Savvy Patterns - The Grace Tankini

The Grace Tankini is a vintage inspired two piece swimsuit with a variety of options.

The top I tested (View A) contains a Pretty circle cut out in the back.

The alternate, View B top, has a ruched center area which is customizable to flatter your figure.  Both top views include a shelf bra.

I sewed lining and cups inside, and the fit (and directions for fit) were on par.

During testing, Audrey made sure that the fit and feel were right for all sizes - and this meant a multitude of pattern amendments.  We worked together, and finally had the perfect fit under the arms, and with the behind.

For the bottoms, I tested out a circle skirt, but you can choose from a sporty bottom with or without ruching, or a panty.

Each of these 4 bottoms can be made either high waisted or to sit on your hips.  I prefer high waisted to cover up that whole "eating poutine with a pint" thing and neglecting my Beachbody workouts for the last while.

Once my workouts are back on track, beyond just daily yoga, I'll aim for the solo panty version - as I tried the tankini on with my 5 out of 4 Pattern's Reversible Riptide bottoms, and the pairing is amazing! 

Savvy Patterns Grace Tankini, 5 out of 4's Reversible Riptides, and George & Ginger Daybreak Rashguard!

The cut of the circle was a bit weird to understand at first for some, but I'd already completed a Twirly Skirt recently, so the double folding for a circle without seams was easy for me to comprehend.  I still haven't hemmed mine, but to be honest, I used the thicker swim fabric I sewed Husband's 5 out of 4 Men's Swim Trunks from, and swim fabric tends not to shred at the edges, so I'll see how long I can hold out before the edges become frayed.

The skirt is twirly, fun, and makes me feel pretty.  Plus I like something covering my behind and thighs, so it's perfect for my comfort level. And Merlin seemed to enjoy our photoshoot for our Fit Pics :)

On the Savvy Patterns website, Audrey (aka pattern designer with flair!) provides tips and links to swim sewing tutorials
 

But honestly, the pattern is straight forward, and a good quick afternoon sew before you head out to the beach!

I can't wait until I have the chance to make the Ruched Version, as I would ruch every single article of clothing I had if I could!  It's pretty and flattering, and gives me confidence - and that's what Sewing My Wardrobe is all about.

Grab yourself a copy of the pattern and swim suit fabric (while it's still available! Winter is COMING!), and Sew On!




 

Summer's Up with Laela Jeyne Pattern's Rose Circle Skirt and Dahlia Tank Top!

Some days it's nice to have some simple straight forward patterns for a quick sew.

Being able to sew with woven (aka non-stretch) fabrics is also a bonus, given half my fabric is just waiting to be used, but there aren't a lot of non-stretch patterns out there.

Having a nice Camisole style shirt with larger straps to cover my bra straps for work is also something I have been searching for recently.

Laela Jeyne has solved these dilemmas with two new patterns I had the pleasure of testing for recently!

The Dahlia Tank Top and Rose Circle Skirt 

This tank top is perfect to wear on its own or underneath a shirt like a camisole, and works well with thicker stretch cotton, t-shirt fabric, or any other knit fabric really. 

The bands should be a thicker knit with good recovery, otherwise it will look sloppy mid-way through the day.

It is a remarkably quick sew, but versatile pattern as far as functionality.  You can use one or two different fabrics (I opted for busy pandas on the back, and plain stretch cotton for the front), and make it as fancy or "everyday" as you like.

Tank and 16" length 1/2 circle Rose Skirt w/stretch knit fabrics

For me, the length and fit are perfect for making a cycling jersey with, and it will be simple enough to add pockets to the back for my granola bar and extra water pack!

It's not too tight, but not too loose, thus makes me feel comfortable wearing it while in frumpy non-Beachbody Winter mode - it has been the longest winter in eons here in Ottawa, Canada - it was still just above freezing at the beginning of June!

The arm and neck holes are perfect, and as usual, I top stitched to create a professional look.



Side with perfect armhole binding!

Ready for work with my Rose Skirt and Dalhia tank Top!

The Rose Skirt has a plethora of options as well - Maxi, knee, above knee, and too short for work (ha ha) lengths) along with different options for the band.

The band can sit either at the hips or the natural waist, which also will alter the look of the skirt, but also allows you to create the most flattering skirt for your body shape. 

I prefer A-line dresses and skirts as I have a smaller top and waist, then it all goes down to the hips and behind. I opted for the waist length band, and it's perfect! 

