Faux Wrap Dress

I am always late to the pattern party. This New Look pattern was one of the Best of 2009 patterns on Pattern Review, and there are pages and pages of reviews to back it up! Well, after 8 years I figured I should see what all the fuss was about... 8 years ago. What can I say? Just say no to peer pressure!

The pattern is New Look 6429. I am positive it is OOP, as I see New Look has now recycled the pattern number for use on a newer design. This is a faux wrap dress with collar and sleeve variations. I used an uber soft black and white space dyed jersey that I picked up while on a trip to San Francisco. 

The pattern was super easy to sew. I did not make any size or design changes. I usually make one size smaller than recommended on all the Big Four patterns, but 2 sizes smaller for knit patterns as I find there's a little too much ease. I only did the one size smaller this time and although it's not huge, it could have been a little more fitted.

Overall, I am happy with this dress. It's great for my work-wear collection. I can now lay this pattern to rest. It's a great make but I don't see needing another one of these. 

~Jenny 

Color Block Dress

Happy Fall! Today I am showing off my color blocked dress I made from Simplicity 1276. This is a design from the always unique and stylish Mimi G! 

I made view A, with the flared skirt, but used the elbow length sleeves. I used ponte roma knits from Low Price Fabrics. I lined the dress with a white tricot that I believe came from Low Price Fabrics as well. I'm guessing I spent about $30 including notions. 

The dress went together easily. I made my standard one size smaller than recommended by the pattern envelope. The instructions are good. I know Mimi G did some accompanying videos that give you lots of great construction tips. I was lazy though- I just did my own thing. 

The torso came out a bit long on me- I should have shortened this by 1/2 an inch or so. The fit is otherwise decent. My one complaint is that the thick ponte knit tends to bunch up in the back of the dress, creating back fat rolls that I don't have. Perhaps this could have been solved by shortening the torso so that it lays flat. I wear this dress with a jacket though so that no one gets an eyeful of the back. I know, I know- make a muslin! I can't do it people!

Overall I am happy with this dress. It looks great with tights, boots and a jacket in the Fall! 

~ Jenny 

Black and White Peplum Top

This is a long time overdue. I finished this top several weeks ago as part of my business-casual inspired wardrobe. I'm in a love-hate relationship with it. 

Pictured here with my pencil skirt. Don't mind my curly hair fly-aways. 

I used Vogue 9056. I was drawn to this pattern because I really like the shape of this design.There is a gap in my capsule that needs to be filled with comfortable but stylish tops. 

Photo-bombed by a 4 year old. Hey kid, don't you know that modeling me-makes is serious business?

The fabric is from Joann Fabrics. It is a sweatery double knit fabric. I really like the print. Sure, it reminds me of draperies but I think that's what drew me to it. 

I did need to make a few changes. I'm guilty of not always reading the description and did not realize that this is designed to have a raw finish- yuck! I finished the neckline with seam binding. I hand-sewed the seam binding down to create a cleaner look. And I hand-sewed the hem on both the sleeves and bottom hem. The top as drafted has quite a bit of ease. I took in approximately another 5/8" on each side seam, blending the sleeve seam allowance with the bodice seam allowance. 

Worn with my favorite slacks- from Loft. 

So I've worn this a couple of times already. It is comfortable and goes with different things in my wardrobe. The one drawback is that at certain angles, I'm pretty sure I give off the pregnancy vibe. I'm more vane than I like to admit and not sure I can deal with the insta-pooch. 

What do you think? 

~Jenny 

Jersey Wrap Dress

Wrap dresses are probably one of the most universally flattering styles. I've made this dress before- apparently back in 2009! I love how blogging has allowed me the opportunity to journal my makes! This is a timeless, classic style that will never go out of fashion. And I decided I needed one for my business-casual inspired capsule. The pattern is Vogue 8379.

The fabric is an ITY jersey print from www.LowPriceFabric.com. I ordered a couple of prints during a sale and this was one of them. The colors are black, burgundy, and white. I love the print- it reminds me of some of the classic DVF wraps. I spent about $15 on the fabric. 

I made one size smaller than my first attempt. I also have a serger now and serged most of the seams up. I interfaced the dress from the neck facing, down to the hem along the front edges. And I shortened this a bit by taking up a 2" hem instead of a 1 1/4". 

I think this will be a great piece in my new work wardrobe. It can be styled with different jackets and cardigans, or worn as is. 

