SIMPLICITY 8575 | SELF DRAFTED SKIRT
Hi, hi, hi everyone! Word on the street is that pastels are in this season, and with several soft hued pieces of fabric in my stash, well…you know. Now, it’s no secret; I veer recklessly towards bright tints, if they had a bumper sticker I brake for brights, you’d think of me! But, I do enjoy wearing pastels in moderation too. Okay, I have been kinda, sorta, trying to assess what holes might be lurking in my spring/summer wardrobe, but organization and planning aren’t strong suits for me. Yeah, um, it’s fair to say it’s not going so well, but in light of just finishing two dresses and two jackets, I thought it would be safe to shift my focus over to sewing some tops and pants or skirts…separates. Now isn’t that a grown-up word?…separates. As a kiddo, I wore a lot of tops and bottoms, but I’m betting they weren’t called separates. Nuh uh! So today’s project features recently thrifted Simplicity Pattern 8575, a lovely little semi-fitted top…the perfect spring staple.
This next paragraph is mostly sewing technique, so skippity-loo past it if that’s not your thing…
This top pattern is definitely a keeper. It sewed up beautifully. Although I shortened it at the petite line by 1″, I’m not sure I will do that in future. I do like the silhouette, but I can’t really wear the top with pants that sit below my waistline. Well, technically I can, but you see my skin, which I don’t really like. I made sure to give my skirt a high waistband. One thing a little odd about this pattern is that it has a very generous amount of wearing ease, yet it has a zipped back closure. Doesn’t it make sense to have a more body conscious design line? I know!!! I took in a couple of seams; not a lot, but enough to give the top a little more shape. And, of course, I put in an invisible zipper…I’m a bit addicted to them at the moment…and I thinks I needs to be careful with all these back zipped clothes. In future, I might find I’m unable to dress myself, and that would be bad, very bad. There are all kinds of options on this pattern including different necklines and a sleeveless version. And whoops, just remembered that I found the sleeve a little short for my liking, so I added a sleeve facing, for those that care. As far as remakes go, I can totally imagine it in a crisp white poplin, or perhaps a print or a stripe…polka dots anyone? The skirt is my no fail rectangle of fabric. I keep coming back to it because it works for me. This go around, I wanted to match the side front and side back pleats with the open seams of the top. I cannot believe how long that took me. Um, really? Yep, really! In the end, they matched up perfectly. The photo of the back isn’t showing the magic, but really, it really does line up. And! Can I just say that I am well aware that as soon as learned to sew an invisible zipper, exposed zippers became all the rage! Huh?! I think my next skirt will have a super sassy exposed zipper! {And yes, when I was reviewing my photos, I remembered that I had intended to wear a beige bra…sigh}
Okay, a question about style for you stylish ladies please! Sewing is awesome, but I get a little lot overwhelmed with the choices..there are no limits. There is also the not so small wrinkle that you never know for certain how the finished garment will look on, until you’re finished. Currently, I have two garments on my wish list, an awning striped dress and a lace top. What do you think? And…okay two questions…what’s on your spring/summer must have list? Tell me in your comment, tell me in an email, or write about it on your blog! The lovely Glenda of So What To Twenty has just posted a list of her top ten spring wardrobe essentials, and I love it! I know your must have’s will inspire me too; they could even become my next project!
Enough, enough of my ramble!
Coat :: D Studio, thrifted and last seen here
Top :: Simplicity Pattern 8575
Skirt :: Me-Made
Pumps :: Nine West
Linking Up With:
Patti from Not Dead Yet Style for Visible Monday
87 Comments
Fabulous look Sue. That green outfit suits you so well. I love that long coat over your skirt!
The pastels are lovely on you. A beautiful color combination, including the pastel hued pool. And ohhhhhh, that hair!
I love the outfit especially the top. It's often difficult to find a top to be worn outside a skirt that is not long. I made a top similar to this one a while ago and lined it. But I made the lining longer so that I could tuck that into my skirt, like a blouse, to avoid the skin issue. It worked out well.
I adore this colour mix, and the long jacket over it is very much “in” with the cool kids. Still goggling that you made all this – I'm in awe.
On my wish list…not too much! I never know what I'll find at the thrift stores, so I just roll with it.
Thank you so much Sylvia! I'm really trying to pay attention to silhouette…your course really helped me with that among other subjects!
Thank you Judith! And the hair, LOL…we've had lots of rain, and my curls do like the humidity.
