Additionally, my measurements go beyond the pattern. Thus, I would normally grade up. However, because I didn't know exactly how this would fit, (sometimes fabric stretch does accommodate more sizes) I figured it would be worth trying the pattern out at the top size, XL for 44 - 46" hip. My hip is actually 47-48". Not too far off. Though, my rumpus (as a friend used to call her bum), is a bit rounder than most. So, trying out the XL would be the only way to see if this will fit my body well as is or require modifications.
- Back waist is too low. If I bend, squat or move too much, I may flash too much.
I do not wish to be part of the "butt putty tavern" clan which is a bar where the door was open and when you happened to look while passing by, you caught a glimpse of how very much you could see of the the crack of the patrons behinds. An old friend used to wish she had some putty to could fill the cracks and avoid having to see it."
- The leg opening top of thigh is a little too low for my leg / hip shape.
- The seam where back to crotch is joined is very noticeable. Like WAY noticeable to me. "What is that weird feeling thing that's going on back there?! I do not like the way the seam rubs. Mind, there are several layers going on at that seam (4 layers not counting the elastic. I would, in future, figure out a way to minimize seams and encase them. Though the typical sandwich method may not work for this design.
- The bum is definitely too small. When on my body instead of rounding out the shape between the cheeks, it looks like this photo (bottom left) I found in "The Lingerie Handbook Transform your Body, Transform your Self" By Apsan, Rebecca. Oh that's good to know that not only does it feel too small, but Rebecca confirms the fit is also too small.
This means I will need to grade up and alter the pattern for the above areas. Though, I do think they won't be too severe. It'll be fun to try this with some stretch mesh and see how that fit is. With the single knit, and it being too small, I don't think I could truly test the "non panty line" features of this design.