Grommets and Studs for the Edgy Woman - Spring 2009 Trend

Yes, grommets and studs are popular this season. If you live on the edge, toss a few into your wardrobe. Be careful; they can magnify problem areas. Accessories are a great way to showcase them. Don't spend too much on this trend, in today gone tomorrow.

Parting Shots:

Me doing the trend - Grommet sweater gifted to me from my sister Mona.






Happy Style Watching!
C

Jacket Wear - M4656

I contemplated not posted a review for this coat/jacket. This is my first time using this pattern. I was in a rush to make it and didn't feel like a did my best work on it. The fit is fine. The finishing wasn't as crisp as I would have liked it to be.

I selected this coat/jacket to complement B5032. The day of the banquet, we got about three inches of heavy wet snow.

This pattern is out of print and is not in the McCalls pattern online database anymore. So I scanned and uploaded it into my flickr photostream. M4656

Pattern Description: Misses/Miss Petite Unlined Jacket in Two Lengths, top, bias skirt, pants and flower.

Pattern Sizing: 8 to 22; I made 14 with a few alterations/changes.

Did it look like the photo/drawing on the pattern envelope once you were done sewing with it? Yes. The pattern is true to the photo.

Were the instructions easy to follow? The instructions were easy. All sewing levels should be able to follow them with no problems.

What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern? I purchased this pattern a few years ago thinking it was a good basic pattern to make some nice coordinates from. It has clean lines and looks a bit sophisticated. I also like the inclusion of the flower pattern and instructions for making it.

Fabric Used: dull satin and polyester lining from Hancock's.
Notions: I used some that I removed from a thrift store sweater.





I noticed in the photos that they are too heavy for the jacket. I'm thinking of swapping them out for a lighter set of buttons.




Pattern Alterations or any design changes you made: I only made a few alterations and design changes.
- FBA - no photos, but the adjustment is the same made for one piece bodice pattern.
- The height of the collar was more than I cared for. So I trimmed out about 1/2".
- I underlined the entire coat/jacket.
and
- I added a few inches to the length for my height, but I forgot to take into consideration the length of my dress. As it is the dress was longer than the coat. Initially, I worried about this combination being a fashion no, no. But after some surfing on the web, I found a few photos displaying coats longer than the dress. So I decided to go ahead with wearing the coat with the dress.

On the Next Try - I will reduce the ease in the sleeve cap. I had to rip them out twice and still wasn't completely satisfied with the outcome. The underlining may have cause some of the difficulty with setting the sleeves.

Would you sew it again? Would you recommend it to others? I plan to sew it again. It's a easy versatile pattern. That could easily become a TNT. And yes, I would recommend it to others if you have it in your collection.






Conclusion: Although this coat/jacket did not turn out perfect, I like this pattern and think this it's worth a try.

Parting Shots:
Pictures of my place of worship on March 28, 2009.

Flower Power – The Art of Wearing Flowers Part II

“Real Simple” magazine (April 2009) features an article: Say it with Flowers. The article showcases 16 pieces to make your spring/summer wardrobe shine. From the self-proclaimed shrinking violet to the ultra flower child (like me), there is something for everyone. Here are a few ideas.

Tiered Peasant Top from White House Black Market


Kate Spade Dress buy at katespade.com for a cool $425.00. (You can make it for much less than that.)
Cute little shoes from Bodenusa.com.

Corsage pin from Customfabricflowers.com of NY.

Boden Clutch, $128, at bodenusa.com.


J.Crew Belt, $68.00 buy it at jcrew.com.

Wild Flower Large Floral Print - B5314 Part II

Pattern Description: MISSES' DRESS AND BELT: Lined dresses A, B, C have front and back darts, back zipper, skirt with front and back darts, back slit. A: gathered collar with self loop. B: slight draped collar. A, B: self-fabric belt with purchased buckle. C: neckline slit, squared armholes and purchased belt. All dress lengths are 2" above mid-knee.

Pattern Sizing: 6-22. I made 14 with a few adjustments.

Did it look like the photo/drawing on the pattern envelope once you were done sewing with it? For the most part. The collar on the photo appears to lay closer to the body the mine. This is probably due to the weight and fiber content of my fabric selection. I excluded the belt and the back slit in the skirt.

Were the instructions easy to follow? Very, I had no problems following them. Pretty standard. It would have been great if the instructions including some a tip on placement of large floral print. Since the pattern showcased the it. Just a thought.

What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern? Everything. When I first laid eyes on this pattern I knew I would buy and make it this season. Nothing to dislike.