Oh my goodness Trixie! What a BRILLIANT idea!!! Thanks for mentioning it!
Thanks Sheila…I did thrift the coat, so feel free to be less in awe of me, LOL. And I totally agree on the subject of thrifting. Before I got back into sewing clothing, I was 99% a thrifter, and I didn't follow *the trends*. Sure, there was the occasional item that I was searching for, but for the most part, like you I rolled with it! A good reminder, thanks!
What a great outfit Sue. I have just discovered your blog through Aventuras de costuras! I really like your blog design!
Thank you so much for popping by and saying hello! Merche from Aventuras de costuras is a sweetheart!
You absolutely rock those pastel shades, you look wonderful. I made a top very similar to that from a 1967 Simplicity pattern a few years ago, I was a bit hesitant but it turned out good, so good in fact that I stuck it on a rail at a vintage fair and it was the first thing to sell, the lady who bought it often wears it! xxx
Oh, Miss Sue! I adore you! This outfit is uh-mazing! And you in it, of course. When I grow up, I want to be just like you. 😀
This is how I imagine pastels/spring colors to be. You've proven that they can be vibrant and saturated – no shrinking violets need apply.
You look lovely. I like how you mixed the green and pink. Pastes are so lovely.
Wow…that's is a really confidence booster! Way to go Vix!!!
I think my secret is *NOT* growing up, hahaha!
Lovely Lady Lilith! Thank you so much!
I love the look, love the softness of the color scheme and the beautiful design of the skirt and blouse. The coat is cute. Fantastic post.
You have such a talent in sewing, Sue! Your job looks really fantastic… besides green and pink, is a delicate and chic combination! Soft green is so nice…and the coat is a beauty! Every inch of your outfit is very spring…
I also like the photos which make your post great!
p.s.
Many thanks from Mr. Bangio ( who is snoring at the moment!!)
Very nice, a perfect Easter outfit! That coat is so pretty too. As far as must haves–I am in need of a navy skirt, and I'm thinking of trying your no fail rectangle idea. I picked up a couple tops while thrifting with a friend, ordered a few things from Lands End–if I could just find a pair of jeans that really fits well, I will be happy.
Sue, you make pastels bright!! I'm pretty sure you could make beige look colorful. I'm convinced it's you making these clothes look so great 🙂 I'm loving the top. If I wasn't such a jeans and shirt wearing bum, I'd rush out to buy the pattern!!!
Sue, this is such a gorgeous outfit on you, and although the little top is a sweet pale pastel shade, the skirt looks a brighter shade of lime to me, so with the coat, the overall effect is your trademark bright'n'sassy! The fit and execution look perfect to my admittedly untrained eye, you are so good at this!
No good asking me about wish lists or must have items, I am a secondhand shopper with no interest in trends, so I will either use what I have or see what the charity shops have to offer!
PS. I still say tops and bottoms, I doubt I'll ever be grown up enough for separates! xxx
The word is ADORABLE, head to toes! Love your red curls and your smile, and this outfit and the whole photo shoot are fantastic!
You are becoming quite the model – I love your pastel hued pool! Everything about this post is just so happy and bright and gorgeous – your new blog look, your longish coat, your colors, your poses, your smile! I love it all except the stuff about sewing. I wish I could, but I will never be good friends with a sewing machine. If I was, I would make some very cool vests with tapestry fabric, and a coat like yours in blue.
Have always liked pink and green. The top is timeless, classic. Looking sweet, Sue.
You look amazing in pastels! I love the top especially, but the entire outfit is so adorably pulled together. I love the expression, “separates”. But my separates these days are Eddie Bauer long sleeve t-shirts and dark blue jeans, with a crew neck pullover sweater. People probably think it's my uniform. Anyway, you look very pretty!
Island girl style! It's all good!
Thanks Shirl!
Thanks Val! Hey, I totally hear you. I think I'm that way with knitting…I can do it, but my tension gets soooo tight I can't get the needle in, and then it gets soooo loose…well you get me drift.
Aw, thanks Natalia! Loved seeing you Spy Girled!
hahaha, me too Curtise!
You know, you, Vix, and Sheila say the same thing, and I am totally on board. When I was only thrift shopping, that's how things would roll, quite happily. I may primarily stick with buying thrifted fabric and patterns. It's fun that way, and keeps me on my creative toes!
Amy….I know's you's making a dress girl…and I'm sure it's going to be a gorgeous garment!
