Spring (ish)

Despite some unsettled weather hereabouts it seems that Spring may finally be here to stay. It's a real mood brightener after a long pandemic slog, and time to make a few new things. Like a lot of folks, pandemic pounds have been added, but luckily most of the old wardrobe still (mostly) fits -- let's have a rousing cheer for knits! At any rate, it's always nice to have a few new bits to liven up what's already there, and here are a few of mine.

The Fitzroy blouse from Liesl + Co. Fabric is a slubbed cotton from Fabric Mart. I was drawn to this pattern by the neckline and the sleeve pleats which give a slight ruffled cuff appearance. It won't be worn when summer heat hits us, but for right now - and when Autumn approaches - it fits the bill. I shortened the body by about 1.5 inches and took the shoulder seam in about 1/4 inch. I generally wear shirts untucked, and even with shortening this one is very near tunic length on me and I am 5'7". In retrospect I could have gone down a size, but I have reached the age where I appreciate comfort over being stylish -- so be it.

Here's a closer look at the sleeve - the tucks don't go all the way around the bottom of the sleeve, but are on the outer edge. 

I had some cotton/Lycra jersey - also from Fabric Mart - in a color I felt was a good addition to the wardrobe so I sewed up a quick tee. Pattern is my TNT knit top, Pamela's Patterns Perfect Tee. To change things up a bit I added a gathered portion to the bottom of the elbow-length sleeve. I think I may be re-doing the bottom of the shirt by adding a non-gathered band instead of having it curved and hemmed. The fabric is just too light to stay nicely in place and wants to flip up - which is something I just can't stand. 

Last summer I made the Lacey dress from Style Arc and it was such a nice addition to the closet that I decided to make another. I used a cotton sateen print, alleged to be navy, but showing definite purple tendencies. This was also a Fabric Mart purchase (I'm guessing I hit a sale for cotton fabrics?). It was a quick and easy make the second time around, and will earn it's keep when the weather gets really warm.

Like the previous Lacey, I lengthened the bodice. It still hits above the waist, but not as near the bust. My only deviation from the pattern was not to cuff the sleeves.

And finally, a garment that can do double duty as a dress or a duster. It's Simplicity 8992 made in a not too heavy striped double knit. I'm guessing this was from Fabric Mart also and is a rayon blend. Made view 3 with 3/4 length sleeves. Instead of buttons (um, really didn't want to make them in a knit fabric) I used snaps. Easy peasy. If worn as a dress it needs a tank underneath for my peace of mind. I envision mostly wearing it as an unbelted duster though. Still, it's nice to have choices!

I do have a few things I hope to make up that are in more "traditional" Spring colors, but these days I sew to please myself alone and in colors that suit me if not the season. And why do otherwise? 😀