The second Burda issue of 2020 will soon be here! Both the German and Russian sites have posted previews, and I have to say that I am quite excited for several of the patterns in this issue. While I know that I probably won’t make a majority of the styles this month, I actually really appreciate the aesthetic Burda went for and I think this is a pretty great issue.
First up, we’ll look at the coats and jackets:
102 – I think this blazer looks super sharp! I love the classic tailoring details on the collar and the angled buttons on the front. It is possibly not the best style for me to choose for myself, but I do love the combination of details that Burda has chosen to utilize here.
103 – Be still my heart! I’m a total sucker for the asymmetric fitted jackets, and I love the collar on this one! I also really love how it looks in both the suede for a moto-vibe and in the bouclé for a modernized French jacket feel. Also, did I mention that collar? So chic!
120 – Another jacket win! I really love the belt tie for waist emphasis and how this is mirrored in the sleeve detail. It creates lovely gathers that, while they look a bit exaggerated in the line drawing, actually look really great on the model and in the garment photo. This jacket is definitely going high on my to-sew wishlist (which for anyone keeping track is approximately 5 bajillion miles long at this point).
101 – I think this peplum jacket is cute! It reminds me very much of the McCall’s cardigans I couldn’t stop sewing from a few years back, so I’m pretty sure this is a style I can safely not add to my personal sewing list (I ultimately ended up gifting most of those cardigans to a friend), but I do like the lines of this jacket. I think they would look super cute over a pencil skirt!
118 – I think this is maybe not my favorite hoodie pattern from Burda in recent month, but I do like the interesting color blocking/flap design detail. I think it is a feature I’ve seen on RTW recently, and I think it adds to a cool vibe here.
We don’t get a lot of dresses this month, but what we do get is very tailored and structured in a way that seems to be a counterpoint to a lot of the relaxed/shapeless styles recently:
121 – Vintage reprint pattern. It’s gorgeous! I feel like I’ve seen this dress from Burda before, but I wasn’t able to find it in the dedicated Burda Vintage magazines I have. Possibly I have seen an image of the original printed dress somewhere? Difficult to say, but regardless I am very excited to get this design in this issue. While the silhouette of the skirt certainly has a vintage flair, the draping of the top also feels shockingly modern. I love it!
113 – I feel like this vest dress is the next logical progression of the trench dress trend that has been going fairly strong the past few years. I really love the shape the pockets add to this dress, and I especially love the way Burda styled the grey version. I’m predicting that this could be a very popular design.
109 – This dress sort of feels like a 60s throwback? I’m not sure how everyone else feels, but this issue really seems to have a lot of 60s inspiration going on with the color palettes and silhouette styles. I feel like this in one of those dresses that you will either love (because you love 60s style and this sort of skimming the figure silhouette and have great legs to show off because dang it looks short on the model!) or really not like because you don’t really enjoy any of those things. Sadly, I’m in the latter camp, but it doesn’t mean I think this is a bad dress. It’s just not a dress for me.
112 – I wish Burda had made one of these versions in a solid. The wild print at the top does evoke a very 60s/70s vibe for me (yes, I realize these are different decades and styles were different but I means it’s also all sort of a continuum and to me it takes elements of both of the stereotypical styles associated with both of these decades and wow I really shouldn’t each chocolate before typing these review posts because I can’t seem to stop typing…), and I find it really hard to appreciate the lines that look so interesting in the line drawing. Ultimately I think the model photos let me down a bit because the line drawing actually has some really interesting detailing.
We get a lot of tops this month:
111 & 110 – I think this high/low hem top is really interesting, especially the longer version. It’s like wearing a coat with tails but just as a shirt! I think the front looks really short on both models, but I do very much appreciate the button feature at the cuffs, and the diagonal seaming on the front that will give shape to the top. It seems to also feature a hidden button placket, which can be a cool detail to sew.
117 & 116 – I love me a good wrap-over top, and I really like how the gathers are inserted into the raglan sleeves as well. Also, while I normally go for the option without the frills, I actually really like the option with the sleeve ruffles! Might have to dig into the stash and see what I can use for it…
114 – I think this blouse is nice, and the ruffles are a good proportion to the rest of the top. It’s not exactly the most unique style we’ve had from Burda (do I have this in my stash? Let me count the ways…), but it’s a nice option to have in this issue, since it will pair well with a lot of basics.