I created this black and white 16" length 1/2 circle skirt for work (or play!) from mystery Rayon knit from Fabricland, and a thicker stretch from Water Tower Textiles. My waist band is the same cute Panda stretch cotton from Okee Dokee Fabrics.  Technically this is the worst fabric for bands, as it has slow recovery, but I made it a bit smaller, and it sits proper with the resizing alterations.





Pretty as a flower! This outfit took maybe an hour to 1.5 hours to whip up!

My second Rose Skirt is also a 1/2 circle option (it was supposed to be the 1/4 circle, but I accidentally used the wrong pattern piece), but from a thicker mystery Fabricland woven linen. I added a zipper to the back (yay for zipper feet!), and it was another simple yet classic skirt to sew up.

Even with the zipper, from cutting to hemming, I spent under an hour creating this skirt for work the next day! 

Back of Linen Skirt

Front of Linen Skirt

Strike a pose!

Side Linen skirt

I absolutely love how these came together, and that there is another pattern out there for Ladies that allows me to use my non-knit woven fabrics! 

You can even use a stretch knit band with the woven skirt if you don't want to add in a zipper!

I'm looking forward to creating a maxi length 1/4 circle skirt from flowy fabric for the late summer/early fall. I feel that would just look stunning!

I am itching to try out Laela's entire Summer 2017 collection - and you should too! 

 

Oh, and TWIRL ON!

 

The Lily Woven blouse will be perfect for my non-stretch fabrics, and the Violet Swimsuit looks adorable with side cut outs (thinking I can hack in some Ruching too!). 

The Stunning Emma - Shirt and Layered Dress - Rebecca Page Patterns

Rebecca Page Patterns have to be the most delicate and soft patterns I have encountered to date.

Previously known as "Mummykins and Me," her patterns have evolved to include more than just childrens patterns, but patterns for the ladies, boys, and dolls as well.

Rebecca is based out of the UK, but she has worldwide helpers and fans.  No wonder I love her patterns - I have a thing for the Brits!

The Emma shirt/dress comes with several length options - Top (above hips), Tunic (below hips), and the option to add up to 3 layers for knee, calf, and floor length versions.  You can also sew up the sash, or opt to just use a belt.

I opted for the Top and Tunic versions, both using different fabric types.

As the pattern *is* flowy, do be prepared for sewing with a lot of fabric.  You can choose to use one fabric/pattern, or mix things up a bit, and use different fabrics for a bolder statement.

My first top was actually a Modcloth Dress that I tried to love for years, but the top part puffed out so much that I only wore it a handful of times.  I cut the dress apart, and used the beautiful chiffon print for the exterior layer, and the original slip fabric as the new slip fabric, neck line, and arm openings.

The Tunic length was next - with a random flowy, thin, soft, cotton fabric I obtained from my sister's old fabric stash. It is unlined.

I made two sashes - for the top, it twirls around me twice, with a cute bow at the side, front, or back; and the second one, I was tired, and only sewed the sash half the recommended length - but made it work, and it tied around my waist once, with a knotted end - I prefer the knots/bows to lay at the side.

My second top was definitely a quicker sew vs the first one, both because I didn't line the tunic version, and I was familiar with the pattern concept. 

This is one of the "easier" Rebecca Page patterns - and definitely a keeper!  I couldn't resist wearing both tops to work the day after making each of them - and received kudos both days.  Although created from the same pattern, with different fabric choices, it really DOES make a difference in the flow and feel. 

This pattern is very detailed with respect to how the fabric will fall and look on you - from chiffons and knits, to soft and cotton wovens - each fabric has its own look and feel.

Shirt Version makes its Canadian debut!

The dress versions do require quite a bit of fabric, however, they would be lovely for weddings, parties, and even a tropical vacation! 

I'm looking forward to creating a "slimmed" down version of the knee length dress (cutting less of the angle - less fabric, but more fitted), so I can make a lovely work dress from a few metres of linen I have been hoarding for awhile.

And of course, I will add in pockets - because who doesn't need pockets??  Speaking of pockets, I'll put my excitement out for Rebecca's pocket pattern tutorial set!  You MUST have it - because...POCKETS!

This pattern is for all sizes - from toddler to large handed adults - she didn't forget anyone! 

Each of Rebecca's patterns are created with precision and small details, making them challenging, but well worth it, as the end result leaves you making more than one - you can't have just one of any of her patterns! 

