MYSTYLE: Butterick 5789: Draped Vest

Another quick and easy make.  This took me from cut to finish maybe an hours.  It is just a cute little est that I throw on over a tank and some jeans when I need a quick fix or a Tshirt dress and add a belt.  

Pattern Deets:

1.   Butterick 5789

2.   I used Plaid Woven  (Pattern calls for a two way knit only)

3.   I graded the pattern 2 inches to compensate for the woven fabric 

Happy Sewing!

MYSTLE: Butterick 5837: Gathered Bottom Maxi Skirt

Sometimes I want really easy sewing projects.  I wanted something I could throw over my head and keep moving.  This pattern fits the bill.   I made this dress using a very stretchy Jersey Knit.  I was the perfect weight and color for this project. 

I could wear a belt for more of a finished look or just be cool and comfy wearing it loosely.  Either way it can be dressed up or down depending on the look your going for.

Pattern Deets:

1.   Butterick 5837

2.   I used a JerseyKnit 

3.   I self lined top and finished the hems with a coverstitch machine

4.   I add about 2 inches too the side seams of the bottom for fullness with gathers

5.   I would recommend as it is a very quick and easy pattern

Happy Sewing!

MYSTYLE: New Look 6519: Kimono Sleeve Top

I absolutely love the simplicity of this top.  I am really starting to like these simple New Look patterns. They make, making a garment quick and simple with several variations to receive different looks . It was such a quick make I was not even going to post about it.  But I decided to do a quick post because the color popped and the fabric is heavenly.  It's a Techno textured knit.  It is a 4 way stretch that I picked up at Fine Fabrics in Atlanta.    The Fabric is so soft.  

I could literally see a closet full of these tops.  You can dress them up or down, it really is a great wardrobe staple.

Pattern Deets:

1.   New Look 6519

2.   I used a Techno Knit with texture

3.   I hemmed the bottom and sleeves using my coverstitch machine

4.   I added 3 inches to the belt tie so that it could wrap around my body, the pattern makes for it to tie only in the front of the top. 

5.   I also didn't use any facing, I just hemmed the cut edges. 

Happy Sewing!

MYSTYLE: Detachable Peplum Belt

I was asked to participate in a competition with "That Sewing Blab", a Face Book sewing community.  There contest is a 3 Round competition where you receive a mystery item and you have to incorporate it into a garment.   The applique in the pictures was the mystery item.

When I received it, I wasn't sure waht to do with it as it was little large.  I didn't want to just place it on a top or jacket, it is very beautiful, these pictures does it no justice.  So I decided to make me a Peplum Belt, I had saved several peplum belts on my Pinterest board previously so I had some inspiration to work with.   

My belt was self drafted and I used the Applique as a closure.  I made a 4 inch waistband and a made two half circles that I pleated in the front and back.  It was a quick make, and I love the way it came out.  Oh and I won the first challange.


Happy Sewing!

MYSTYLE: McCalls 6084 - Cardigain in Forest Green Ponte Knit

Working on adding some simple but effective pieces to my wardrobe.  This cardigan was very easy to make, about an hour and half from cut to hem.  

I needed something to wear to my Husband's co-worker birthday dinner party which was held at a restaurant.  I always freeze at restaurants, so I new I wanted to wear sleeves, but didn't want to have to put on a jacket or something heavy.  It was a beautiful night and the weather was cool but not cold outside.  

I have had this pattern in my stash for awhile, and I have always wanted to make it and never got around to it.  I got off from work on Friday, and whipped this baby up about an hour before we were due to leave the house.  Gave me plenty time to shower and  fix my face (picutres don't show it though, tee-hee).

              

Pattern Deets:

1.   McCalls 6084 

2.   I used a Ponte Roma Knit (my favorite choice of knit fabrics)

3.   I hemmed the bottom and sleeves using my coverstitch machine

4.   I cut about 3 inches off of bottom, as the pattern is long and I wanted more of a top than cardigan look 

5.   The pattern doesn't call for it but I made a sash/tie for a different look (didn't use the tie on this particular night) 

Happy Sewing!