115 – Ok, I really like this super basic v-neck top and I’m not sure why! I think it’s just my need for basic tops I can wear to work. I mean, there’s really nothing super exciting here (unless the thick elastic sleeve cuffs are a super fun detail to you), but my brain is like, yes, we need that. Ok brain – calm down.
119 – This sweater top has some nice details in the sleeves and with the super wide collar, but personally if I’m going to wear warm cuddly things, I sort of want them to cover my arms? I mean, I’m also envisioning this styling possibilities of wearing this over a long sleeved shirt with a mini skirt and tights and like, ok, year it would be really cute, but definitely not something I would wear myself. So I’m going to give this another mark of “cute, but not for me.”
There aren’t as many bottom options this month, but we at least get a range of silhouettes:
107 & 108 – This skirt isn’t particularly new or innovative, but it is a nice style that would work with a variety of tops and in a variety of fabrics.
106 – I can’t say that I really like these pants, but at least they aren’t boring! I do like the long welt pockets, and the seamlines do provide some interesting opportunities to play with top stitching. I will say I find the silhouette more appealing in the khaki version as opposed to the light blue… There might be something very particular to the styling of these pants that will either push them into the dowdy or cool categories….
105 & 104 – Just your good old basic wide legged trouser with elastic waistband. Burda’s given us many version over the years, but it’s always good to have one of these in the stash if you don’t already. They can kind of go the distance from making PJs to work trousers and anything in between depending on fabric choice. So, while maybe not exciting, it’s not the worst option to pair with all of the many tops we also get this month.
The Burda Plus section this month looks like Burda jumped over spring and is heading directly into summer:
122 – Ok, can I just say that I really love this blazer? I think the lapels are super cool, and I love that is has the partial lining. Super cute! It looks like it has some pretty simple lines, and only a half lining, so it should be quick to put together too!
124 – Not the most exciting shirt dress pattern we’ve ever seen, but I do think that Burda has done a nice job of sprucing it up using the mix of chevron stripes in a nice bright color palette.
125 – I think this shirt pattern is much the same – not bad, just not overly exciting.
123 – I do rather like the drape of this top though. I think it looks great on both of the models, and I think the neckline treatments are nice subtle details.
126 – From the line drawing I would have said that this top looks far too wide, but I think that it looks pretty great on the model since it drapes so well.
127 – These cropped pants look so ready for the beach! I think Burda has done a marvelous job of utilizing the stripes here. It’s basic, but effective.
The kids section this month is a pretty bland assortment of girls clothes:
128-131 – Practical looking kids clothes, but nothing overly exciting. And nothing for the boys this month I’m afraid.
And with that it’s time to pick the Best of BS for February 2020! While there are several strong contenders this month, I think I have to be utterly predictable and give it to:
The super chic moto jacket! I think Burda has done a great job of giving us a pattern that will work in a lot of different fabrics, and can be quite versatile in a wardrobe! It was a tough choice between this pattern, the super tailored blazer, the soft trench jacket, and the vest dress because I feel like that could become one of those iconic Burda pieces that like everyone wants to sew. Lots of good stuff. But I felt that the complexity of the pattern draft for this one bumped it up a notch to the top spot this month!
However, I’m also going to have to give a shoutout to the Vintage reprint dress as well because it is stunning:
I mean, yeah. How could we not?
Choosing the bottom pattern for the month was a bit tougher, as there really weren’t any truly terrible options this time around. I feel like Burda hasn’t given us a real doozie in a while, which is some sense is good, but also not as much fun. Anyway, all ramblings aside, I’ve decided to give the BWTF for February to:
The puffy blue pants! I don’t know… Maybe it is something about the color or the styling here but it just feels a bit… off? I don’t have the same reaction to the other version, so it could just be a general styling thing, but of everything in the issue this was the only pattern that really made me take pause.
And that’s it! Another month of Burda soon to be in the wild. I can’t say that I’m personally super excited for this issue as a whole, despite liking a lot of the designs. It’s sort of a case where I feel like it’s more of an inspirational issue for me, as opposed to a practical one? I mean, I really like a lot of the designs, but I honestly know that I wouldn’t really wear most of them. I do think I have a few to keep on my radar though; that vintage dress and trench jacket are especially high up there. And I really like some of the tops as simple options for wardrobe basics that could could be quick to sew up. So overall I think this is a pretty decent month. But what do you all think? Are you excited for any of these designs? Or does this month feel like it has too random a mix of tailored pieces and breezy summer looks? Feel free to discuss it all in the comments!