Twirl On!

The Gretel Skirt - It's all About The POCKETS with Mother Grimm Designs!

I love it when I can just totally embrace the inner child within, and others just go with it.

This will make sense to Doctor Who Fans

That's what happened while testing the fun Gretel Skirt for Mother Grimm Designs, located in the UK!

It was a quick test, but it was also a quick skirt to sew up with easy to follow direction.  The design was created for stretch jersey/knits, however, many of the testers ended up using not only stretch jersey, but non-stretch wovens mixed in the the knits for spectacular results!

This is a "panel" skirt, meaning, you are to use an uncut t-shirt panel - apparently they are sold as such, but I like to cut things up for repurposing, so most of my "panels" actually DO come from t-shirts, and I just colour block  around the edges to make it into a full "panel."

Neither my test skirt nor fancy skirt had panels, but I sure did use a mishmash of fabrics - each fabric pulling the colours and designs from the other - such a neat effect for an under-hour sew!

Mishmash test skirt

There are two smaller side panels, and the front and back panels - which can be reversed, just by twisting your skirt around to the other side!  It sits at your proper waist, so for myself, I don't feel overly hippy or large bottomed, as it is a rather flattering cut.

That's how I got away with wearing my Tardis skirt at work without feeling too dressed down.   And really - the POCKETS are so awesome, they held my work pass AND phone, and a bit of change for my required 2nd coffee of the day.

It also passed the wind test. Every girls' worst nightmare is having that light flowy dress or skirt...go up like Marilyn Munro in her famous white dress, all because of a wind gust.

Between my office building and the parking lot or mall (where I get my coffee or sit in during lunchtime), the wind can gust me away like Mary Poppins 3 out of the 5 days a week I am there.  It did this while I wore my Gretel skirt, and due to the size of the panels, it did NOT blow up.  There was some rippling, but I didn't have to hold my skirt down!

A skirt you can whirl in that stays down in the wind (and has POCKETS) is a must in every girl's closet!

So, if you have some bits and bobs of fabric that you are coveting because it's too small for a full item, Gretel allows you to use these smaller fabric pieces as side panels, pockets, or even the waistband!

Gretel can be as fun or as serious as you want it - a panel is fun, but not required.  I can only imagine this as a Christmas Dress, with big pockets to hold goodies in, perhaps with a lace overlay on the sides. Or it can be hiked up over your chest, and worn as a dress (with a few alterations, like lengthening the skirt and lowering the pockets) with or without straps added on.

I am now eyeing Mother Grimm's Dragon Wings (which I wish were adult size....although I could always trace a larger patten), but feel that I will dive into the Adult Coif (face hood for the winter) with add ons like animal ears or a pixie cut when I'm ready for new patterns.

For now, I will OCD over Gretel. I feel I need one for every day of the week!

Gnome Tried to hide in my side pocket!

The Belle of the Daily Ball - The Amelia Shirt & Dress - Bella Sunshine Designs

When I saw the video of a woman spinning in a field with a perfectly spinning dress, deep (but not too deep) neck and backline, and forgiving flow when not moving (aka ability to hide those bumps and lumps!), I was sold on the Amelia Dress created by Bella Sunshine Designs.


Once I finished my top, I even did a graceful video of myself twirling and doing Mario Brothers moves at the end!

Bella Sunshine Designs creates vintage-inspired clothing patterns, that offer different options, a variety of sizes, and a lot of work behind the scenes to bring them forward to the general public.

I have a lovely hour glass figures, and nothing is making these hips ever go away, so instead, I will sew to flatter them.

Before I tried my first Peplum style pattern, I was against Peplum styles due to my hippy hips and big thighs, until I started sewing them - the wonderful thing about PDF patterns, is you can grade patterns to fit you! 

The awesome thing about the Amelia pattern - no grading required for me!  As the band lies underneath the bust line, and the skirt flares outwards, pending you are using the proper fabrics (stretch knit), there should be no issues with the skirt hugging your hips or thighs  - it will flow with you, and really accentuate your natural bust and waistline. 

I was fortunate enough to test Amelia to help work out any final tweaks and issues, and together, our group helped Danielle and Melissa hone in on the perfect design.  They were lovely to work with, and took everyone's input and life into consideration during the process.