Tie Neck Side Slit Floor Length Tunic

This is a piece I made for a very good friend.  Its a design by my very good friend Shari of mydailythreadz.  She also has a tutorial and video on how to achieve this look using McCalls 6650 which is an out of print McCalls pattern.  This is one of my TNT patterns, and I have used it for dresses and tops. 

I have made this piece for myself and others several times.  I am in love with anything with a Pussy Bow.  The fabric is from Joanns and its a light scuba type knit.  It works very well for this particular design. 

I payed special attention to matching up the plaid pattern, something I normally frown on. But it was not hard at all. 

Happy Sewing!

MYSTYLE: Simplicity 1366 - Camisole - Silver Blue

I love this Silver Blue Camisole.  Though the picture looks more silver than blue, it is actually a lovely blue.  Can you ever have enough?  I don't think I can.  I have made several and intend to make several more.  My life will be complete when I have them in every color.  The are perfect for suits, and over cute skirts and jeans.  Very date night easy.

Happy Sewing!

MYSTYLE: McCalls 7601 - Tie Neck Hi Lo Sleeveless Top

Now this will be one of my favorite tops fore sure.  I enjoyed making this and I can't wait to make a few more in solids to wear under a jacket or blazer and or with a cute pencil skirt.  I adore how easy this pattern was and how versatile it is.  I can't get enough of bows around the neck.  

I originally wanted to make this a dress but I was shy about a 1/2 yard of fabric. I think I only had 2 1/2 yards total.  I am almost fifty so I need to leave something to the imagination.  Because I knew I wanted it to be a Hi Lo, also because of how the fabric just flows.  It's a lovely Challis that I purchased from "The Sewing Studio" a lovely fabric shop here in the Central Florida area.  They have some really beautiful fabrics and I couldn't past this by.  

For this photo I paired my top with a pair of skinny jeans and my Steve Madden nude heels.  Really simple but cute.  Ready for whatever. 

Happy Sewing!

MYSTYLE: New Look 6378 - Animal Print Kimono

I really don't have to say much about this outfit . Its a Kimon and it can be paired with almost anything.  I paired it with a simple white tank top, and Ponte Knit skinny pants that I also made.  New Look 6738 is an awesome pattern and I see several more in my future.  

The fabric is a Rayon Challis that I thought I purchased from Fabric Mart but realised later that I purchased it from an Etsy Fabric Store some time ago.  I don't even remember the name. 

My shoes are a few years old by Carlos Santana.  Hope you like my Kimono, I sure do. 

Happy Sewing!

MYSTYLE: Simplicity 8379 - SIDE DRAPE SUMMER DRESS

What an awesome summer dress made of a Jersey Knit fabric from Fabricmart.com.  Another fabric that has been sitting in my fabric stash for awhile.

The dress to make was  Eazy Peazy from cut to sew to include hemming about an hour and half.  Just that simple.  I can see a closet full of these really easy dresses.   They are perfect for vacationing as they don't wrinkle.  I can grap it go.  Add a cute pair of sandals or tennis shoes and I'm off.



Sorry for the blurry pics.  I am working on doing better with the photography.

Happy Sewing.

Client Sewing Showcase

I normally don't showcase my client work.  I try to use my blog for all of my self sewing to keep me accountable and working to improve my wardrobe. But I've been super busy with client work I haven't had much time for self sewing. 

