Fall Sewing {Outfit: In the Glen}
06 September 2011 | by Jen in Sewing
I hope everyone had a nice weekend! Because of our Labor Day holiday here in the U.S. I was able to finish up some sewing that has been sitting around since my last fall outfit post.
Once again, this outfit is 1930s-inspired; perhaps it’s vaguely Carnivale-esque? The blouse is made up of a muted mint green shirting, off-white cotton-silk voile and embellished with a black silk satin ribbon bow (that’s pinned on and can be removed). The skirt with large patch pockets is made from a tan/black/orange glen plaid.
The top pattern is McCall’s M5977. Remember how I said I thought the armhole ruffles were weird? Well, I decided to add them for this version but I redrafted the ruffles so they would be the least narrow under my arms (which is more flattering in my opinion). I knew going in that this shirting fabric was not ideal for a pullover style top; it’s a little stiff and would be better suited to a button-down shirt. I was stubborn and envisioned it being made into this very blouse anyway. The shirt is meant to be tucked in so to reduce the bulk around my waist I added darts to both the front and back, keeping in mind that I still needed to be able to slip this on over my head!
The skirt fabric is a really soft cotton, not the wool you would expect. (So soft in fact that Spoo Kee is sleeping on top of it as I write this.) I kept the design really simple with patch pockets cut on the bias for a slight contrast. The pockets are lined with self fabric that is cut with the grain (for stability).
For a bit of fanciness I lined this skirt with silk charmeuse. I have to say, I love it! By far so much nicer than polyester or acetate lining. It feels like wearing a nightie underneath. And yes, you may notice that I used a navy blue zipper instead of black. That is simply because I had forgotten to get a black zipper and the fabric store was closed and I did not want to wait! Ah, impatience.
Have you started your fall sewing yet?
What are your thoughts, dears? | ♥ 10 Comments
Love your pieces and love the fact that your weather is the type where that top could be considered fall. Well, I finished a top this weekend too. However, mine in pale yellow gingham would be considered summer still. I have a pair of drapy lightweight shorts to finish and then everything else on my list could be considered transitional weather gear. I also bought another piece of fabric for fall. A wild autumnal jersey print that coordinates not only with the wardrobe fabrics but also with my pre-existing clothes. So with a 40% coupon, I feel it was really worth it.
Thanks, dear! I really want to sew more with jersey. I used to when I worked for the ballet but find it tricky. I really enjoy the pieces you’ve been coming up with and their timeless design.
I love how both pieces turned out. The skirt is so well tailored!
Thank you, Michelle!
Beautiful blouse and skirt!
Thanks, Laura!
I love both pieces. I have been known to be stubborn and impatient too. The colors of the blouse and details are beautiful. The skirt I could see wearing all the time.
Hooray for long weekends
its really very nice and modern, i will be make one to
skirt
Thanks, Matea!
Actually, the blue zip works well in the skirt. It’s not as harsh a contrast like black would have been. Great work!