Sticking with What Works

I'm all for trying new things but sometimes you have to just stick with what works. So when a nice piece of vintage fabric came my way, I knew I wanted to stick with a tried and true pattern so there was not chance of sewing failure.

I used Simplicity 2851 c. 1949. This is the 4th time I've made up this pattern! (1) (2) (3)

I love the kimono sleeves, cute collar and flattering shape!

 If you have a really great pattern, you can make it up several times without it looking too much like the same dress. Different materials, the use of print vs. solids and adding optional details really changes up the look.

Of course, chopping off your hair also helps to diversify the look! lol!

I really do adore this new dress! It's perfect for work and oh, so comfortable!

What's your favorite tried and true sewing pattern?

The Gingerbread Dress

I've been sewing! I started this late 40s dress last month but then got distracted by other things instead of hemming it. So I finally finished this dress and dubbed it the Gingerbread Dress because all of the brown reminds me of that yummy holiday treat.

I used a combination of my favorite late 40s dress pattern Simplicity 2851 but with the hip flap detail thingy from Simplicity 2502.

I choose some vintage mother of pearl buttons and brown linen/rayon blend for the accent to coordinate with this great brown wool.

Originally, I had a suit in mind for this wool but when it arrived it was much too thin and drapey so I went for a dress instead.

I had a really great hair day! I cut my hair last week and I'm loving the shorter look.

I also parted my hair a but more towards the center than usually and I'm shocked at the difference it makes in the look. Might have to start parting my hair this way all the time.

Whenever I give up growing out my hair and chop it, I always wonder why I started growing it out in the first place. I love me in short hair!

Alas, it wasn't actually this warm outside so this is what I was really wearing to be warm.

I probably didn't need the scarf but it was windy so the scarf protected my curls.

Overall, I'm so happy with this dress! It's a great light weight dress for spring and summer.

A Touch of Western

I'm not really big on anything western or country or farm, but I do go to church in a barn so it had to happen sooner or later.

I've wanted a blue chambray dress for summer for a while and I'm so happy I finally made one!

 

Fabric: blue chambray cotton ($5/yd)
Pattern: Simplicity 2851
Year: 1949
Notions: western style buttons, zipper, belt kit
Hours to complete: 6
First worn: May 2012
Total cost: ~$25
 

I just adore this pattern! Late 1940s looks are so flattering. I've also made a winter version of this dress. Don't you love reusing patterns? I've been keeping an eye out for patterns that have both short and long sleeved options so they'll work for both summer and winter.

I found a set of vintage "pearls" among my stuff that's still at my parents' house a while back and I really like them! They are a bit daintier than my other faux pearls and will be great for summer.

I bought these metal western buttons on a whim at Costume College. They go great with the blue chambray for just a touch of country.

I know that this will be a favorite all summer!