I've working on wedding alterations and client work over the past couple of months .  I decided to do a quick showcase of some of the client work I've done over the last couple of months. The bottom Middle was my favorite as it was for a very special person.  The fabric was an authentic African fabric gifted to her from a student who was from Africa.  It was about yards of Panels, so I had to take extra care to get the panels to line up and balance out the blouse. She wanted a Pussy Bow so I made sure to make it extra large to give her the little pop she was looking for. She absolutely loved it.
Except for the Pussy Bow blouse, I got first fits on all without making an fit adjustments, love when that happens:

Quick Review and Patterns I used: 

Top Left:  No pattern self drafted

Top Middle:  Franken Patterns:  Top - McCalls 7601, Bottom - Simplicity 8093, modifications:  I added an inch to waist of bottom and only one pleat per section on bottom. 

Top Right:  Simplicity 1099, no modifications

Bottom Left:   McCalls 7601, no modifications

Bottom Middle:  McCalls 6650, my favorite TNT for this type of top, modifications:  contoured waist and hips and added a side zipper on left side and enlarged the bow at ends. 

Bottom Right:  No patterns self drafted

There are many more, that was sewn in last few months, but this first set are my notable mentions.

Here a few more:  

Happy Sewing!

MYSTYLE: MCCALLS 6078 - SUMMER WORK WEAR

When I say easy peasy.  I mean from cut to hem and finishing an hour tops.   This is as simple as it gets.  Oh please disregard the freaking band aid on my arm.  I had to give blood on this particular day and didn't realize before my photo I didn't take the darn thing off.  

The fabric is a remnant, and I think I only had about a yard and a half from The Sewing Studio here in Maitland, FL.   It has sat in my stash for a couple of years, and I originally purchased it to make an infinity scarf.  I needed something to wear to work one morning so I whipped this baby up in about 30 minutes.  The pattern had already been cut, since I have used this pattern several times its one of my favorite TNT's.  

The Pants I made some time ago.  They are made of a Linen Blend and just a simple pair of pants with elastic waist, and strawstring.  

Happy Sewing!

MYSTYLE: McCalls 7382 - Summer Work Wear

I'm so in love with dress.  The fabric is a really soft Challis from Fabricmart.  I purchased the fabric some ago and wasn't sure what I was going to do with it, because it was very busy.  I though a nice pair of Palazzo pants or wrap skirt.  I didn't imagine initially it could be a dress let alone a long flowy dress.  The fabric was just way to bsuy for me. 

I actually went against the grain on this one literally, I mean the pattern called for a Knit, but I decided to give it a try with this fabric.  I really didn't know how it would turn out, but thank goodness it turned out even better than I expected.  

Quick Review:  McCalls 7382:

Was it Easy:  Very
Modifications:   I used a challis instead of a Knit
Sizing:   True to size (I went up a size because of the non-stretch of the fabric).
Would I Make Again:  Definitely
Do I recommend:  Highly
Notes:  This is definitely and TNT for me.

Happy Sewing!

MYSTYLE: McCalls 9147 and Simplicity 1104 - Summer Work Wear

As some of you may know I am a Florida girl born and raised.  Though being in the Military afforded me an opportunity to live in some very interesting places, to me there is really no place like home. Florida weather especially summers can be HELL on earth, I love that I can wear cute tops and sandals almost year round. But for office wear I need cute tops that I can transition into every day life. 

I was working on making myself some tops because of course you can never ever ever have enough of them.  I also made the pants and paired them with these cute pair of orange pumps for a pop of color.

Happy Sewing!

MYSTYLE: Simplicity 8216 - Summer Work Wear

My Wardrobe is in desparate need of updating.  I need lovely, simple chick dresses for this hot Florida weather.  When I first go this pattern my thought was to make the top, because of course I could never have enough tops.   But after looking at the pattern for awhile, then cutting it out, I knew exactly what fabric I would pair with it andthat it would be my first spring dress.  

The pattern comes together very easy, and the fabric was a nice rayon challis from Fabricmart.com.

I paired it with a faux leather Obi Belt I made some time ago.   Here is the styled look:

The only modification I made was to lengthen the pattern two inches, and omit the elastic casting at the waist.  

Happy Sewing!

