The moment has arrived.
Others chronicle it on their blogs, these realizations of sewing horror.
While unpacking from our recent trip abroad, I found myself looking into my closet, pleased with myself and my menagerie of makes. (Nearly 100% of my skirts and dresses are now handmade!) Pretty colors, interesting silhouettes abounding.
But as I looked closer I realized that there are makes in there that I haven't worn since I finished them - and a few I haven't worn at all! They were great projects for learning a technique or practicing fabric placement, but despite my efforts to only make things I'll wear, they haven't had their public christenings.
Reflection on what I tend to wear led to me realize that I love to make fitted dresses but tend to wear those that are a slightly looser silhouette. I love the challenge of a tailored fit, but prefer to be comfortable when running around campus and sitting/standing at the piano all day.
So, that's realization number 1.
I've made plenty of warm-weather skirts that don't get as much wear as anticipated. They aren't too short, though they are above knee length. I don't wear them as much because they are so colorful that I have to plan what I'll wear with them.
So, that's realization number 2.
Others chronicle it on their blogs, these realizations of sewing horror.
While unpacking from our recent trip abroad, I found myself looking into my closet, pleased with myself and my menagerie of makes. (Nearly 100% of my skirts and dresses are now handmade!) Pretty colors, interesting silhouettes abounding.
But as I looked closer I realized that there are makes in there that I haven't worn since I finished them - and a few I haven't worn at all! They were great projects for learning a technique or practicing fabric placement, but despite my efforts to only make things I'll wear, they haven't had their public christenings.
Reflection on what I tend to wear led to me realize that I love to make fitted dresses but tend to wear those that are a slightly looser silhouette. I love the challenge of a tailored fit, but prefer to be comfortable when running around campus and sitting/standing at the piano all day.
So, that's realization number 1.
Work clothes should have more ease.
I've made plenty of warm-weather skirts that don't get as much wear as anticipated. They aren't too short, though they are above knee length. I don't wear them as much because they are so colorful that I have to plan what I'll wear with them.
So, that's realization number 2.
Make more coordinating basics.
Cold weather baffles my dressing. I hate the feeling of tucking long sleeves into long sleeves. Wool and my sensitive skin do not get along, so sweaters and I tend to avoid one another. Almost everything I make is sleeveless because I constantly shift from hot/cold throughout the day. For this reason, cardigans are a staple in my wardrobe.
And, if I'm being truthful, I make sleeveless garments because I hate setting in sleeves.
So, that's realization number 3.
Work on your sleeve technique this winter.
To work towards a fully handmade wardrobe whose collection will be equally worn, I've set my eye on a few patterns.
For more ease
V1316. Great for work and stash-busting.
M6952. I bought a striped crepe in Mexico last year that would make a beautiful maxi dress.
More coordinating basics
To start, I'm going to make some jeans. I made a pair of Ginger jeans before, but they are a little too skinny for my taste. (and current shape...sigh)
Sleeve technique
I've got a good handle on sleeves in knit fabrics, so I'll focus on wovens.
B5981 calls to the 1940's, and I think the raised back neckline will work well in the cold.
M6645 is another great stash-buster, and a good chance to practice print coordination.
V1404 would make a great Easter dress. I have some coral linen I've been hoarding FOREVER.
Perhaps a jacket is in order as well. I have a great out-of-print Vogue pattern that would work perfectly.
Here's to making 2016 a year of special yet practical makes!