Doctor T Designs 
I’m always looking for interesting tops since simple tops and pants/shorts are my main wardrobe. Sadly, I am not a fan of any of these. I do love that vintage dress. It is simply gorgeous. I’ve seen the asymmetric moto-jacket enough times to make it not a novelty to me. I find the hoodie with the “flap” sort of interesting. Am wondering if underneath a mesh panel could be used for circulation. I find it interesting. I don’t subscribe to Burda but I purchased a copy of Jan 2020 because I just thought it was amazing. I won’t be looking for this one.
Thanks again for your review. You always make me look at patterns with a different eye.
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Brilliant review as always. I love the look of this issue and can’t wait to get it. I want all of the jackets and that vintage dress is definitely going to be my wedding guest dress for this year.
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Ooooh yes!
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Not a bad issue. I can see a few things I would make for myself. I also like the plus size jacket and dress but as a size 38 no good for me. Although it’s not something I’d wear myself I do like the V neck top with elasticated sleeves. I can see I’ll be making this for my daughter in a lightweight linen and probably slightly cropped.
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Oooo looks like an issue worth keeping on top! Love the moto jacket (would it look ok on a tall person?), and especially love the 120 jacket! I’d leave off the sleeve ties, but am in total love with the jacket – it has a bit of a trench feel to it. I’ve yet to sew a wrap top, but the one in this issue might get me to try it, it looks very wearable and not too difficult. My favorite too might be the 110/111 high/low shirt… LOVE it. Would lengthen the front a teensy bit but otherwise I’d totally sew this – number 1 for sure on my list to try. It looks wearable, not too ordinary but not over the top, but at the same time could look very classy as shown (the long version) in white and then add a black “tie” or back ribbon-tie for a special occasion. I’m there.
Really like the 107-108 skirts but my skirt list is pretty long already, lol… And may I admit I kinda like the puffy pants? The seams are different, and it looks like it could be a comfy pattern for travel, and maybe forgiving in the fit department for sewing pants for the first time… (I’m terrified of trying but would like to). O and the hoodie is cute too… (it would never work, but I want to try a cosplay outfit of Elliot Alderson)(and yes I cried just a bit at the end of the final episode)
Was so happy to see your review this fine Saturday morning – thanks for this!
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Yeah, I mean, to be fair I don’t really mind the puffy pants. I just feel like out of everything in this issue they would be the one thing that miiiiiiiight not turn out the way someone intended. I am, of course, waiting for the internet to prove me wrong as it so often does 😉
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You are surely right! They probably would turn out wrong…
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Not necessarily; I’m thinking it more of a style thing… like if you love them I think you’ll like the result but if you think “I’m taking a risk” it might not be what you wanted at the end? I do think your thoughts about ease of fitting are good though; they definitely wouldn’t be as hard to fit because of the relaxed shape.
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Ah yes, very true. Perhaps trying on a style similar to them in a shop first would be a good idea. (y)
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I love a lot of these patterns! I wish they had done the vintage reprint dress in a solid so we could see the details a bit better. The line drawing looks amazing. The double-breasted blazer is perfection, if only I needed such a thing. Dress 112 is fantastic – I have a weakness for a front inverted pleat – but again, it’s difficult to gauge with all that print. The high low shirt looks beautiful from the front, but I will have to look at the line drawing of the back to see what’s really going on there. I wouldn’t want it sticking out like a big bubble. The wrap top is a big yes – my favorite wrap has side gathers and I’ve been looking for one with shoulder gathers – here it is!
Thanks for another in-depth and entertaining review!
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Love the review and the patterns. I know several conductors who would love the longer option in 110 & 111, but are likely to want to lengthen the front hem somewhat.
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#119 must be a reprint of burda easy 2/2017 3C, and I believe that I recognize 115 from burda easy too. I don’t mind the overlap between the envelopes and the magazine but between burda style and burda easy… At least take it from a few more years ago!
Other than that, you do a great job reviewing and I strongly disagree with you on several patterns 😀 (including burda wtf). It’s very nice to have a fresh perspective on things! But when my magazine arrives (the end of February) I will be tracing a hi lo hem to wear with my self conscious jersey pencil skirts! And maybe some nice basics from the plus section for my flamboyant natural mother.
