Project Sewn, Vogue Pattern 2356, Perry Ellis

PROJECT SEWN |A FAVOURITE FASHION ICON…

{Pants – Perry Ellis Vogue Pattern 2356 {you can see the coat here
Hat – Revisions ECO Fashions – Made in BC Canada}
 


Hallo!  The theme for Project Sewn this first week is favourite fashion icon.  I mused over this a bit; I mean I can’t really say that my personal style follows any single fashion icon. What I can attest to, is that  hands down, without question, Diane Keaton as Annie Hall was the first, and perhaps only, fashion icon that I’ve intentionally copied.  I have a very clear memory of shopping in the Salvation Army, long, long before it was cool, rummaging through the menswear aisles, returning home with vests, ties, and baggy pants.  Annie Hall’s dapper dress code was based on Diane’s personal style…menswear inspired, unique, and sometimes quirky.  Diane is still rockin’ the dandy look today…the vests, ties, hats, oxfords, belts, and masculine silhouettes.  So, in honor of my early days experimenting with personal style, I couldn’t not choose Diane as my inspiration.  

Of course, this would be the week that my sewing did not go smoothly.  I had big moderate plans for an outfit complete with handmade hat.  That all went sideways after the little fiasco with the serger gaily scissoring my trouser leg.  As I saw it, there where two choices…Plan A, scrap the trousers and move on, or Plan B, make a wrong a right….Oh wait, cries me…there is Plan C.  Spend far too much time sighing and looking at said trousers, and then spend an equally excessive amount of time on Pinterest bissfully ignoring the whole thing. Yep, I  lost my oomph, my mojo, my game.  Honestly, I was tempted to toss the half finished project into a corner, allowing it to wallow in self pity.  The fabric, purchased at a thrift store for a few dollars, wasn’t a huge investment.  Meh, I’ve paid more for a coffee and a croissant, but the truth is that I was smitten with the dark tints of this plaid.  But…there ain’t no extra fabric the little voice cried.  Uh uh, ’tis true, so what was I to do?  Well, I did me some serious alteration to the pattern.  Gone are the wide legged, pleated Perry Ellis trousers and, why hello, now we have a slimmer legg-ed, non-pleated pair of pants.  Because the hole in the fabric was only about an inch from the side seam, I was able to re-sew the side seams creating a narrower silhouette.   In the end, I think it works, but only time will tell if the experience has dampened the love affair.  When I struggle with a sewing project, or any creative project for that matter, it often feels like all the angst gets woven right into the fabric.      

Okay, I patched things up well enough to put together this inspired outfit.  Not a whole heck of a lot of sewing, just the pants and the tie….and sheesh, this is but one goofy tie.  Whatever you do, do NOT look closely at that tie.  It’s merely a prop, a sham. It’s not so much a tie, as a lie.  I’m also painfully aware that the pants are hemmed a little too short.  I was trying to hem them to a length that would allow me to wear the shoes I have on, or my low heeled oxfords, but I may have to let the hem down.  Thoughts?  As much as I like the individual pieces here, {not the tie, just a reminder} I kinda think that the menswear look is no longer for me. All I can think of is getting lighter and brighter for spring.  Now tell me please?  Do you have a favourite fashion icon?  

And while we’re on the subject of favourite fashion icons, I must say that the lovely Judith of Style Crone is a haute hat fashion icon extraordinaire!   I am delighted to be linking up with her monthly Hat Attack!  Oh, and the handmade hat I spoke of?  Yep, it’s languishing in the corner, but I shall attempt to bring it back to life. 


Linking up with:

Project Sewn
Tres Chic Style Bits
Hat Attack
Feather’s Flights: You Flew

 


Won’t you please…


 

76 Comments

  • Reply hostess of the humble bungalow February 1, 2014 at 10:35 am

    I am impressed by your creative talent and as a fan of Annie Hall and Diane Keaton I love her take on men's wear. You look adorable!

