I was thinking about the things I've made recently and what I actually wear the most and my linen Simplicity 2365 came to mind. I wear it often. It's sturdy, the fit is great and it's black- I can wear it with anything. I've been trying to beef up my work wardrobe lately. I've made many dresses and things that I can't actually wear to work, so I decided to make 2365 again. I need things I can wear around children and paint.
This time I made view A, the longer, tunic length with 3/4 length sleeves. I lined up my pintucks with the gingham and tried to match them as closely as possible. They are almost invisible (so what was the point?) I used a shirting I bought from fabric.com dirt cheap. I think I paid about $2 a yard, so total cost of this shirt is about $6. I love it when I make something for so little! I feel I've outsmarted mass retail stores. 
It's all lovely french seams again on the inside. I sewed the collar on by hand to avoid the issues I had last time. Pretty straightforward and quick the second time around. This is a really nice top. I haven't had much luck with Simplicity patterns fitting properly, but this one fits nicely without any changes. I think the pintucks actually give the top quite a bit of shape, drawing it in at the bust and waist. On another note, I'm not so sure about the leggings. I wore this to work, even after I read Peter's post and all the comments about jeggings. I haven't worn leggings since I was, um-- nine?. They were comfortable, but I had a strange feeling all day-- like I wasn't actually wearing any pants at all (trousers for those of you across the pond). Not sure I'll rock them again.
I also tried to be as stylishly unique as verypurpleperson and put just one different colored button on. It didn't quite translate to chic-- just art teacher crafty. I was asked several times if I ran out of buttons. I'll be putting on another white one next time I wear it.
My pintucks are much better the second time around, if I do say so myself :) Not quite so organic.
All in all, I do really like the top. I highly recommend the pattern. It's great for an easy going, wearable shirt-- just wear it with real pants :) Thanks for reading!
Very nice work. Your leggings are fine, at least you leave something to be imagination. I know what you mean about how it feels wearing them. I wear them to bed when it is cold or sometimes to the gym.
ReplyDeleteThe odd button. Personally, I think it is groovy, I love a bit of assymetry. I also love that it matches your shoes. All those people that ask if you ran out of buttons probably just buy mass produced clothing with clear buttons.
ReplyDeleteThe leggings looks good. I like wearing leggings because it means I can wear shorter dressees than if I didn't...and not worry if I have to bend in funny positions to reach my kids.
I like the odd button and the leggings. I always think leggings look a bit arty, groovy and fun when worn this way. I also think they look great with this style of shirt-dress. I say, ditch the pants and keep the leggings.
ReplyDeleteI know what you mean about feeling silly about the button. But the only reason you feel a bit silly is because you made it yourself. I sometimes think we can be unnecessarily self-conscious of our homemade garments. Bottom line is if you'd bought it like that you probably feel groovy and a bit cutting edge. Keep the button and wear it proudly!
The leggings actually seem fine to me! My only problem with them is if you wear something to short on top or if the waistband does not keep them up properly...
ReplyDeleteYour top is very very nice, and I like the effect of the pin tucks on a printed fabric. I became a French Seams fan in the past few weeks, so Yeay for French Seams!
Love your top, i think it looks great with the leggings but i know what you mean about wearing them though. Hope you have a great weekend!
ReplyDeleteWell thanks, sewing friends-- You've made me regain confidence in my choice of bottoms and my odd button. I personally like both the descriptors "arty" and "groovy" so I shall keep the blue button.
ReplyDeleteI'm guilty of wearing leggings all the time! They're so easy and perfect under my short dresses. I feel weird wearing pants :P
ReplyDeleteThe pintucks look like one of those visual illusion! Are they there, or are they not? They're so neat!
I think the leggings look great---they go so well with long shirts/short dresses. (That being said, I don't own any leggings...)
ReplyDeleteMaybe make some matching green button earrings or other green jewelry to highlight the intentionality of the green button? (though you'd think the shoes would do that... grrr people.)
It's such a lovely piece! I like the colorful buttons and pleats! They are neat. It looks so good on you!!
ReplyDeleteIt's lovely! You're now a part of my "I love-list" on my blog ;)
ReplyDeletewow! your outfit looks great, thank you so much for posting. I have that pattern and never gave it much thought, not sure if the finished shirt would be worth the amount of work it would take, until I saw your shirts. I *LOVE* both versions you made, and will try one in linen.
ReplyDelete