Easy, Breezy Jacket…

If you haven’t noticed, these little jacket/dusters seem to be everywhere. I have seen more than a few and was really inspired to make my own. So, below is my version of this easy, breezy jacket!

I used Simplicity pattern 1318 To make mine.

Simplicity 1318

I completely understand why people love them. They are easy to wear either around the house or out running errands. This pattern is also easy to make. I used a polyester that’s lightweight and has nice movement. It was also an experiment for me since I rarely use silky or sheer fabrics. It’s something I need to do more of. I could use the practice!

This pattern could be lengthened if you wanted to make something duster length like the photo above (both of those are from Target, by the way). And there are some variations on the pattern itself in terms of length and the front band style. This is definitely a pattern I can see myself making again.

Simplicity 1318

Fun Skirt with Vogue 8295

I rarely make something from I fabric that’s just for fun – just because I love the fabric. I did this time! I bought this material last year and knew it would be perfect for some kind of skirt.

This is a stretch pima cotton. And I love that the print goes both directions so you can cut either way.

I used V8295 which is a full skirt (almost a circle skirt) made with only 2 pieces (waistband and skirt).

I used an invisible zipper for closure on this. The only thing that’s missing, in my opinion, are pockets. I may figure out a way to add those next time!

I encourage you to make something FUN for yourself for spring or summer (or anytime).

Life is short. Have fun sewing!

Hot Patterns Montpellier Dress – Really is Fast and Fabulous!

This is one of those patterns that I knew I wanted the minute I saw it.

It’s just one of those easy, breezy simple to wear in the summer dresses. So I made this from a linen-like fabric in navy blue.

There were a few alterations I made in order to get to this point. I did make a muslin of the dress and basically worked in stages so that I could see the effects of each change I made.

First, I shortened it by 3″. I knew it would need to be shortened just from the picture on the envelope. The muslin cut my leg off at a weird (unflattering) spot, so 3″ off to start.

Then it was VERY full so I needed to reduce the fullness, but keep the shape of the dress. So, I marked the waist on the muslin, then added a dart in the front (you really can’t tell with the dark, solid fabric) that extends from the waist to the hem.

I reshaped the curve a little about 1/2″ to reduce it in the back. Since the back has a seam anyway, that was easy to sew the “new” seam. The front I actually did cut on the fold and added the dart as mentioned above.

The only thing I had actual trouble with was the in-seam pocket. I really wasn’t getting the instructions, so I did it the way I knew how. I cut off the facing and reshaped the pocket to get it done.

While all of this sounds like a lot, it took a few hours to work out the adjustments. Actual construction was pretty fast (about 4 hours). This dress is perfect for a linen blend or some other breezy type of fabric. It’ll be great for summer weather.

That’s all for now. On to the next project…