Pattern Review: Allie Olsen Kila Tank

Back during the big indie pattern inclusive sizing dustup of early 2019, many pattern designers pledged to improve their sizes ranges, one of which was Allie Olsen of Indie Sew. Her in-house line of patterns was previously only offered in a fairly restrictive size range, but she has started improving her size range with her very popular Kila Tank pattern. It was a real pleasure to test this pattern for Allie and she made several improvements as a result of the testing process. I am excited to share this pattern with the CSC because it has been a real closet workhorse for me and I now have three versions that I wear all the time.

The new and improved size range for the Allie Olsen Kila Tank is now available in sizes 0-30 and sizes 12 though 30 are now available in a D cup draft.  As we head into the changing seasons, this is a great transition piece for both spring and fall!

Measurements: High Bust – 42″, Bust – 45″, Waist – 42″, Hips – 53″, Height – 5’6″.

Body Shape: Representing team pear!

Pattern Size Used: 18 bust, 22 waist, 24 hip

Alterations: The only change that I made to this pattern was to remove an inch above the armhole/bust on both the front and back pattern pieces as I am very short above the bust. I find the fit through the upper bust and armholes to be quite good, which honestly is no small feat for a pattern this fitted and covering this range of sizes. For my tester version (the darker, striped fabric), I had to make the adjustment after I had already started construction, so the extra length was removed at the shoulder seams. I altered my pattern after that and have taken that length out about halfway between the bust and the shoulder, so my next version fit a little better (the gray version).

Fabric Used: My tester version was in the striped rib knit from IndieSew, my second version was in the Luxe Rib Knit from Indie Sew which is quite pricey, but I did manage to get two tanks out of two yards. Disclaimer: I was provided a discount or purchase allowance for these patterns as a tester and reviewer for this pattern.

Fit: I really like the fit on this pattern. Though I am modeling it by itself to show you all the fit, I haven’t worn it like that yet as it is quite close fitting and thats not really my style (give me a boxy tee any day- I can wear this tank under it to prevent flashing any unwanted skin at work)!

Changes for Future Versions: I have already altered my pattern, and now I have three versions. I have been wearing my three Kila Tanks ALL THE TIME. I love them for sleeping and for layering under shirts. They work both for my work wardrobe (I do a lot of field work as a geologist) and for my casual wardrobe. I know this is the type of tank that a lot of people consider to be a staple in their wardrobe, but it isn’t the type of top I had ever owned before. Now, I think I will keep at least a few of these in rotation at all times. You can see more photos of my striped version on my blog and of the gray version on the IndieSew blog.