This blouse was made out of a Liberty print I had saved for almost 2 years, much like the Nani Iro fabric. I had originally intended it for Sadie (sorry, honey) and then thought about how cute it would be made into tap pants for myself, and then thought about maybe making it into a belt (I think I still might have enough for that) and then a men's shirt (but I only had enough for contrasting details) and then—without really giving it much thought, cut it out for Simplicity 2599 and made it. I am really happy with this pattern. There are so many ways to do this type of detail. I want to try an asymmetrical placement with the ruffle next, and a ruffle in a contrasting print would look very sharp on a solid color shirt. A stripe or polka-dotted ruffle? Something like that.
It's fitted—not too loose or tight, which is nice. Darts in front give it some shape.
And my favorite blouse closure is in back. I love this type of closure. So easy. I use a covered hair elastic for the button loop, which works like a charm.
I have to say, the weight of Liberty fabric is like nothing else. I would not sew this blouse in anything other than a super-lightweight fabric. I get pretty fussy about quilting-weight cottons being used for garment sewing—unless it's a skirt or a more structured dress. Liberty is a dream to sew with. Totally worth the high price in my book. Locally, there is Liberty at Bolt and probably other shops, too, maybe Josephine's? This particular print was purchased at Purl fabrics. They always have a great selection.
- I'm excited to try this dress over at Burda Style. I know I just made a dress very similar, but this one has great pockets. And what cute photography! Except you can't really see the dress that well. But still, I love the happy.
- Debating if I should sew a coat like this for Sadie. I think I can make it for less than buying, but not a ton less. Ugh. See, if I sew it, I will have to sew one for Delia, even though she has about 4 hand-me-downs that will work this Fall. Baby will get an old towel, she doesn't know. Only half joking. Actually she does know, but I am in denial about her alarming interest in clothes for a just turned 2-year old. I just re-read that last sentence and realize the apple doesn't fall far from the tree. Ahem.