~Jenny 

Maritime Shorts and a Renfrew

It is quickly getting warm around these parts, and I desperately needed a well-fitting pair of shorts. I've shed some weight over the last few years and many of my shorts have quickly taken on the dreaded "mom" look. I'm no longer actively participating in a RTW fast. However, since fasting all of last year, I've become more critical of the things I buy in stores. I've become more aware of quality workmanship, or the lack thereof. Simply put, I can make things that are better fitting, and of higher quality than the things I can find in stores on the same budget. This was true of finding a perfect pair of shorts.

 

 

 

I used a dark blue, stretch denim that I had in my stash. I couldn't tell you where or when I got it, other than I know it came from an online purchase. I do recommend the stretch as these are a close fitting pair of shorts.

 

I haven't had the greatest luck with making pants or shorts in the past. I came across the Grainline Maritime Shorts pattern. The pattern had all of the details I was looking for. After a quick Google search, I found several cute, well-fitting pairs on other women. So I decided to give it a go.

 

These went together quickly and without any hiccups. The instructions are adequate. There is a tutorial available on Jen's blog where she shows you step by step how to complete them.

 

I chose the size according to my measurements on the size chart. As far as fit, I did not have to make any changes. They fit great around the waist and hips. For personal taste, and for a more flattering look on myself, I added enough length to give me a 5 inch inseam. The hook and eye closure on the waistband lasted one wearing before popping off. So I added a buttonhole and jeans button for a sturdier closure.

 

 

My final verdict: the perfect pair of summer shorts! They are well-fitting and flattering. I seem to always have rear-view issues but these really are flattering from all angles. They have received repeated wear already. I will have to make another couple of pairs for some variety.

 

I paired this with my latest Renfrew Top from Sewaholic Patterns. I think this is my favorite style: short sleeved, with a V-neck. My summer uniform! I used a cotton/lycra print from Girl Charlee. This particular print does not appear to be in stock anymore. This is my 5th version so I won't do a full review. But you can check out my other versions:

 

Version 3&4

Version 2

Version 1

 

And while we are on the subject of knit tops, I recently purchased a Brother serger machine. I got the DZ1234, which as far as I can tell is the same as the 1034D, but came with some extra feet. Holy moly, I never knew what I was missing out on! After about an hour of getting to know my new serger, I was ready to get going on the Renfrew. My top went together in about half the time I was used to. There were no tension or other stitching issues. AND... My top is more comfortable to wear! This I was not expecting but it only makes sense. The stitches are made to give and stretch, allowing for a more flexible, comfortable top. I really don't know what I was waiting for other than a little thing called money... lol!

 

~Jenny

Mini-Me's

 

 

I had enough fabric left over from each of my Renfrews to make my kids their own tees too.

 

 

 

Logan's tee is made using the Vintage V-neck pattern from Blank Slate Patterns. These are pdf patterns for boys and girls. There aren't a lot of cool little boy patterns available buy Blank Slate has a good selection. I made a 4T based on his measurements. There isn't a lot of room for growth so I will go up a size the next time.

 

 

 

Next up is the baby's tee. She just turned 1 year old and is about 20 pounds. I used Simplicity 1566. This is a good pattern for basic separates- tops, pants, jackets, vest, and jumper. I made a size large (18 months). Again, there's not a ton of room for growing. This was also super easy. The most time consuming (and annoying) part was hand sewing snaps on each shoulder seam. These are necessary though so that the top can fit over baby's head.

 

Both tees came together quickly and they were a great way to use up the leftover fabric.

 

~Jenny

A Pair of Renfrews

These are my third and fourth versions of the Sewaholic Renfrew pattern. My wardrobe is lacking in casual tops that are suitable for Fall/Winter. The Renfrew top is perfect for filling in that gap.

 

 

 

I made the long sleeve version with the V-neck (my favorite neckline). My original review is here. I've lost some weight since then so I went down one size. I left the length as is.

 

They went together quickly and easily, each taking less than two hours on a conventional machine.

 

 

 

Aren't the prints cool? They were both from Girl Charlee Fabrics. The fox print can be found here, and the bird print can be found here. They are each available in other color ways as well.

 

What basics will you be adding to your wardrobe for the cooler weather?

 

~Jenny

Cowl Neck Renfrew

Here's a quick and easy basic for you. I've made the Sewaholic Renfrew before and have always wanted many more in my closet. It is such a great staple to have in several colors to work with multiple looks. I'm a big fan of the arm and hem bands. Here's the link to my first Renfrew with more of a review included in the post. That one is still a go to top especially in the warmer weather.  

 

 

 And in case you're wondering, yes- I think those are deodorant marks under my boob. Something I didn't notice until looking at the pictures. Damn you black shirts!