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I had decided NOT to buy any more magazines before taking time out to make something from last years (still waititng for the January issue to become available here in Scandinavia) but the wrap top 117/116 AND the shirt top 110/111(long verion) will be hard to resist. I want to find out how they have done the “cover” of the elastic waistband in 105 – the patterned version – too as I mostly wear that kind of trousers these days but for a shirt like 111 I need a neater finish.
Thank you once again for doing a review of Burda magazine and all the very best for 2020 – hope it will be a good year for you
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That cover dress is magnificent! They chose an excellent fabric to showcase the pattern, too, which isn’t always the case.
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I am SO here for the February issue! I was kind of meh on January but February got me excited and I need it nowwwwwwww lol!!!
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Really like several things. Vintage dress is drool worthy. Maybe I’ll be lucky and her tye lone copy they sell at my second further Joanns. I really enjoy your review and reading the comments of what other like.
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Thank you again for a great review.
I have a question for you, as I consider you The Expert on all things Burda.
Is it just me or is the new Burdatyle.com website completely fecking useless? The patterns are in no particular date order, the newest one that I could find before I lost interest is June 2019. There is a question here, has anyone you know ever bought a pattern from the German website (which is so much better I might be willing to learn German), and translated the instructions through Google translate?
Thank you!
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Yeah I haven’t used the US Burda site in ages, and it only got worse with the update. I ordered from the German site once and didn’t have issues; the French site is also good. Also using Google Chrome with Translate turned on is the most magical thing on the internet.
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I think the styling of the blue pants definitely contributes to the frumpiness. pairing those pants with dad sneakers, that belt, AND a fuzzy sweater? i feel like all she needs is one of those ugly colorblock 90s windbreakers to complete the mess.
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😂
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I enjoyed your review as always but why did Burda style the lovely biker jacket in such flimsy fabric, it’s meant to be February??? I liked the shaping of the Plus size blazer but where are the pockets? Unless they are concealed you couldn’t even keep a tissue in that blazer:):):) For me pattern 124 looks matronly with a grandad collar, the shirt version isn’t too bad, the tops would make good artist smocks for me with the fullness and are they having a laugh with the cropped beach pants unless it’s Resort Wear! Having said that I would lengthen the pants and appreciate they have pockets. Men get plenty of pockets in RTW but we girls are often ignored and get no inside pockets unless we go for hiking jackets. Sometimes it’s good to ditch the shoulder/tote/handbag and liberate yourself!!!!!
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The blazer is really easy – it must be for beginners….and it is unlined, so only wearable in spring. I will probably make it but i will add pockets, because, as you said, you do need somewhere to put your tissue in, or the bus pass!
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Yay pockets!
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Oh, I just signed up for 2 free Burda issues (campaign special!) and I hope this will be one of them. Should be, logically. I love some of the looks here and will definitely use them. What can I say, I love me some style lines, but what I usually wear is basics, so it will be a good addition for my collection of those.
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Do you know how long it takes for the magazine patterns to appear on the website as pdf downloads? (I stopped subscribing for a while till I make some of my Burda backlog but there are always a pattern or two in the new issues that I’d like to acquire.)
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I’m not positive but I’m pretty sure they show up within 2 weeks-1 month after the announcement. At least on the German site. I’m not sure about the US site because they “fixed” it and now I can’t find anything on it at all…
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You are quite right, the white trousers is not very pretty. It might be better if it were made from slightly stiffer fabric. Just saying.
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Hmmm yes that could help!
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I’m loving this one, especially the puffy trousers! Not in the light blue fabric though, I’m with you on that. The moto jacket, the trench jacket, and the high-low shirt are all great. And although the vintage dress isn’t me at all I can appreciate the detail. Gah, my to sew list just got longer 🙂
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I Just picked this up today. I think my favourite thing (as in most likely to be sewn for me/my life) is the Plus Blazer.
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The striped blazer, style 122, is it called a Morris blazer by any chance?
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The Morris blazer is a pattern by Grainline Studio patterns. Burda doesn’t name their patterns as far as I am aware.
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where can i buy the magazine?
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Much better issue then January 2020. Here in Australia I just received my January issue but looking forward to February. Thank you for your wonderful reviews, I look forward to reading them each month.
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