  • Reply Rosemary the Shopper February 1, 2014 at 11:17 am

    Must admit, I do love Diane Keaton's style too. Especially Annie Hall, although I'm not sure whether it was the clothes or the dialogue. Have always liked her style in any of her movies. I especially liked her in “Something's Gotta Give” (I think that was the title) with Jack Nicholson.

    Cheers from England,
    Rosemary from http://www.foreveronthecatwalkoflife.blogspot.com

  • Reply Sue @ A Colourful Canvas February 1, 2014 at 11:30 am

    Thanks Hostess! And doesn't Diane just keep getting better!

  • Reply Sue @ A Colourful Canvas February 1, 2014 at 11:30 am

    Ditto! I really loved both Diane and Jack in Something's Gotta Give.

  • Reply Dorothy DotDot February 1, 2014 at 11:36 am

    Very nice!

  • Reply Sue @ A Colourful Canvas February 1, 2014 at 11:44 am

    Hey Dorothy! Thanks for popping in and commenting!

  • Reply Dorothy DotDot February 1, 2014 at 12:04 pm

    I left a note. The machine is a Singer 500A.

  • Reply ann wood February 1, 2014 at 2:02 pm

    Creative and interesting questions Sue. I like the outfit but I think I like it best without the hat. I like seeing your lovely curls to balance out the masculine. Very cool pattern mixing and great colors. Really great pictures, lovely vivid color and fun post.

    blue hue wonderland

  • Reply oonaballoona February 1, 2014 at 3:14 pm

    YESSSSS! mizz keaton came to my mind as well, i've made six maxi skirts inspired by her look in “family stone.” you NAILED it.

  • Reply Carelia Moran February 1, 2014 at 5:12 pm

    You have some serious skills my lady!!! I truly love and admire your creativity and of course your sense of humor. This boyish look is fantastic.
    Xo
    Carelia
    MySmallWardrobe.com

  • Reply amy mayen February 1, 2014 at 5:19 pm

    Sue, you're such a perfectionist! Nobody noticed the tie, stop telling on yourself!! I love that you chose Diane as your fashion icon. She's a terribly brilliant woman. I can totally see the inspiration, even if your pants are an inch less wide than you I tended:) how on earth did you get your plaid to match up like that?!!

  • Reply Sue @ A Colourful Canvas February 1, 2014 at 6:28 pm

    I agree completely Ann! Hatless equals more feminine, and I like that very much. It didn't help that I schlumped the hat on at the end of photos…I think I need a personal stylist, LOL.

  • Reply cindy the cottage chick February 1, 2014 at 6:28 pm

    Work it Girl! Totally awesome combo! And still T! 🙂

  • Reply Sue @ A Colourful Canvas February 1, 2014 at 6:30 pm

    Thanks bunches Oona. It's nice to see you have a moment to sneak away from your sewing. I'm looking forward to Monday's runway show!

  • Reply Sue @ A Colourful Canvas February 1, 2014 at 6:31 pm

    Now here is the lady that totally rocks the boyish look! Nobody better than you my dear!

  • Reply Sue @ A Colourful Canvas February 1, 2014 at 6:32 pm

    I KNOW! Not once, but twice. Honestly, I was surprised the plaid lined up the second time around, because my patience was definitely fading with the light.

  • Reply Sue @ A Colourful Canvas February 1, 2014 at 6:33 pm

    Thanks Cindy…it feels like the tie takes me out of T1…when I took off the tie and the hat, I felt way better.

  • Reply Glenda February 1, 2014 at 10:16 pm

    Sue this is too adorable. Here is the crazy thing…my first look for this coming week is inspired by the Dandy. I will probably post it on Monday. Maybe Sunday. I havent devided yet. I wish I could sew. I love Diane Keaton's style.