~Jenny

 

Little Grey Dress

This is a project that's been in my to do pile for a while. I couldn't get excited about it because I was worried about being able to pull it off. It's more form fitting than I usually go for. In retrospect, my insecurities were very silly.

 

 

I made a mistake while sewing this but it turned out to be a happy mistake. I cut out view B which has the sleeves. However, the instructions for view A appear first. I was zoning out and totally followed the instructions for view A, making this into a sleeveless dress. I'm actually glad I did though. I think the sleeveless version has a more classy, sheath shape that I like.

 

Butterick 5672

 

I used a wool jersey for the shell and lined it with a tricot knit. I read many reviews before beginning and took note that many people omitted the lining and the zipper. I inserted both for a few reasons:

 

• Although the wool content in the jersey is low, my sensitive skin still gets the itchies from it.
• The jersey is on the thinner side so lining it gave the dress a more substantial weight.
• In my opinion, lining a garment looks better than facing the edges, or hemming them.
• Yes, it's a knit dress but if I didn't insert the zipper, I'm sure I would have popped the waistline stitches by trying to get it over my head and shoulders- especially since I ended up taking the sides in a bit.

I cut my typical one size smaller than the pattern recommends. The Big 4 always has too much ease in my opinion. As I sewed, I did some test fittings and ended up sewing a 7/8" seam allowance along the sides to eat up some more ease. I'm glad I did. It took the dress from being on the frumpy side, to body-con in no time.

 

The dress went together fast and easily! It's a great option if you need a new dress in a flash. The pleating along the waistline is great for camouflaging a bit of a tummy if you need.

 

My hubby's comment: "you look stunning"!  

 

~Jenny

Striped Maternity Dress

Another quick and easy maternity dress! This time I used McCalls 6612- NOT a maternity pattern. However, because this is a knit dress, it accommodated my swelling bump without adjustments.

 

I used a blue and green jersey I purchased at Joann Fabrics earlier in the Spring. You can't see it very well in the photo but there is a thin metallic thread running between each stripe which is a nice touch. I spent $22 on fabric.

When sewing garments made for knits with the Big 4, I usually go with 2 sizes smaller than what is recommended by the envelope. However, I only sized down by 1 size below my PRE-pregnant measurements and this worked out well.

The dress is fast and easy. I finished the neckline with seam binding- which was the only change I made.

I am really happy with this dress. It is comfortable and easy to wear- yet you still look a little more dressed up than typical maternity casual RTW. When I wore this out the first time, I received several compliments from friends. I was also stopped by a stranger who told me she was looking for cute maternity wear but couldn't find anything and wanted to know where I got my dress from! Another plus is that this will still work next year when I'm not pregnant!

~Jenny

Floral Maternity Top

I've only a few more maternity projects to show you and then I'm on to my Fall/post-maternity sewing!

 

 

 

 

I used Kwik Sew 3487 for this top. It's a pretty run of the mill design as far as maternity wear is concerned. The top has a faux wrap bodice with a attached tie belt.

 

I used an ITY floral print jersey from the stash that I had purchased from Fabric.com sometime ago.

 

This is my first time using a Kwik Sew pattern. I sewed a large based off of my early second trimester measurements. It turned out a bit big, especially in the bust area. I probably should have done a medium.

 

It was very easy to sew and the instructions were straight forward. I didn't make any adjustments or design changes.

 

The V-neck is a bit low. In fact I have mine safety pinned together a few inches above where it starts for modesty.

 

 

Overall, it's a very comfortable top that was easy to make. It works very well for maternity purposes and could be made up in a variety of prints and colors.

 

~Jenny

Mod Maternity Dress

Have you ever ordered fabric online that was absolutely fugo when you got it but you were too lazy to return it? That was this fabric for me. It has sat in my stash for several years. It is an ITY print that I had purchased online (I don't want to say where because it really wasn't their fault). It just wasn't what I had expected so I told myself I would make some pajamas out of it one day so it didn't go to waste.

 

While browsing through my pattern collection, the fabric spoke to me when I came to Vogue 1179. I thought the dress would look really fab in a mod sort of way made up with my pink and black nightmare fabric. And I think it does!

 

 

 

The pattern is another non-maternity design that still works great for The Bump. Mine is 19 weeks at this point. I didn't make any alterations to the fit. In fact, I cut my usual 2 sizes smaller than the pattern recommends based on my pre-pregnancy measurements. I do this for almost all knit designs by the Big 4 pattern companies because, in my opinion, they allow too much ease for knit pieces.