This was on my vision board to do early in January, but with obligations and life situations I never got to it.  I was deteremined to atleast get it cut out and started.  Who knows when it will be done, but I am hoping within the next week or so.  

I always try to get a pattern cut and started, that way I am forced to look at it constantly and reminded that I have posted about it, so I need to get it complete.  

I really like the lines and style of this pattern.  The fabric I chose is floral  lawn form Fabricmart.com. I have actually had it my stash for over a year.  This fabric was originally going to be used to make a spring clutch purse, and that this why I only purhased 2 yards.  This pattern requried a little over 2 yardsfor the size I cut, but as always manage to make it fit.  Wooo and I mean I had no room for error. 

Progress Pictures: 

It is coming together nicely so far, even though the insruction and pattern pieces seem to be a little more than required for the button plackard, Once it is complete I will do a quick review.  I am really liking how it is coming out and excited about finishing it up and styling, so stay tuned. 

Happy Sewing!

Sewing for Others: Poodle/Circle Skirt, McCalls 4463 from 1989.

Black Taffeta Circle Skirt made for a client.  I used a McCall poodle skirt pattern, McCalls 4463 from 1989 and modified it to add pockets and a back zipper as the pattern called for side zipper.





Happy Sewing!

Sewing for Others: McCalls 6552 Jumpsuit (Nah Two Piece)

My favorite cousin is attending a wedding and she is the least person to go shopping for anything.  So when she came to me for an outfit for her friend’s wedding, I was more than eager to oblige.  Her style is simple but elegant.  She doesn't do a lot of out the box or trendy styles, she's comfortable when she can move and enjoy herself with as less fuss as humanly possible.  

I had her go through my hundreds of patterns to find something that she would like.  We picked out several but finally we both decided that this particular pattern would give her everything she wanted.   This pattern is actually a jumpsuit, but she doesn't do jumpsuits so I modified it to make it two piece set.  

McCalls 6552:

The jacket is made of a really pretty stretch lace fabric from Joanns.  The body of the garment is a metallic/Silver performance knit.   The only modifications I made were to lengthen the top a few inches and add an inch to the top of the pants to account for waistband, since this is a jumpsuit pattern to make it a just a top and pantsuit.    

This pattern has actually been on my list to make for myself for awhile.  I just had never gotten around to it.  I love the different pant styles and I will do a jumpsuit in a heartbeat for mself.  I'm still going to make it for myself one day soon. 

Happy Sewing?

Camoflauge Gathered Skirt and Lace Ruffled Strap Tank

Isn't it ironic, I was in the military for 8 years and I despised wearing fatigues/camouflage.  I had to wear fatigues/camo every single work day.   They were the most hideous uniform for a women especially, and they were heavy and not complimentary to your body.  I know that there is a reason for that, your taught your a soldier first and a women second.  

But fast forward, 23 years later I am in love with camouflage.  This gathered skirt made with fabric from Walmart believe it or not is one of my favorites.  I can't wait to make it in a Midi.  I don't really do Maxi's but I absolutely love Midi's.    

Happy Sewing!

MYSTYLE: Happy Friday Cigarette Pants - Simplicity 1371

I love a cute pair of Cigarette pants, and add some cute heels and top and you have a jazzy outfit.  I made these pants several months ago.  I love them to I can casual them up on or down.  The Cigarette pant is prefect for my body style.  Not much booty but a curvy hip helps give me a silhouette.

I paired my Cigarette pants with a simple white tank top and sleeveless cardigan I made years ago. The pumps are chose are from Goodwill and they are too a couple years old, I don't even know the brand.  

Another Styled option.  With a Dolman Sleeve top I made with Slit sleeves and matching pumps. The pumps are thrifted as well. 

 Happy Sewing!

MYSTYLE: When In Paris Skirt.

I have fallen in love with skirts all over again.  There, for a very long time, I wouldn't wear skirts.  Not sure why I gave up on them, I guess I just went through a frumpy phase and only wanted to put on pants.