  • Reply sabine February 2, 2014 at 1:33 am

    You got the look amazingly Sue! I love the films with Diane Keaton and the style of Annie Hall. Particularly high waisted pantes with suspenders and vests. What I also love is your pattern mix. The two checkered patterns go together so well. You look fabulous dear!
    Sabine xxx

  • Reply Vix February 2, 2014 at 2:18 am

    You look incredible, I adore Annie Hall's style and the fact you've made those pieces blow me away! xxx

  • Reply Cheryl February 2, 2014 at 5:57 am

    So glad you don't love the tie, because the first thought through my brain when I looked at the first photo, was Aaaacck! Lose the tie! Good save on the pants, though. I would've had a hissy fit and chucked the whole project in the trash.

  • Reply pastcaring February 2, 2014 at 6:25 am

    Diane Keaton's style in Annie Hall is so iconic, and you have really caught the vibe perfectly, Sue! Despite your issues with the trousers, you did an amazing job. I'd love to see you wear them with braces and a plain shirt too. As always, I am completely in awe of your sewing skills! xxx

  • Reply M. Edwards February 2, 2014 at 9:08 am

    You. Sew. 'Nuff said.

    To my untrained, non-sweing eyes, the whole outfit screams fun and fabulous, even the tie. Then again, I like quirky things and may not be the best litmus test. It certainly is a riot of color and the pattern mixing is to die for. I did a whole week of plaid last week and am experiencing minor aftershocks of love for the pattern. I'm rambling so I'll sign off here and leave you with: “Of course you can still rock the Keaton look! Don't let anyone tell you otherwise!”

    M @ http://www.myclosetcatalogue.com

  • Reply Sue @ A Colourful Canvas February 2, 2014 at 9:46 am

    Oh, that would be brilliant! I have a pair of white suspenders…maybe a light coloured shirt with them? I'll keep my eyes open for a cognac pair of suspenders though.

  • Reply Sue @ A Colourful Canvas February 2, 2014 at 9:46 am

    GAK! I'll be watching for your post Glenda!

  • Reply Sue @ A Colourful Canvas February 2, 2014 at 9:47 am

    Thanks Sabine! I kind of miss the vest in this outfit that I did. Another time…

  • Reply Sue @ A Colourful Canvas February 2, 2014 at 9:48 am

    Aw, thanks Vix! Your creations always inspire me!

  • Reply Sue @ A Colourful Canvas February 2, 2014 at 9:49 am

    Hahaha…ridiculous, isn't it? I think I was trying too hard to follow Diane's lead with the wide ties…maybe a cute scarf would be more me?

  • Reply Sue @ A Colourful Canvas February 2, 2014 at 9:51 am

    Maricel, I've been enjoying your plaid posts immensely. Plaid withdrawal now?

  • Reply Suzanne Carillo Style Files February 2, 2014 at 10:42 am

    I was always inspired by Annie Hall as well. Diane Keaton is just so fantastic.

    Fashion icon…probably Marilyn Monroe. LOL What does that say about me?

    I love how you've combined the small check with the large plaid. The colours are all great but I think even though you narrowed the pants because of the style and fit they still add bulk to the bottom half. I'd like to see them with more of a slimmer cut.

    Your sewing talent blows my mind. Seriously.

    bisous
    Suzanne

  • Reply Sue @ A Colourful Canvas February 2, 2014 at 10:53 am

    Thank you Suzanne, for helping me with quest in discovering my most flattering silhouette!!! I sometimes think I am a tall person in a short body, LOL. I agree completely about a slimmer fitting pant…I need to break down and actually sew a muslin. That is like making a sample pattern that you tweak until you get the perfect garment, then you mark it, take it apart, and trace it onto pattern paper. Then you have the perfect pattern.

  • Reply Hippy At Heart February 2, 2014 at 11:43 am

    wow, very diane keaton, indeed! I think you and diane really do have a similar attitude, too!

  • Reply Kezzie February 2, 2014 at 12:16 pm

    No no no, they are brilliant trousers, I love the way you made them!!!! So fun and unique- they remind me of this M&S dress I have and adore! Loving the fun red hat too and looking forward to your handmade one!!!!x

  • Reply Melanie February 2, 2014 at 1:17 pm

    You are a spark of colour and life in these photos. Wonderful! And I like the lie of the tie (laugh). Diane Keaton, great style icon. I hope you don't completely abandon the menswear look – this is too great on you for that. You made those trousers? Gaaa! Fantastic. I have too many style icons to count….