Fabric Used: Stretch cotton woven from Hancock. I bought the fabric from Hancock's late February. I thought it would be perfect for this dress. This fabric speaks to two fashion trends: Floral prints and the color fuchsia. And I'm a fan of both. The polyester lining also purchased from Hancock's

Pattern Alterations or any design changes you made: I only made a few.
FBA and experimenting with the placement of floral pattern.
No slit in the back
Didn't make a belt
Understitched the neckline and armholes - my preference.

Would you sew it again? Would you recommend it to others?
That's the plan. Next dress will be in a solid color. And yes I highly recommend this pattern to others. It is like the pattern says: "Fast and Easy".



Caution; the layers at the CB neckline may be a little thick depending on the weight of the fabric you use. Take your time with it.

Conclusion: I like this pattern and plan to make it again. When: Don't know. But it's a winner. Great spring/summer dress that easy to sew and very comfortable to wear. Try it!

Working with Large Floral Prints - B5314

At first sight of Butterick 5314, I decided it would be one of my spring/summer dresses of 2009. And of course, I would make it using a large floral print same as the pattern. Large floral prints aren't for everyone, but I thought I could pull it off with my height and size.







After altering the pattern, I starting experimenting with the placement of the flowers trying to duplicate the placement of the flowers of the pattern illustration. Here's how I copied the design of the print using a stretch woven purchased at Hancock.





Stay Tuned, more later on my many projects in progress!
C

Snake, Raddle, and Roll - Trend #4

Trend #4 - Snakeskin shoes.

Best For: Women who want to make a statement without going overboard.

How to Wear Then: Real Simple magazine says: "As a sharp counter point to basics and monochromatic outfits."



- Nuetral-colored snakeskin pumps adds sophistication to a suit
- Strappy heels with a dress or a skirt, refined but sexy evening look
- Flats or sandals in pink, yellow, blue, or a metallic to dress up weekend clothes.


Worth the Investment? No doubt. This trend is a main stay. Faux snakeskin looks just as good is the real pathon.



Where to get them:

Macy's of course - Check it out!

Two More Projects for Spring - B5314 & S2724

Two More Projects are making their way to the cutting table. One for me and the other my DD.

For me: B5314, View A The fabric was purchased at Hancock's; it's a stretch woven that is bright and very colorful. ..., hmmm..., So Spring like.




and..,

For DD S2724, a version of the pink dress, but with 3/4 length sleeves DD fabric is a emerald silk dupioni from Hancock's.

In the Nude - Spring Trend #3 2009

Everyone can Spring into the nudes this Spring. There is a shade to complement every complexion. But is best for olive skin tones.

Here's how you can work it in the nude!

The Key: achieve a soft flattering look go deeper or lighter than your complexion, so there's contrast.

Beigey or Peachy nudes work with olive skin
Blush and rose tinted nudes marry with fair and light skin tones
Carmael or chocolate shades complement dark skin



Shoes - are virtually foolproof: Neutral stilettos is perfect for every outfit



Worth the Investment: Of course. They appear every year.

Jumpsuit - Fashion Trend 2009

The chic jumpsuit is back!
Best for:
Tall, lean frames

How To Wear it:
Solid dark color, with a nipped in waist or a belt

Versatile:
Wear with jacket
Wear to work
With fancy heels, it's a sub for a cocktail dress

Buy it:
$396, Winknyc.com or make it!

Options:

Spring! We're Anxiously Waiting

Over the weekend the midwest started to experience a warming trend. By Tuesday it was 61 degrees in the afternoon, and when leaving the office (5:30pm) I noticed a gleamer of sunlight. Spring is on it's way and I'm so, so happy with the anticipation of sweet smelling of flowers and green grass.

On the sewing table are several garments cut from heavy fabric: a skirt, vest, jacket. While Spring is definitely on my mind, winter will stick around Chicago for at least another six to eight weeks with a occassional day of warm weather. We have had snow storms as late as April. As we experience intermittent days of Spring, my thoughts are on what I want to wear this Spring.

Starting with color; fuchsia is a favorite becoming a focus point in my wardrobe about every eight years or so. This Spring it's named as a trend color by "Real Simple" magazine.

Best For:

Women who aren't afraid of a second look

How To Wear It:

Bold dress, break it up with a belt or jacket
If you are busty or have full hips, avoid it in those areas.
Blonds in hot pink is a no, no.


Worth the Investment:

YES! Buy one great piece; not to be worn every day, but a beautiful compliment to your wardrobe.

All items posted can be purchased at Nordstrom.com.