Wednesday, August 17, 2011

Exploring the Cargo of Simplicity 5102


For what it's worth, I've gotten plenty of use out of Simplicity 5102(OOP). I started my projects mid-July and finished the skirt on Saturday after returning from Wisconsin Dells.

I made variations of three of the six views on the pattern envelope. I personally believe you should use the pattern based on your own personal taste mixing and matching different suggested elements plus adding a few of your own.

I decided to make these garments because I am in much need of some "fun" casual wear. The blue pants were almost finished when I decided I needed the beige cargo pants for vacation. Lucky me, both pair were complete before vacation. I envision myself wearing the shinny blue pair for a Saturday night out; or perhaps, weekday dinner engagement. Whatever the event, I'm sure to get wear out of all three garments.



Pattern Description: The descriptions of the Simplicity patterns are so vague. This one simply says, "Misses' pants in two lengths and mini skirt." I'll include: pants with zipper, pocket and draw string variations. skirts feature cargo and side front patch like pockets.

Pattern Sizing: 4 to 18.

Did it look like the photo/drawing on the pattern envelope once you were done sewing with it? Basically, yes. I thought the width of the pant leg for view A were wider than the ones pictured on the envelope, but for the most part the basic look was the same. I excluded four of the zippers from view A, and I made functional zipper pockets for the front. For view C, I made the pant long added a belt and eliminated the elastic hem. For view F (skirt), I only added two pockets instead of the four.




Were the instructions easy to follow? Yes. I had no problems with them.

What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern? I like all the style variations for the pants. My only dislike is back zippers for the pants. I guess that's more of a personal preference.

Fabric Used: View C - Beige stretch woven twill, a gift from one of my sewing buddies. View A - Blue shinny denim look fabric from JoAnn's and View F - Grey linen blend from the Vogue Remnant's room.

Pattern alterations or any design changes you made: For the pants - I made my usual crotch adjustments and lengthen the pants about 4 inches. For View A - I made functional zipper pockets, eliminate four zippers, and installed an invisible zipper on the left side. For View C - I made a belt for this view and installed a front zipper. Finally for View F - I eliminated two cargo pockets and added a few inches to the length.

Would you sew it again? Would you recommend it to others? Maybe. And yes, I do recommend it to others. I think advanced beginners can sew this pattern with no problems.


Conclusion: I enjoyed making these garments and will get a lot of wear out of them. This pattern is not difficult, but some of the details do take time to sew. It's important to take your time. You don't want your garment to look "homemade".


All photos are on Flickr.

19 comments:

  1. All of them - beautiful! It's always nice to have some casual items with some style in the wardrobe. For some reason, I expend all my energy on the "nice" clothes, and the casual stuff gets made just as quickly as possible with not much attention to detail. Probably time to change that attitude! You've inspired me.

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  2. That's what I call workin' a pattern and making it work for you! I love all of these looks. Cargos.....never out of style! You've got some great looks here as well as stylish (not trendy) additions to your wardrobe! Nice work C!

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  3. What great pieces from one pattern. The pants fit very well. The skirt's pocket is just like a Burda STyle pattern that I made last year; great looking skirt!

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  4. your cargo pants are so beautifully fitted. I also really like the top you're wearing with the blue pants ... did you make that as well?

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  5. I like, I like, nice wardrobe additions.

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  6. Thanks, everyone! Joan - All of the tops came from JC Penny's.

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  7. Great pants, and the detailing on your skirt is inspiring. All 3 items look RTW.

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  8. Wow you got great use out of that pattern, 3 wonderful pieces and countless outfit options.

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  9. The pants look fantastic. You did a great job. Of course I don't expect anything less from you. TFS

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  10. Very nice, Netta. Great job. Thanks for the close-up of the gray skirt.

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  11. All three versions are fantastic but I think I like the skirt the best. The D ring detail on the pocket is so cute.

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  12. I love it when a pattern works as well as this one has for you! You have got three wonderful looking casual pieces - and they all look so beautifully fitted and constructed.

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  13. Wow, you've been making some fabulous casual wear. Love the middle outfit.

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  14. You got your value out of that pattern! All three pieces look great and are wonderful additions to a casual wardrobe.

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  15. Lovely clothes! Highlight the comfort seems to be a main feature in this pattern. Great!

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  16. Wow, each one looks so professional and incredibly versatile. Very nice!

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  17. Those really are great details and your work is so meticulous. I appreciate that you made all the views--too bad it's OOP because you are really selling it!

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  18. I love cargo style bottoms, your versions are no exception. Love them all, they look great on you.

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