  • Reply Sheila February 2, 2014 at 2:20 pm

    I adore this look! Long live the plaid pants! Viva your menswear look! Well done!

  • Reply popcosmo February 2, 2014 at 2:27 pm

    Your amazing talent always comes shining through!! Along with your smiling spirit! I also love Diane Keaton's style! It's simple and refreshing… and dare I say: it looks comfortable! I especially loved it in the movie where her “daughter” was dating Jack Nicholson and then she began seeing him. Forget the name, but her cream colored wardrobe made me swoon with its simplicity. It was simple and fem + masculine. Perfection!! My style icons… oh so many and just depends on my mood.
    xo ~kim (and chloe)

  • Reply Flo February 2, 2014 at 4:24 pm

    OMG, you nailed it Sue, I love this! I love Diane Keaton's style and Annie Hall is such a classic. I was noticing the other day Sara Gilbert on The Talk wearing a tie with a white shirt, perhaps this is a trend that is making a comeback?

  • Reply Val S February 2, 2014 at 4:55 pm

    You're looking pretty darn dapper there, Sue! I love the plaid trousers and that cute little jacket. I don't think you should give up on the Annie Hall look, maybe just take a few bits and mix it with your own inimitable style.

    I just rewatched Something's Gotta Give, and her style there is so different from Annie Hall, but so classy. You know, though, I only watched it for Keanu!

  • Reply The Style Crone February 2, 2014 at 5:42 pm

    Trousers with matching tie! Be still my heart. Men's wear has always been a favorite with me. Happy to hear that you're not giving up on the hat and thank you for sharing your chapeau wearing talent with Hat Attack.

  • Reply Sue @ A Colourful Canvas February 2, 2014 at 6:54 pm

    hahaha…we so bad Val!

  • Reply Sue @ A Colourful Canvas February 2, 2014 at 6:54 pm

    Thanks for being so inspiring!

  • Reply Sue @ A Colourful Canvas February 2, 2014 at 6:56 pm

    Well, after Diane's classy Globe outfit, the trend really could be making a comeback.

  • Reply Sue @ A Colourful Canvas February 2, 2014 at 6:57 pm

    Something's Gotta Give…it's a favourite for many of us. Me, I totally loved that kitchen…her whole house actually.

  • Reply Sue @ A Colourful Canvas February 2, 2014 at 6:57 pm

    Thanks Sheila! I can't get enough of the plaid pants it seems. Especially if we count gingham as plaid.

  • Reply Sue @ A Colourful Canvas February 2, 2014 at 6:58 pm

    Okay…maybe just a little tweaking. I'll see what I come up with and hopefully do another future post.

  • Reply Sue @ A Colourful Canvas February 2, 2014 at 6:59 pm

    Aw, thanks Kezzie!

  • Reply Sue @ A Colourful Canvas February 2, 2014 at 7:00 pm

    You know, I never thought about that…but I'd like to think that we do indeed have a similar attitude…she seems fun!

  • Reply Suzanne Carillo Style Files February 2, 2014 at 7:16 pm

    You and me both on the tall person in a short body! I too am attracted to those little shorter slim pants that looked great on Audrey Hepburn. I *think* they will make me look like her but man oh man… not at ALL. I look like I have stubs for legs. Basically you need to be a stick to wear them.

    If you end up getting the perfect pattern made I might need some custom made pants by you!

    bisous
    Suzanne

  • Reply Imogen February 2, 2014 at 8:41 pm

    Wow you are truly the best and your style is such an inspiration. The colourful tartan is amazing and it is so sweet how the tie matches. I love the contrast between the two different patterns. Your writing is always so lovely that accompanies your outfits posts.