This pattern shows you the basics - how to measure yourself, printing and cutting of the pattern, how to layer the pattern for your perfect fit, basic terminology, finished measurements, and photo examples. 

The Amelia consists of:

- Shirt (hip), knee, or maxi length

- Sleeveless, short sleeve, 3/4 sleeve, or long sleeve

- Top requires knit stretch fabric

- Skirt can be either stretch or woven fabric, as it is sewn to the stretch knit below-bust band


If you are feeling too exposed at the back or front, you can add in a panel of stretch lace to keep the glam, but feel more covered up - the options are limitless.  I feel lace would be a sultry addition to the back and really dress it up more! Or attempt a corset-style back if you know how to make spaghetti straps.

Want pockets? If you know how to sew in side pockets, they can easily be sewn into the side seam - just determine where your hands sit, and go from there.  It may make more sense in the knee or maxi length, otherwise, they would be awkward elbow hinged pockets in the shirt version.

The more you learn while sewing and honing in your skills, the more your imagination runs wild!

The only steps I had troubles with both times around, thanks to my brain fog, was step 6. It's a doozy, so make sure you read it thrice and ensure your fabric sides and lining/fabric are placed as in the picture. No one likes bringing their ripper out!

Other than that one step, I have had no issues sewing up Amelia.  and hey, Husband loves the boobilicious end result. 

Whether you are hourglass shaped, straight hipped, or apple shaped, this design is flattering and can be made for play, work, or even fancy it up for a black tie event!

For my first Amelia, I made the Shirt Version with 3/4 length sleeves - it fell just at my hips, giving me just enough coverage and comfort while wearing it, but still showing off a bit of my booty from behind.

Back



Serious Front

I opted to bring out the geek within, and used all Water Tower Textiles Fabrics thanks to the lovely Patty!  She brought in several meters of Mario Brothers stretch knit for her Facebook Group and limited us to 1-2 meters per person so as many loyal customers as possible could take advantage of her findings.

Along with Mario, I paired it with her new Heather Denim Cotton Spandex, which is a medium thickness, yet flowy knit, that is both easy to work with, and flows evenly.  It doesn't droop, but isn't too stiff - so perfect for Amelia!

I brought out the Mario Within!

My second Amelia was sleeveless, as I was lacking sleeveless shirts.  Husband also approves of this version.

I repurposed an Old Navy dress I looked awful in, random stretch black knit for the band, and some sweet complimentary chiffon type fabric for the skirt part. It it fun to wear, and looks cute with shorts, jeans, leggings, or a pencil style skirt. 

Overall, as long as you take your tie and follow each step, Amelia comes together in an afternoon - and the results are divine.

***I am a Bella Sunshine Designs Affiliate, and promote designs I love - I am not part of BSD

Sew Like My Mom - The Ficus Cardigan!

I partook n a Sew-a-long for Sew Like My Mom's Ficus Cardigan back in March, and I was only one of three people to complete their cardigan (aka blazer), winning a $10 credit for a fabric store in the United States that escapes my mind.

Despite the lack of completed entries, I surprisingly LOVE this pattern.  I didn't feel that Peplum shaped anything would look good on me, but this cardigan (which I call a Blazer) is perfect for work! 

It was a really quick and easy sew, and I wear it at least once a week to work now. It would also be cute in a print for a night on the town or just to dress up a t-shirt and jeans.

The Ficus Cardigan is your perfect year-round light layer! Its sweet peplum and large collar offer unique details to enhance its simple design. Enjoy short sleeves when the weather is warm, elbow length for days when you need a little more coverage, and long sleeves for the chillier days. The optional tie creates the perfect finishing detail for an easy, polished look. This cardi is sure to steal your heart and become a favorite!

Available in short, elbow, or long sleeves, this peplum cardi will get you through the year!

This PDF pattern features 48 pages of color photos and detailed instructions for sewists of all skill levels. 9 sizes are included, from XXS to 3XL.

Here is my quick sew up step-by-step via Pictures Pages!

Fabrics chosen and pattern cut out!

Bodice sewn

The Peplum is on!

Adding the arms!

Arms attached

Front collar added



Sewing the hem!

Who needs one bely, when you can have two??



Sporting Ficus with Paris Party Dress Top



Ca fin!

I love it. The fabric helps to - it's a thicker knit that I got at Fabricland Kanata when it was closing down. At $2 a metre, I had to get a whackload of it.


I recommend sewing up the Ficus to fancy up your wardrobe!