 

 

 

The dress was super easy to make. I think I whipped it up in less than 2 hours (not including cutting). I made some minor changes to the construction. Instead of a narrow hem on the arms, I finished these with seam binding. Also, the instructions would have you sew one side of the collar to the dress, then press down the seam allowance on the other side and hand sew this in place. I suppose this would make for a very clean look but I found it much easier to just fold the collar piece in half with wrong sides facing and sew it all to the neckline at once. I then did my faux- overlock stitch using my standard machine to finish the edges. No one knows the difference from the outside so this was a good time saving move for me. Also, I was worried the dress might be too short because The Bump tends to hike things up a bit. So I did a 1 1/2 inch hem instead of the 4 inches the pattern allows.

 

 

 

I'm very happy with this dress. I received several compliments the first time I wore this. It's very comfortable while pregnant- and it's another one that I can wear after pregnancy too.

 

~Jenny

Maxi Tank Dress

Sorry for the long silence over here. My last project (not blogged) left me defeated and sucked up my sewing mojo for a few weeks. It's dull and boring so I don't feel like blogging it.

 

Although the temperatures can't decide if it's Winter or Spring around here- I'm jumping into my warm weather sewing.

 

 

 

 

McCalls 6559

 

This dress was super fast and easy. I think it took me about 2.5 hours after cutting it out. There's really nothing to it. Just 2 pieces and minimal seams.

 

I used a jersey from GorgeousFabrics.com. Unfortunately it looks like it is sold out. I love the pretty earth tones in the print.

 

I made view D, the version pictured on the model. FYI... the envelope is a little deceiving unless you are good at paying attention to details- which apparently I am not. I assumed all of the views had the slight racer-back style which is what I had wanted. However, only upon closer inspection did I realize that it is view E and F that have the racer-back. I didn't even notice this until I had it all sewed up so there was no point in going back.

 

The pattern instructions would have you do a narrow hem on the neckline and arms. Whenever I attempt this on knits, it does not turn out well for me. It ends up looking sloppy and homemade. Instead, I finished these edges with seam binding.

 

I cut one size smaller than the pattern recommended- my usual adjustment. I did have to cut about 3 inches off the length to avoid stepping on the hem. My one complaint is the neckline ends up being a little too wide and/or low on me. When wearing a normal bra, I had to constantly hike up the dress so my bra wasn't showing. I will need to wear a tank under the dress to remedy this. Just something you may need to consider if your bust is on the smaller side.

 

Overall, I am happy with the finished dress. It is easy to wear, comfortable, and looks great!

 

Don't forget to checkout the Shabby Apple Giveaway! It is open until the end of April.

 

~Jenny  

 

Tie Dye Vogue Top

I've been wanting to make this top for awhile after first admiring Amanda's version. Amanda is one of my sewing idols. She is always making things that look like they came from a high-end boutique.

 

 

 

 

I came across this tie dye print from Mood Fabrics and I thought it would work up well with this pattern. I spent $20 for the fabric. It's a lightweight knit so I should be able to wear it into early Spring.

 

 

Vogue 1261

 

This was very easy to sew. I like the exposed seams of the raglan style sleeves. I also like the longer length and asymmetrical hem line. I took some tips from Amanda and made a few changes. I cut the back on the fold and omitted the ribbon trim that the pattern would have you apply. Like Amanda, I did not use a twin needle for the topstitching. I simply sewed 1/8 of an inch on either side of the exposed seam and trimmed the SA close to the stitching. I applied the neck binding with right sides facing together, pressed the seam to the inside, and topstitched the SA 1/8 of an inch away. I chose to leave the sleeves and hem unfinished as the pattern suggests. I think the hippy tie-dye theme went well with the exposed seams and unfinished hem. This took about 3 hours to sew.

 

I'm happy with this top in the end. It's a style I normally wouldn't have picked for myself if I had not seen Amanda's version... but I'm glad I tried it out. It's comfortable and casual but a step up from just  jeans and a t-shirt. I could see making view B which has a cowl neck.  

 

I wore this to our local public gardens. There wasn't a lot of flowers in bloom this time of year but still some cool scenery for photos!

 

 

 

~Jenny

Pattern Review: Simplicity

This is actually my second go around with this pattern. I made view B back in 2009 and reviewed it here. I was hesitant to make the maxi length because of my petite stature. However, I took the plunge and am glad I did. It is one of my current favorites.





Pattern Description: Misses' knit dress in two lengths with bodice variations. I made view E.

Pattern Sizing: This pattern comes in sizes 6-22. I went back and tried on the other dress I made with this pattern and found that it fit very well, even with my post-maternity body. So I stuck with a 14. What this means- the pattern runs large.

