Cool for the summer

It's getting hot, y'all.

We had really, really pleasant weather this winter (sorry, northerners).  But it looks like it's over.  All of a sudden we're back in the 80s, and I assume the humidity is not far behind.  So it's time for me to focus on summer clothes.  And like I mentioned on the post about my last Alder, it is the perfect pattern for hot summers.

I bought this fabric at my favorite fabric store last summer.  It's seersucker in a pretty navy with a lovely print of little apples.  Although fruit prints are totally in right now, this is actually a vintage fabric.  They only had about 1 3/4 yards of this left, and I snapped it up.

Because of fabric limitations, I knew I was looking at a sleeveless or short sleeved blouse.  But I wanted something with a little interest.  This fabric deserves it!  So I decided to shorten the Alder dress into a top.  I also made it a v-neck as I didn't have enough fabric for a collar and stand.  I didn't even have enough for pockets!  I ended up having to piece the inside yoke together from two pieces and used another fabric for the armhole binding too.  This was some serious pattern puzzling.

I wanted to exaggerate the high-low hem on the Alder a bit.  It turned out that I exaggerated it a little TOO much, as I ended up chopping about 4-5 inches off the back once I tried it on.  It's still a big difference, but the before was almost costumey.

I.  Love.  This.  Shirt.  This is my favorite thing I've made in a while.  Alder is such a fun pattern to sew.  I love doing the back yoke, I love turning the corner on the gathered section, I love the button bands.  It's just an all around great pattern.  I finished this one up on Friday afternoon, and I've worn it 3 times in the last 4 days.  So I'd say it's a success!

Project:  Apple Seersucker Alder Blouse
Pattern:  Grainline Alder
Fabric:  vintage seersucker print

Foxy Lady Dress

In general, I gravitate toward fit and flare dresses. I just think they suit my lumpy triangular body shape the most. But as soon as I saw the Cashmerette Appleton pattern, I knew I wanted to give it a try. A pattern drafted specifically for plus sizes, with different cup size options? Yes please!

I was already thinking about purchasing it, and then I saw the kits available on the website. I really loved the one with the black sheer polka dot sleeves. But the fox print seemed more me, and like something I would wear more often. 

Overall, this pattern was simple to sew. I think the only change I made was blending between sizes and using an extra long tie. I just like longer toes so I can make nice bows!

I did all the construction on my serger and then used a twin needle for around the neckband and hems. I used wonder tape for the first time with this dress and I'm hooked. It makes hemming knits a breeze!

I was very pleasantly surprised at how good I looked in this silhouette. I think the low cut is really flattering and brings the focus to my face. 

I've since used this pattern to make a Christmas gift for my cousin who is having a baby in a couple of months! It's perfect for a growing belly.

The only issue I have with this dress is the fabric. When it stretches (and this pattern is designed to stretch over your chest), you can see the white substrate. Not what I want on my boobs. 

I have lost a bit of weight since making this, so it's not as much of an issue. But I would size up if you're using a fabric with similar issues. 

Project: foxy lady dress

Pattern: Cashmerette Appleton

Fabric: fox jersey, bought as a kit

And here's the last and best picture. I hit the button too soon!

Cat Lady Dress

Some sewers are the type that see a pattern, love it, and look for fabric that will work. I am the opposite. I see fabric, buy it, hoard it, and the search for a pattern that will work. 

I saw this fabric online and it just called to me. It didn't hurt that it's called Cat Lady (although there are no actual cats involved. Bummer). Within minutes I had a cut of it purchased and on its way to me. 

What I loved was the black and white with pops of cobalt. It felt like a very sophisticated take on a floral. It's a rayon, with a great hand, but not terrible to work with. It does fray like a bitch though. 

I paired it with Vogue 1395. This is a new favorite for me. It is a big fabric hog though! I had 3.5 yards of the fabric and it was barely enough. So what takes such a huge amount of fabric?

It has WINGS!

Well, it has a back overlay with wing like things that come around to the front and tie. One thing to keep in mind is that the wrong side of the fabric will show when you tie it. So you can either use a fabric that's similar on both sides, or do what I did. 

I just cut a piece that mirrored the tie, going back far enough that it wouldn't be visible, sewed them right sides together, turned it out, and top stitched. Easy peasy. 

For technique, I used French seams everywhere, added a lot of top stitching, and did a rolled hem on the skirt. The instructions called for double stitching at all the seams for some reason. I figured French seams were a better option. I did like the bias binding and the front bodice construction. 

I also loved this little gathered detail on the back bodice. Overall this is a great dress with some fun details. I can see myself making it again and again. I'm going to see if I can figure out a way to make it with a single layer back so it doesn't take quite so much fabric. 

I lined the skirt with some black China silk. It feels very luxurious. 

My only complaint is the length. I'll add an inch or two next time I make it. But I do love a dress that shows off my tattoos. 

And I'll leave you with this last and best picture. The true Cat Lady picture. 

Project: Cat Lady Dress

Pattern: Vogue 1395

Fabric: Cat Lady Rayon