  • Reply M. Edwards February 2, 2014 at 10:33 pm

    Yes, ma'am. Plaid withdrawal to the nth degree. And I swear I know how to spell/type. I was just replying to blogs half awake this morning. “Non-sweing”, indeed. 🙁

    M @ http://www.myclosetcatalogue.com

  • Reply Mrs C February 3, 2014 at 5:26 am

    One thing about Diane, she stays true to her style all these years! I love your own take on Diane :).. with a bit more attitude and fun, fun,fun!

    Mrs Jack Of All Trades
    Dubai, UAE

  • Reply Kelsey Bang February 3, 2014 at 1:14 pm

    this outfit is so fun! love the plaid and fun combo! you are so dang cute!
    kelseybang.com

  • Reply Rosy February 3, 2014 at 1:51 pm

    OMG! You look like an explosion of fun, irreverence and daring! I just love you and your imagination! You are soooo creative, my dear Sue.

  • Reply Merche Martinez February 3, 2014 at 4:03 pm

    You rock Diane Keaton style but I think you make it look more interesting. I mean, she doesn´t wear a lot of colours while you are a master of mixing colours and prints… I´m in awe!!

  • Reply Jean at www.drossintogold.com February 3, 2014 at 7:39 pm

    Oh how I felt your pain at the serger slip!! I've done that, and just as traumatic is running over the pin that destroys your cutting blade just as you're trying to finish a project. I love the way you made lemonade out of lemons, so to speak, and perhaps the trousers are even better this way, you know?!!! I do know that you look fabulous here. You are always inspiring. XXXOOO

  • Reply Jan Graham-McMillen February 3, 2014 at 7:44 pm

    Darling Sue! I think you look fabulous in menswear … it's just Annie Hall I didn't care much for. Diane Keaton is lovely, just found the character annoying. Probably 'cause I don't like Woody Allen much.
    I see that this might not be your favorite look ever, but it's pretty adorable. I'm guessing you'll keep restyling this until it is perfection. I think your trousers will be even more adorable in spring!

  • Reply Heather Feather February 3, 2014 at 7:51 pm

    How amazing! It looks like you put so much work and thought into it! The color and pattern mixing is so fun! Great job!

  • Reply Trina February 3, 2014 at 10:39 pm

    You didn't even need to tell us your icon, it was obvious as soon as I pulled your post up. I'm quite speechless as to what you did with those trousers even after the mishap. Talk about fun and exuberant pattern missing. I've always been a fan of a bit of men's wear, especially adding a little tie once in a while. Love sneaking those skinny ties from my son. Fabulous look, Sue.

  • Reply EveryDay Bloom February 4, 2014 at 8:14 am

    I would have had a hard time parting with the plaid too. Great recovery! And the tie…well, you're not a guy. So a tie can be a sham and still be glam. There's no one-Windsor two-Windsor standard to meet. (=
    I think you did a lovely job paying tribute to Diane Keaton style. Love your fun, seemingly carefree photos. My fashion icon…I'm with you, I don't know that there's just one for me. I did love Julia Ormond's wardrobe in “Sabrina”, more than a decade ago.

  • Reply Sue @ A Colourful Canvas February 4, 2014 at 4:02 pm

    Ouch! Haven't had that mishap…but hey, never say never. And I think you're right about the trousers actually looking better than originally planned.

  • Reply Sue @ A Colourful Canvas February 4, 2014 at 4:03 pm

    Yes, I think if I breathe some spring into these trousers, I will be happier!

  • Reply Sue @ A Colourful Canvas February 4, 2014 at 4:04 pm

    There's no doubt, you do the menswear look brilliantly Trina! I much prefer the skinny tie too, but this time I went with Diane's preference.

  • Reply Aya in Couturgatory February 5, 2014 at 10:30 pm

    Wow, I can't believe you made these trousers! I love the fabric- such a great fit for your smile and blog persona. I understand what you describe after cutting them mistakenly, though! Even when you know no one knows/can tell, it just gnaws at you and you can't stop thinking of/picking at something you did when sewing when you wear the garment.