Did it look like the photo/drawing on the pattern envelope once you were done sewing with it? Yes!

Were the instructions easy to follow? The instructions were very easy to follow. I did not find the errors with this view as I did on the other version.

What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern? This is a "Best of 2009" pattern for a reason. It is easy to sew up. It has great lines and is very flattering for any body type. I love the neckline on this view. I like the bodice gathering and waist definition. No dislikes.

Fabric Used: Rayon jersey. Cannot remember where I got it- was in my stash.

Pattern alterations or any design changes you made: I had to shorten the length by 5 inches. The only other thing I did was change the way the neck band was sewn down. I hand sewed the facing in place. The pattern has you edge stitch the neck band which catches the facing in place. I found that hand sewing it down created a much neater look.

Would you sew it again? Would you recommend it to others? Yes, this one is a keeper!

Conclusion: Another great version from this pattern!



~Jenny

Pattern Review: McCall's

So I know you all made this like one or two years ago but I'm finally catching up on the trends...



Pattern Description: Misses' cardigan in three lengths: flared open front cardigan has irregular hem. I made C, the longest length.

Pattern Sizing: This pattern is available in sizes x-small to xx-large. I made a large (16-18).

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

Were the instructions easy to follow? Yes, the instructions were very easy. This wasn't quite a one hour pattern. I would say sewing time took two hours, with the hemming taking the longest amount of time. In the future, I may try cutting this out with a rotary cutter and leaving the raw edges un-hemmed, as others have suggested.

What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern? I like how easy this went together. There were no side seams. Simply set the sleeves in and hem the edges! As others have mentioned, one might have to adjust the pattern piece for the width between the sleeves before cutting out, since there is no side seams.

Of course I like how this cardigan can be worn in endless different ways. Check out the DKNY website for ideas.

Fabric Used: Rayon jersey from fabric.com. This only cost me $9.96!

Pattern alterations or any design changes you made: As you can see from the photo- I am very pregnant, almost 8 months. However, I made no adjustments.

Would you sew it again? Would you recommend it to others? Yes, I might sew this one again. It's a versatile piece that will travel well too.

Conclusion: I plan on wearing this one after having the baby too. With my large belly, I can't tie the ends in all the fancy ways. It really only fits with the ends hanging or wrapped around the shoulders. However, I am looking forward to wearing the cardigan in many different ways once Baby has been born!



~Jenny

Pattern Review: Simplicity Jacket

Sorry to keep you waiting! I finally have pictures of this outfit. If someone could come up with a camera that gives you perfect lighting, takes off twenty pounds, and gives you the perfect facial expression- I would pay a pretty penny for it... lol! I could not make this outfit look good indoors or out on camera. Maybe it's the hot pink color... I don't know. I'm still not satisfied with the pics but I give up!

Pattern Description: Misses' dress with knit bodice and jacket or vest.

Pattern Sizing: Sizes 6-22 are available. I made a 16.

Did it look like the photo/drawing on the pattern envelope once you were done sewing with it? Yes!

Were the instructions easy to follow? I found that the instructions for both the jacket and the dress were fine.

What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern? The jacket- I really love all of the details of the jacket. The pockets are really cute. I like the sleeves with the banded hem. I like the loop and ribbon closures.

The dress- I love the shape of the dress. It almost looks like a ballerina style dress. I love the banding along the neckline and arms. I also like the back- it comes in like a racer back.

I don't have any dislikes.

Fabric Used: For the dress, I used a hot pink jersey knit from Fabric.com. It cost me $10. I found that the knit was just a little too thin for my liking. Next time I make the dress, I will use something with a little more weight.

For the jacket, I got a navy linen blend with metallic threads in it. That cost me $6- it was on clearance at Joann's. I really like the metallic in the jacket- the pictures don't do it justice.

Pattern alterations or any design changes you made: I shortened the dress by about 1-2". I did not put in the pockets. I did put in the zipper but I find that I could have gotten away without it because of the 4 way stretch in the knit.

I did not make any changes to the jacket. The one thing I would change if I make it again is to lengthen the arm bands. I find that I have to do this for any garments with arm bands because I do not have pencil arms. Sometimes I forget to make the adjustment. It looks OK, but would be better lengthened.

Would you sew it again? Would you recommend it to others? I definitely want to sew the dress again. I could have this dress in ten different colors- I love the style and it is perfect for warm weather dressing. I also like the jacket a lot. I think I would like to make it in a tan or gray khaki next time so that it has more versatility. Yes- I would recommend both pieces.

Conclusion: I love this outfit- I wore it out to dinner with my hubby for his birthday!




~Byrdie