If you do sew the skirt, and have questions, be sure to pop me an email! Ah, the quest for the perfect pair of jeans. Gap jeans seem to be good for me, but I rarely see them in thrift stores anymore.
Nothing beats a softly snoring doggy at one's feet! Thanks for your sweet comments Dan!
Thank you so much Josep! It's always nice to have you pop by and comment!
Sue your are the master with the sewing machine! Love it, the color and design. Very fun pictures too. Designer all the way—I say this is oh, a $500 (retail price) outfit. You make us 40+ proud!
blue hue wonderland
While I was watching my students take an exam today, I was daydreaming about making a lace top–so it's funny that you mention it's on your list, too! But, I have too many other fabrics in the queue to even consider tackling a lace project! I'm dying to see what you come up with, though. My daydream was to layer one bright colored lace over a different color lining, and that would be right up your alley, too!
Looking at you in this lovely, lovely combination is just balm for the spirit, Sweet Sue! Seriously … you are a visual treat. You did such a grand job … you are such a fine tailor. So beautiful. Look at your perfect blushy-nude pumps? Are they working for you as far as walking in them goes?
I've been on your wavelength today … I found some patent leather mint mid-heels, pointy toe and just right. You inspire!
Sue you look superb…yet again. I adore this entire ensemble. The textured coat is super cute and I bet it can be teamed with so many other pieces in your wardrobe. The colouring makes your skin glow. Bravo Sue…Bravo! And thank you for the mention 🙂
Wow what a great outfit, love the colours. You did a great job here 🙂
Stunningly beautiful and refreshing summer look!
FF
I´m in love with your coat.
That said, the top is really pretty and the whole look is perfect! Shoes included. Is there anything in your closet that I don´t like? I doubt it!
What a perfect spring color combo! Love your style.
Sue this outfit is so very pretty and so very you! I love every detail, the small sweet bows, the spring celebrating colors, the 60s look. And you arranged the scene for photoshooting perfectly!
Some of my dresses closed at the back make me ponder whether I can still wear them in ten years:-)
Sabine xxx
Hi Sue, thanks for leaving your link on Bella & Bear. I've been known to get a bit crafty and sew an outfit I either can't find and want or want and can't quite afford so I am going to be following closely and hoovering up all your tips! I love the contrast of bright and pastel colours in this post. The one thing I really want this summer is a Tibi midi-skirt. They are gorgeous (and honestly they look really easy to make), bold stripes or a smudgy pastel floral material would be perfect x
http://bellalovesbear.blogspot.co.uk
The whole outfit is lovely, love the pink and green combo. It so nice to see all the spring outfits, just as we head into autumn. That's so funny about you and invisible zips. I also invested in an invisible zip foot, became a complete convert just to find exposed zips eveywhere. Just a bit behind the trend, aaah!
Oh thanks Sue for the happy dance! Yes, I have been doing more than one happy dance. I am so thrilled and gloriously happy beyond belief. It is awful to have cancer but it is great when you get FABULOUS news within that cancer!!! ♥
Lovely shades in this combo Sue. Love, love, love the coat.
Thank you so much Ann!
Oh Nicole, two different colours, lace and lining, sounds so much fun! Ha! You've got me wondering what all my teachers daydreamed about during those quiet exam times! Now that I think about it, they really did look like they were dreaming.
Thanks Jan! I haven't taken these shoes outdoors, but I'm certain that they are keepers. Thanks for your guidance!!! I had been unsure about this size, but it really does seem to be right!
Thank you, thank you Glenda! Your blog really is a powerhouse of inspiration for me.
Thanks Claire. Appreciate that you stopped by!
Thank you so much Nicolene!
When I saw this coat at the thrift store, I grabbed it quickly!!! I love it too!
Aw, thanks Margo!
Thank you so much Sabine! We'll need ladies maids, LOL.
Emma! Thanks for stopping by! I'm off to check out the Tibi midi-skirt! I love the name!!
Oh, oh, oh! Very cute!!!!
You and me both! Funny, I use my regular zipper foot for invisible zippers. I should check out the special foot though. Anything to make our jobs easier.
Yes Renae…good news is healing!
Thank you Elsie! This coat is the perfect spring coat. It's warm enough for cool days, but the colour just says spring.
My dear Sue, that shade of green is sooooooooooooo perfect, ahhhhhhhhhhhhh even better with pink
As much as I loved, loved, loved Google Friend Connect, I found out in the end that it was like having a Visa card of a none existing bank. Nice, shining and useless, so I shut it down and move on.