This particular skirt was made with fabric I found at Walmart.  Yes, for $1.00 a yard.  Its very light and I did not line.  I added pockets, because, I add pockets to everything.  I need pockets in my life always.  The skirt is pleated with an invisible zipper.  I paired my "When in Paris Skirt" with a sleeveless cross body top and denim bolero.  My shoes are nude pumps by Jessica Simpson.

Happy Sewing!

McCalls 7441: My Christmas Party Cardigan

Ok I found my favorite Cardigan.  I am just now blogging about this cardigan, but it was made in December and especially for my Christmas Party at work.   It came out even better than I had expected it too. The fabric was such a nice compliment and I can wear it year around in my very cold office on most days.   I paired it with my white jeans, a simple black tank top, and my red suede side zip peep toe boots.  

Here is a view of the back  As  you can see it flows very nicely.

Quick Review:  McCalls 7441:

Was it Easy:  Very
Modifications:   None
Sizing:   True to size (I went down a size because of the stretchy of the fabric).
Would I Make Again:  Definitely
Do I recommend:  Highly
Notes:  This is definitely and TNT for me.

Happy Sewing!

MYSTYLE: Winter Shorts and Off the Shoulder Top!

We Floridians can break and make our own fashion rules.  Winter Shorts are my fashion rule.  I love to wear shorts, but I wanted some casual or dress up shorts.  I actually made this outfit for someone else from a vision I had for myself. They didn't like it, so I ended up with an outfit I LOVED.  The color is very vibrant and one of my favorites.   

The fabric I used is a lightweight Linen Blend from Joann Fabrics.  It's a mustard color and it flows really nice.  Below is a picture of the details of the shorts, they are pleated in the front and have darts int he back.  The Patterns I used to achieve this look is McCalls 6558 for the top, modified to add fullness and side slits.  I used Simplicity 8093 for the shorts, also modified to shorten the length of pants to shorts. 

I am very pleased with how the outfit came out and I  styled it two ways to show how I could wear it. The first look is with my Brown Suede Lainee D'Orsay Merona Pumps form Target and a thrift braided belt.  For my second look I paired my outfit with a thrift braided leather belt and my Vince Camuto Fermel' Slouch Tassel Boots.  

Happy Sewing!

Day to Night Dress Challenge

I was so happy when Elizabeth of Elizabeth Made This contacted me and asked me to be a part of this challenge.  I have had a crazy few months with health issues and other pressing matters, I needed something to get me focused and back into my sewing Mojo so this challenge was just what I needed. 

Please go to her page to get more information about the challenge and others who are participating, and find out how you can participate as well.  

NIGHT DRESS:

My Night/Evening dress is a sheath dress with keyhole opening at chest, neckband and sleeveless made with a textured stretch black Crepe from Joann Fabric. The Pattern I used is a vintage pattern McCalls 1031,by Designer Geoffrey Beene from 1968, which happens to be the year of my birth. So this pattern is almost 50 years old. I have such a love for anything Vintage.  I made no modifications to the pattern.  It was a one size pattern, so the fit was perfect.  I am very pleased how it came out and can't wait to wear it. I didn't want to take away from the elegance of the dress so I kept my accessories simple and my Vintage patent leather pumps were a perfect match.

I definitely see myself wearing this to a special event or after cocktails .

DAY DRESS:

My Day/Work/Play dress is another McCalls pattern, McCalls 7119 from spring of last year I think.  I picked this pattern because of the Raglan sleeve detail.  I have always loved this type bodice because it helps camouflage my rather large bust, I think so anyway.  The fabric I chose is a Rayon Challis from Fabricmart with a small geometric design thought.   I made no changes to the pattern at all.  I paired it with my suede brown boots and gold chain necklace.  

This dress is perfect for a day in the office, running errands, and or having brunch with friends.  

Happy Sewing!!!