Despite the heat I have spent a lot of time in the studio this summer. A couple weeks ago I pulled several yards of linen from my stash. I picked up this length nearly 20 years ago but never felt like I had the right pattern to begin transforming the linen yardage into a wearable item. As it turned out, I did have an older Vogue pattern but what I created from it in the past never turned out well. Today I am happy to report: this pattern was perfect for my new endeavour after all!
My first project was this slimming linen dress.
It fits perfectly and makes me feel like a million bucks!
I had some black cotton fabric left from the last sewing project. It was enough for a little vest that can be worn as a simple summer top or over the dress for a different look.
Back to the yellow linen: I cut a second vest from the linen. I opted to lengthen this vest for versatility. It looks good with shorts or a skirt.
I also added the same top stitching I used for the dress for a classy finish. Next I located some black polkadot buttons in the notions box for the final custom touch.
I realized that I still had a good amount of yellow linen left and contemplated whether I should make a skirt or challenge myself with fitted pants that reach just above the ankle and look great with black sandals.
The idea of the pants won out. I was a bit worried about the final fit and that they may be too small. Half-way through the project I had the thought that creating a muslin first might have been a wise move. However, I persevered with this new challenge.
I was pleasantly surprised in the end. The pants are flattering. Waist and hips fit flawlessly, the legs taper down and are of a loose fit, perfect for summer wear.
The conclusion: this Vogue pattern is a keeper! Size 12 provided the perfect fit. And best of all, I added a lovely splash of daffodil yellow to my summer wardrobe. The last time I wore this bright colour was in the mid 70’s: I owned several yellow wardrobe items and a pair of ultra-cool patent leather plateau boots.😊 I wonder what ever happened to those…
I will leave you with this blast from the past as I head back to my sewing machine. Enjoy the great weather!
Anna Hergert, Art & Design 
Hi Anna, elegant and sophisticated!
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So lovely!
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😁Thanks, Helene!
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What a beautiful outfit! perfectly tailored… you must have had a huge amount of that linen. Beautiful stitching, and love the buttons.
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Thank you, Minnie! Yes, I had about 5 or 6 meters of the linen. I still have a little left, maybe just enough for a child’s dress.
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I envy someone who can sew. A 3500 piece quilt, no problem, but a zipper, darts, I am terrified. What a lovely wardrobe you have created. Wishing you good luck in the house selling.
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Thanks, Katina. Sewing and tailoring was my first passion… I didn’t take up quilting till about 20 years ago. But in truth I have not been this exact when it comes to making clothes until about two years ago. These days it’s about quality not quantity.
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Love the colour!! You’ve got me thinking about sewing myself a few garments now. I also have a great image of you looking totally chic in your plateau boots!!!
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😜…and I am sure you are laughing out loud! Oh what would be do without fashion trends of past and future?
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Such a cheerful colour. Reminds me of happy sunflowers. Once I get my quilt ready for the show, I hope to start sewing some new garments again. It’s been a long time since I have done that.
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Can’t wait to see what you choose to create, Eileen!
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Quite an ensemble you have created. Many options to wear and impeccable stitching.
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Thank you, Janet! So nice to hear from you. Did you attend QBL again this year?
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A lovely new wardrobe for you. And the bonus is that you are having so much fun with your new sewing machine.
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Thanks, Carol! It also helps with the waiting game of trying to sell our property…
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