Here's the pattern photo, as I wrote before, I think it's too big for the the model. I wanted it to look more like it does on the runway so I made a few changes to pattern.
First, I lengthened the darts, front and back. The originals are about 1.5 inches long- the longer darts give a neater look to the blouson shape. I also reversed the closure so I could wear the opening at the front. I also adjusted the shape of the skirt which I'll show later.
I can wear it either way.
The sleeves (pinned on) are very full and will have a cuff that keeps them puffed, the leaner shape of the blouse is better for me with those full sleeves.
Here's a side view. I found this wonderful Italian double knit at the fabric district in Los Angeles, it's perfect except that it shines at the mere sight of the iron- I'm having to press very carefully.
Sleeves attached, first real try-on- the fabric is perfect and moves like it does on the runway. I love this design on the body, it has a very fresh look about it.
The sleeves are fantastic, they hang like couture should and create a beautiful shape. So far, I'm loving this more than I thought I would.
Who needs to make their own jeans? I don't. There are plenty of ready to wear jeans that I can squeeze myself into out there, not to mention how they inspire diet and exercise after I've seen myself in the dressing room mirror. So why make my own? Maybe it's the challenge, or just to do something a bit different, you see, I don't machine embroider- I topstitch! Palmer/Pletsch designed these classic fit jeans and wrote some very detailed instructions for fitting them to your desired shape. There are quite a few good jeans patterns to be had, I bought these because I have a fitting video by P/P that is thorough and inspiring. The pattern does not disappoint, fitting tips are clear and do help to smooth those wrinkles.
This is an example of one the pages of fitting instructions, you can see that it starts with the pattern tissue then continues onto the fabric itself. You won't have any surprises if you follow the simple steps.
Here's the front of the pants. I used topstitching threads around pockets and regular thread everywhere else. When you do it yourself, you do it "your" way.
Ahh, the back. I sort of wish I had put the pockets a little further apart, but the side seams don't get sewn up until the end, and I always think I'm smaller than I really am ;-0.
Here's another reason to make your own, I saw jeans in this fabric at Nordstrom and they were over $200- these will cost me $30.00, I get the fun of making then and save the $170.00!
If you enjoy playing around with your sewing machine, and you want a fun project, give making your "custom" jeans a try.
So why aren't they finished? Five more pounds, that's my story and I'm sticking to it.
Did you see the new Vogue Patterns? There are quite a few that are worth getting excited about, don't you think? But...I see some photographs don't flatter the designs at all. Take Vogue 1284, and no, I don't have any affiliation with the Guy Laroche house.
Dumpy, isn't it? Looks like the outfit is wearing the model. Since Guy Laroche patterns always fit with minimum alterations, I always give them a closer look. After searching through Style.com videos; I found the show, and LOVE the design. You can watch it here at 2:48, this ensemble is in two versions with the top reversed.
I love it, don't you? It's taking a top position in my sewing queue. I really like the reversible top, Vogue doesn't explain that feature. Speaking of Vogue, I've been thinking of letting go of my subscription, I've always looked to them for fashion inspiration and they're moving toward a weak imitation of Threads while downplaying high fashion.
Now I'm working on jeans and altering a pattern for a Chanel jacket. I'll write about the Claire Shaeffer class there. I loved it!!!!!!
