves or bracelet-length sleeves

It’s one of those patterns that looks elevated thanks to the details, but is still very approachable—especially if you’re newer to garment sewing.

There is also a paid expansion version available with additional neckline and collar options, but I stuck with the free version for this one and was really happy with it.

Why Free Patterns Are Worth Trying

If you’ve ever been curious about a new pattern company, free patterns are such a low-risk way to test things out:

• You can see how their block fits your body
• Get a feel for their drafting style
• Try out their instructions before investing

This was my first time sewing a Maison Fauve pattern, and everything was really clear and easy to follow. The instructions are written in both French and English, so just make sure you toggle to English if needed.

Want Help Getting Started with Garment Sewing?

If you’re newer to sewing and want a solid foundation before diving into projects like this, my Intro to Garment Sewing class walks you through all the essential techniques so you can build confidence and actually enjoy the process.

 Fit and Adjustments

I approached this one the same way I do most patterns drafted for a B cup.

Here’s what I did:

• Selected size based on a 36" upper bust (which corresponds to a 38" full bust for a B cup)
• Did a 2" full bust adjustment (1" per side)

But I didn’t want extra volume everywhere, since this is already a swingy top. So after the FBA:

• I removed that extra width from the waist and hip
• Kept a bust dart for shaping

That gave me the fit I wanted—room where I need it, without adding unnecessary volume.

Let’s Talk About the Fit

When I first tried it on, it definitely leaned a little… maternity.

Not surprising, given the relaxed shape and volume, but it did make me pause for a second.

Tucked in, though? Completely different story.

That’s where this blouse really shines. It instantly looks more intentional and styled, especially with:

• Wide-leg trousers
• Linen shorts
• Anything with a defined waist

I’m seriously considering shortening the hem to a high hip length. I think that would balance the proportions better and make it more wearable untucked or with a casual half-tuck.

Fabric Choice: Why It Matters Here

Fabric really makes or breaks this blouse pattern.

I wanted something that could:

• Hold crisp pin tucks
• Support the sleeve shape
• Still feel light and breathable for summer

I ended up using a lightweight cotton Swiss dot from my stash in the most perfect tomato red. Click ➡️HERE for a similar fabric

It has just enough structure to highlight the details while still draping nicely through the body. A cotton lawn or voile would also work beautifully here, especially if you want a softer, floatier look.

Construction Details I Loved

A few little things that really stood out:

• The pin tucks add such a beautiful, elevated detail
• The sleeve shape has just enough structure to feel special
• The keyhole back is simple but polished

For the closure, I used:

• A crocheted loop (made by hand with buttonhole thread)
• A gold button from my stash

It’s one of those small details that makes it feel a little more custom.

Styling Ideas

This is one of those tops that can easily swing between casual and slightly dressed up depending on how you style it.

I’m planning to wear mine with:

• Linen trousers for an easy summer outfit
• Linen shorts for something casual but polished
• My Closet Core Josephine trousers (the color match is too good)

And if I do end up cropping it, I think it’ll open up even more outfit possibilities.

Final Thoughts

For a free pattern, this one is such a win.

It’s approachable, thoughtfully designed, and gives you a chance to play with details like pin tucks without feeling overwhelming. It also feels like a really nice introduction to French pattern design, especially if you’re drawn to that slightly elevated, detail-oriented aesthetic.

This was such a fun project for #SewAprilBlouse 2026, and I’m already thinking about making another version—maybe with a few tweaks now that I know how it fits.

Also, definitely go check out Mari’s version and her channel—she shares so many helpful sew-alongs.

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