Riva — Linen Shirts, Pant and Short, Type - Premium Paper, Single Size - 10 to 16

Matching button-down shirt and shorts sets have been dominating my inspo files since early spring, but I had yet to make one because I just couldn't pin down the perfect patterns to create the *exact* look I was dreaming of. Cue the Riva Pattern Collection. It's comprised of a button-down shirt with either long sleeve or short sleeve options, and trousers with a shorts option. Classic tailored elements such as pleating, sleeve plackets, and double welt pockets really elevate these classic wardrobe staples, so I was excited to dive right into the process of sewing these up.

Riva shirt was my first FS pattern purchase as I was drawn to the style of the back pleat. I have made 3 shirts from this pattern out of FS linen so far. The royal purple signature finish is my favorite. I love some things about this pattern and some things not so crazy about. First off, I love the paper weight of the pattern! So much better than tissue. I wish the ink was colorfast as I pressed some of the pieces with my iron and smeared the print. I know the tube was included but I fold my patterns flat for storage and put the smaller pieces in a plastic sheet protector. It sewed up fairly easy. I found that even with the instruction booklet, the sleeve placket instructions were not real clear. I emailed FS customer support and they told me about the help on line for the placket— it helped— and looks very professional. I was pleasantly surprised that the back pattern piece was full size. After my first shirt, I cut the back pattern piece on the fold-line and made one half a regular (pleat-less) back pattern (which I also made shorter), and now I have two versions for versatility! One with pleat and one without. I love how the collar attaches with a bias strip. That was new to me and I love it! So easy —and no neck facing in the way. What I have found out though, as I wear these shirts is that the weight of the back yoke and pleat tend to make the shirt slip to the back. The shorter pleat-less version helps, but it seems like the shoulder seam should be farther forward to the front? Not a deal breaker by any means. The sleeve is super easy to attach. By my third shirt, they were going together very quickly! I haven't made the pants yet. I will make the short sleeve version next. I miss pockets though, so I'm going to add pockets on the front or side seam next time. I wore one on the plane last week and it worked well as a jacket in the cool air. I love my linen shirts!

The RIVA linen pants are the perfect middle-ground between suit pants and jeans, while still being perfect for getting some boba or cold brew with friends after work. RIVA pants have all the delicate features of suit pants — double welts back pockets, side pockets, covered zipper, waist band. But the double pleats alongside the pockets release all the tension from a pair of formal suit pants into a generously flowing garment. I love the feeling of freedom and relaxation being in wide leg pants. The waistband is definitely the highlight of RIVA pants, the curve and small geometric shapes at the center back give a feel of focus and independence.

I see the Riva as a sophisticated (if done in the right size) trouser that can be worn in a casual, professional, or glamorous fabric for the occasion. I have not as yet gotten to the stage of cutting and sewing a trouser but I saw the value of having a pattern that would serve me well. I thank your pattern creating team and of course the first trouser would be in linen when I get to it. I do have the 4C22 from a previous order

My second pair of the pants is currently on my sewing machine. My first pair are made with IL019 Asphalt FS. Size 6 fit like a glove and they are heaven to wear. I will be making the long sleeved shirt out of IL019 Medieval Blue softened next. I LOVE THIS STORE!