Friday, January 27, 2012

Ahoy there! My sailor outfit

 



This blouse makes me smile.  Many years ago I worked on a cruise ship that floated around the big, blue ocean. It was a wonderful, adventurous time of my life. I guess the feeling of the sea has never left me.  So in honor of that time, I made up this blouse.  I have always wanted a "sailor" blouse and have never owned one.  I am really happy with how this project came out. Have you ever notice that some sewing projects just seem to put themselves together? Most of my projects don't just fall into place, I have to do a lot of planning and seam ripping! This one was different and seem to have a life of it's own. It was just a lot of fun.  I did change the sleeve a bit to be more flared at the lower edge.   This pattern does not call for trims, but I couldn't resist putting on the vintage military braid I had in my stash. The navy, linen fabric was a left over piece from my ginger skirt, so now I have a matching two piece suit, so to speak. I thought about adding a red scarf, but opted for these cute, vintage buttons.   This blouse was made with lots of ease and comfort in mind, because I plan on taking it on vacation. It looks really cute tucked in. I will be making this pattern again, maybe with in a knit.  I have been sewing up a storm lately, so much that I have a ton to blog about. Be back soon with more.

Have a great vintage day,

Gina

Tuesday, January 17, 2012

Ginger skirt


Last summer I started a project called Closing the gaps.   For those of you new to my blog, once every new season, I take a hard look at my wardrobe.  Looking for the "singles".  You know the ones, those oddball garments that hang around in your closet.  Ones that you can't seem to get rid of, but nothing matches them either.  Well, I was in need of a navy skirt for a number of blouses that matches nothing. Even though it's not spring yet, I am determined to get my spring wardrobe together now.  I am dreaming about smart, comfortable outfits that have a vintage flare.  This ginger skirt by Colette Patterns is easy to make and the fit is fabulous.  I did have a adjust the waistline a bit, it's on the larger size for me and it sits a tad high. Other than that, the pattern is perfect! If you are on the fence about starting to sew, or are overwhelmed by the thought of  beginning to sew yourself. This may be a good pattern to start with.
I have made three of these skirt this past week. More on that later, this one is made from linen. I love the flow and movement of this garment.  I highly suggest linen or linen like for this project. The sweater is vintage and the blouse is from the thrift store. I believe it's 80's.

Have a happy vintage day!

Gina