Have a fantastic weekend
This coat is AMAZING 🙂
Marianna,
THE ADVENTURES OF A SHOPAHOLIC
THE ADVENTURES OF A SHOPAHOLIC ON FACEBOOK
so fabulous color combo and fabulous coat, so cool and pretty!, and even though I'm not a huge fan of pastel colors, I'm loving your outfit so much!!
there're some items in my must have list: some kind of red shoes, a pretty summer dress, a printed waistcoat…
besos
Indeed what a good idea Trixie. I have another idea for wearing this shorter top with trousers: wear a tanktop underneath the top which is in an exciting colour, different from the top or the trousers. So an interesting line is showing every now and then. Mind you, it might be visible through the material of the top. OK bad idea LOL
Sue, this outfit is outstanding. You look so good in it. And I think choosing an invisible zipper is a clever idea. I have seen very big visible zippers in the back for a couple of seasons now, so they might go out of style soon. (If you can be bothered that is haha.)
The coat is again so beautiful. No everything you made is beautiful. What a clever girl you are.
Greetje
Pretty, pretty, pretty! The colors I couldn't do, you are doing them fabulously! I can't help but trying to imagine the idea Trixie has about the lining.. I think it is brilliant!
Mrs Jack Of All Trades
http://www.mjoat.com/
Such a pretty look – the colors, the shapes, your fab hair, the whole outfit is lovely! I have added full skirts to my Spring shopping list. Thanks for sharing with Visible Monday!
I don't tend to wear pastels much–probably simply because I don't have any! I haven't sewn in a while now because my sewing room is unheated (no fun in the winter!). I look forward to starting up a new project soon!
You are wearing my all time favorite color combo, and it's usually impossible to every find the perfect (separates) in those shades that make the perfect ensemble. Apparently all I need to do is learn to sew, lololo. I think I would be living in that jacket, it looks wonderful all paired together but it would be great with white skinnies, boyfriend jeans, black, etc . . . You really hit a home run this time.
Hi Sue! Your blog looks fantastic! Such a breath of fresh air and vibrates of Spring!
Great analogy Sacramento! Thanks for stopping by!
Thanks Marianna! Appreciate the comment!
You and me both; we gravitate to the brights! Red shoes!! I have flats, but I'd love some heels!
Hey Greetje! I agree; at least invisible zippers are classic. The same can't be said for the large, visible zippers!
Well, you certainly were looking lovely in your brights recently!
Thanks Patti! The Tibi skirt is quite a nice looking full skirt. I am finding full skirts a-calling me too!
Oh brrrrr…..you've had such a cold winter, I could not imagine sewing in an unheated space! Soon! Soon, the weather will be nice for you again!
Thanks Trina! Ooooh, white skinnies or boyfriend jeans! I suspect my other coats will be feeling green with envy…
Thanks Joni! It's so great to see you! Yep…I've made a few changes recently to my blog! Still, always, a work in progress…and not much of my artwork making it to print yet.
Such pretty pastels, they look lovely on you. Your coat is a stunner, love the fabric. You are such a clever girl. Should have paid more attention in sewing class.
Gorgeous pastels Sue!! I love how green looks on you. You have the perfect skin tone for any type of green and I hate you for that lol. Every time you amaze me with your work and skills. By the way, your pictures are perfect and the coloring just right.
xo
Carelia
MySmallWardrobe.com
Oooooh, I love everything about this one!
I love this outfit! Your sewing is lovely. Color style…the works. I'm working on two summer shifts right now. I only have a few hours a week to work on them, so it's slow going! I'm not as good a seamstress as I'd like to be, but I'm as good as time allows.
Your posts are always so happy, Sue, and your creativity, sense of colour and winning smile just make it! I am not handy in any way so appreciate your talents. And every time I see that coat, I think, ” Wow, amazing.” As to your questions: a lace top sounds really lovely, and I can see the striped dress working for you. I don't really follow,trends either, like the other thrifters (though apparently my vintage grey sweatshirt is very on-trend right now), but I will list my current style obsessions: 70s crochet fringed scarves, and patchwork. Xo
You my dear … are absolutely beautiful!!
xoxo
Tamera
Hi Sue, I'm so impressed by your talent in making beautiful clothing! The pastel colors in this outfit are so pretty together and it welcomes spring with true style. I especially love the feminine pleats of the skirt!