7:19 AM

Artsy Linen Top :)




As temperatures rise, and festivals are planned, in comes plenty opportunities are wear something a little "different".  The fabric I used is a medium weight linen from Fabric Mart that is currently sold out, but I believe will be restocked soon (HERE).

I drafted this top on my dress form after seeing a slightly different inspiration on instagram.  


The bodice was drafted with side and shoulder draping.  The side draping is 12 inches by the measurements from center front to center back.  The shoulder was 5 inches by the length of  a decent drape from the should seam and back to the shoulder seam.  There are 3 straps for each shoulder.  The second and third straps are shorter in length by 2 inches.


The side drapes were cut 2 pieces for each side and sewn together along the longest side with the ends free.  I then presses the pleats.





I cut 2 of every bodice piece and lined the bodice with it self.  I decided to put the zipper in the back but realized I probably could have gotten away with installing an invisible zipper on the side (after the fact of course).  I attached the bodice pieces as well as the side drapes.  






The shoulders were then inserted into the shoulder seams.  



Over all, I am pretty happy with the results.  I later found out the inspiration item that sent me in this direction was made of crepe.  I will definitely be making another one and even some one with sleeves.  This will be one of the items I present in a fall fashion show.  This would be a perfect top to wear to Art Basel right?







Happy Sewing! MUAH!!!

Jenese

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4:39 AM

Spring Essentials Part 1.


I'm not sure what side of the world you are on, but Spring is most certainly no where I am (North East).  I got a late start on my spring wardrobe, so I opted  to make a few key pieces that will not only mix and match with current garments, but give me a great start to the planning of this year's outfits for outings, vacations, as well as the impending warm weather.  

I started this collection of essentials with the an off the shoulder tunic.  Off the shoulder tops, & dresses are on trend this season and I am here for all of it!  The used a chartreuse yellow 100% cotton voile that breaths extremely well for warm weather.   The fabric is sold out, here are some alternate shirting options (HERE) (HERE), & (HERE).  The pattern used is S1613 Cut 1 inch wider around the seam allowances than my normal size extended 6 inches into a curved and slit sides.  Instead of extending the top 4 inches for the elastic casing, I created a separate casing to attach the the top of the tunic.  







Sticking with the theme of spring tops, I created this really quick and easy circle tube top.  I drafted this top using my upper and lower bust measurements along with the same concept as a circle skirt.  The fabric used is a Purple/Coral Poly/Lycra Mesh-like knit.  This fabric is so beautiful, and the pictures do it no justice.  The chameleon effect drew me to this fabric in a major way.  This fabric is no longer available, as it sold out fairly quickly.  Check this beautiful alternative (HERE) & (HERE).  



Both pieces pair well with both jeans, shorts, and long maxi skirts.  I love white jeans, and had them in mind while working on these two.  I paired both outfits with purple heels. 


Next up is a duster.  Spring afternoon and nights can tend to be on the cool side, so why not add a light layer that can be worn all day?  I used the same mesh as my circle tube top white on white to bring out the color.  The pattern I used is M6884 which is a faux wrap dress pattern.  I constructed it as a true wrap dress and only finished the edges of the top and around the neck since this is mesh.  I also created a separate belt for the summer time when I can also used this duster as a cover all for the beach.  2 for 1!







Using the same pattern (M6884) I created a wrap dress with one of my staple fabrics for spring, florals.  I have seen this fabric in a number of retail dresses and had to have it for my own.  The fabric used is a Navy/Mint multi floral print Rayon/Lycra Jersey knit also sold out in very little time.  These ITY and Jersey options will work as a great substitute (HERE), (HERE), & (HERE).
























Lastly is something a little funky!  The pants below were created with love, sweat, and tears on a whim.  I drafted these pants using M6930, eliminating the pockets and the darts, creating a center seam for both the front and back pieces, and inserting a gusset exactly 15 inches from the top of the pants with a 24  inch base to widen the pants dramatically.  



These are not your mother's bell bottoms!  The pants were constructed with a magenta crepe suiting that I have been holding on to for about 2 months.  While I do not like pink as much, I absolutely love the shade of magenta.  This fabric as well is sold out and is why you should stay on top of your Fabric Mart visits!  As an alternative, check out Fabric Mart's linen collection (HERE).  The colors that are available now are vibrant and spring/summer ready!  






















I have a large list of items to create for part two, What essentials will you be creating this season?  

Until next time, Happy Sewing!

Jenese

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