Monique

Once again I was suckered in by a pretty picture on the pattern envelope.  I also saw a fabulous sample of this dress in Fabric Depot when I was there in March.  I had to have it!  I had to make it! 

The dress is Monique from Sew Serendipity.  I adore the way Kay Whitt combines fabrics into a single garment.  I love the silhouettes she uses.

I will say - this dress is just a smidge too large for me through the bodice and the fabric I used is too heavy for the style.  I used an Amy Butler print that was in the cupboard.  I didn't have a coordinating print to break it up - but it was a muslin. I am hoping it will soften up with washing. 

I am thrilled with the pattern alterations I made to this - I lowered the bust dart by an inch.  I also moved the dart from the waist to the bust toward the side by about half an inch.  With the exception of being just a smidge too large - the fit of the bodice is perfect.

Rather than using the facings - I used bias tape on the neckline and armholes.  I turned the bias tape to the inside leaving it to just peak out at the edges - like piping. 

Verdict - I will make it once more in a thinner, more drapy cotton before I decide. 

Same Ol' Same Ol'

What is that old Orville Reddenbacher saying?   Something about finding something you're good at and doing it over and over?

Don't know what I was doing with my face or my hair, but these were taken late last night.  I had worn the outfit all day and am looking wrinkled.  But that's okay.

The skirt fabric is a printed linen blend.  The pattern is Simplicity 2475 which I have made several times since working through the fitting. 

This version has absolutely nothing interesting about it - except the fabric.  I did use bias tape to finish the lower edge of the facing and the hem.  And I stitched them down with a decorative stitch from my machine.  But - since I was wearing it you don't get pictures.

There is no kick pleats, vents, or anything else to add walking ease, but you know what?  I don't really need it. 

My shoes?  Adorable dr. scholl's.  I now want a handbag this color.  There are a little bit tight around my right litte toe, but the more I wear them the more comfortable they get. 

And in the interest of full disclosure - I'll share the back view JB decided was necessary as I went back in the house.  UGH.  Just when I start feel like I'm looking good.....

Parting Shot:  Poppies.  JB took this photo while we were on Friday Harbor.

Inspired by Bugs? Snug Bugs that is.

Subtitle: Fashion blogger I am not.

A few weeks back, I saw this fabulous outfit that Patty had made.

I adore it - the full print skirt.  The striped tee - heaven.

So - I went out and bought the pattern - it's KS 3637.
I pulled an old cotton out of the cupboard that I had used in the makeover of The Musical One's bedroom

(when she was in 6th grade).

Sample - wearable = bonus.

Then I tried it on.  Ugh!  I hated it.  I feel like it accentuates how wide I am.

I ask JB what he thought - and having learned to be a smart man

he said - wear it and ask your knitting girls.

So, I wore it yesterday and I'm asking you.  What do you think?

Win or Lose?

It definately is fun.