Inspiration...Tie-Neck Blouse

A lovely version of a tie-neck blouse -

This is the Diana Leopard Printed Silk Tie-Neck Blouse by Lafayette 148 New York.  Price: $598.00.  Details:  Spread collar with self tie straps, concealed button front, long sleeves with button cuffs, center back box pleat, relaxed fit, shirt tail hem.  For a closer look, head over to Neiman Marcus and do a search.

This is really a lovely blouse.  However, the price tag is way outside my comfort zone.  Use this pattern:

This is the Grainline Studio Archer pattern.  This is a classic button-down shirt.  I know I pull this one out for every shirt in this style but it is in my collection.  Use whatever pattern you own or have fitted.  As far as the concealed button front instructions, there are links to a couple of tutorials here.  For the neck tie, I generally just cut a strip the width of the fabric, stitch it, and turn.  Here's another option for the shirt:

This is the Classic Shirt by Liesl & Co.  Although this pattern gives you the same basic silhouette as the Archer, this one has a darts which will give it a better fit.

What are your thoughts on the return of blouse with high waisted pants?  So far, I am liking this and hope it stays around for a long while.   Hope you're inspired to make something beautiful.

Happy Stitching!

Weekly Timeless Wardrobe, Week 18

Week 18 of the Weekly Timeless Wardrobe have arrived.  You can find Week 18 here.  The introduction chart is always a good place to start if you are just now bumping into this series.  Note: as the series progresses, the chart changes a wee bit.  It should be shown on the weekly posting at the bottom.

This week's item is corduroy pants in a dark neutral.  They could also be canvas or velvet just no denim.  Although a pair of elastic waist corduroy pants would be nice, I have decided not to replace the black jeans.  Yes, I understand that they are denim but I have far more pants than anything else in my closet.  I would rather apply that money toward some additional tops/blouses whether I decide to make them or buy them.

Here's my black jeans:

These are Everday Straight Jean Relaxed Fit by Christopher and Banks.  These jeans sit at the natural waist and are very comfortable.   Just head over to the Christopher and Banks website for a closer look at the various styles of jeans/pants.


Are you following along with this series?  How are you using this to help with your wardrobe?  Any additional helpful information?

Happy Stitching!

Inspiration...Oversized Coat

I found this lovely coat and just had to share.  It is just about perfect in my eyes:

This is Lafayette 148 New York Lebell One-Button Luxe Cashmere Coat.  Price tag: $1998.00.  Details:  Notch Collar, single button front, oversized silhouette, knee length. 

The price on this coat is way outside my comfort zone.  As much as I love the collar, I could only see myself wearing it with black or gray.  However that is the reason we sew, so we can create things we love in the color we want.  Here's some pattern thoughts:

This is Vogue 9289.  It has the oversized collar but it would need to altered to have a single button front and remove the excess fullness.

This is Simplicity 8798.  This silhouette does a much better job matching the inspiration photo.  Unfortunately, the collar isn't a good match.  Maybe the collar isn't that big of a deal. 

If you know of a better pattern for this silhouette, please let me know.

Happy Stitching!

Inspiration...Layering Tunic or Not

Here's a lovely little tunic to think about:

This is the Don't Think Twice by Nic & Zoe.  Price Tag: $168.00.  This tunic sweater comes with a dickey.  For a closer look check the Nic & Zoe website.

Here's a pattern that would work well to duplicate the look:

This is the V-Neck Tunic pattern by Loes Hinse Designs.  It can be found on the Casual Elegance Website.  This is a nice pattern.  You could use a ribbed knit to make your own version.  Changes would be lengthen and add pockets, if you choose.

Hope you're inspired to create something beautiful.

Happy Sewing!

Weekly Timeless Wardrobe, Week 17

Week 17 of the Weekly Timeless Wardrobe have arrived.  You can find Week 17 here.  The introduction chart is always a good place to start if you are just now bumping into this series.  Note: as the series progresses, the chart changes a wee bit.  It should be shown on the weekly posting at the bottom.

This week's item is a cotton turtleneck in a print or pattern.  Obviously, it should be in the colors choosen for your wardrobe.  This week I looked to the closet for inspiration and I found it:

I believe I found this at Kohl's last year.  It's still in very good condition.  The colors of blue and white are perfect for my wardrobe.  Other items that could be considered are blouses and buttondowns.  

Are you following along with this series?  How are you using this to help with your wardrobe?  Any additional helpful information?

Happy Stitching!