    For what it is worth, I think they look amazing, and comfortably wide-legged. They suit your figure wonderfully. They also look like the perfect length, or at least the length at which I wear my trousers with boots. (I may be wearing them short?)

  • Reply dan February 6, 2014 at 4:33 am

    Making a pair of trousers is such a hard job! Diane Keaton is an actress with a great personality and your outfit can catch well her style …the oxford shoes are just perfect!

  • Reply Ariane Lasalle February 6, 2014 at 5:29 am

    Hello Sue!

    One of my fav blogger of all times! Always a joy to see what you are up to!
    You nailed it girl, Diane Keaton style, perfect!
    Now that i think of it maybe i was influenced by her, i remember wearing a similar style in the end of the 80s, hum…maybe she my first fashion icon as well!
    Oh! and if the tie is a lie, it's a pretty good lie- I wish i could lie like you lie!

    Have a good one

    Hugs

    Arianexo

  • Reply Seeker February 6, 2014 at 11:20 am

    What can I say…… just perfection!!!!
    Love your outfit the way you style and create everything and the joy you share with us.
    Thank you so much for linking with Très Chic Style Bits
    xoxo

  • Reply Seeker February 6, 2014 at 4:05 pm

    I just nominated you for the Shine On Award. See http://searchingtheinnerme.blogspot.com/2014/02/shine-on-award.html for rules
    xoxo

  • Reply Sue @ A Colourful Canvas February 7, 2014 at 10:55 am

    Aw, thanks Ariane! You too, one of my very favourite bloggers! Hope you are doing well.

  • Reply Sue @ A Colourful Canvas February 7, 2014 at 10:55 am

    Thank You for hosting your Tres Chic Style Bits!

  • Reply Justine of SewCountryChick February 7, 2014 at 2:03 pm

    Such a fun and creative outfit!

  • Reply Laura February 7, 2014 at 4:32 pm

    Thanks for stopping by to say “HI”- and I love the patterns!!!You did an amazing job! I have tossed week 2 and 3 project sewn -projects in a pile. I love sewing/ I hate sewing- I wont give up trying to sew! Sorry that I was comforted so much by your sewing strife. I appreciate you sharing- that even the pro's have problems. (Why does that comfort me? I would hope when I am “pro” I won't have problems…)
    Anyway.. nice to meet you! Great job on the outfit!

  • Reply Sue @ A Colourful Canvas February 7, 2014 at 11:08 pm

    Thanks Laura! Happy to hear that you aren't giving up! Yes, we all have our moments in the sewing room when things don't go well, but sewing really does get easier with time. Just keep choosing projects that you truly love, and don't be afraid to ask for help.

  • Reply Sue @ A Colourful Canvas February 7, 2014 at 11:08 pm

    Thanks Justine! Appreciate that you popped round and said Hi.

  • Reply wattwewear.com February 8, 2014 at 1:36 am

    we love your outfit, so fabulous and unique!! those pants are amazing!
    xoxo Vera & Rony
    http://wattwewear.com/

  • Reply No fear of fashion February 9, 2014 at 4:39 am

    OK, here is my two cents. I think you did an amazing job with the trousers. I sew (a bit), so I can fully understand how difficult it is to get the plaids to match up. I only did that with two pillow covers, discovering along the way they both had to be exactly the same patternwise and there were checks and lines and a rim… Took me a whole afternoon.
    The trousers are fun, colourful and masculin and look lovely on you. I don't really notice that the hem is too high up, but you see it in reality, therefore you know best. For my taste there are a bit too many checksn the picture, but that is me. I am quite conservative and cannot mix and match patterns. So don't take any notice of that remark.
    If you think the colours are too dark (you want lighter and brighter), how about a white shirt?
    Greetje

  • Reply Sue @ A Colourful Canvas February 9, 2014 at 10:38 pm

    Yes, on the white shirt Greetje! I really, really need to buy, or maybe sew, a new white shirt. I'm down to one right now, and it's starting to look tired. Thanks for lending your valued opinion!

  • Leave a Reply

    This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.