Over on Artisan's Square there is a thread on the 6PAC - six piece autumn collection. I love seeing all the story boards and postings of gorgeous fabrics to go with their chosen patterns. Usually people go with something like two pairs of solid pants or skirts, two to three tops (usually out of same fabric as pants or skirt), and a topper like a jacket or cardigan that magically goes with everything. And I think, that's what I will do.
And then I don't.
The truth is that I am addicted to patterns, to new patterns. Yes, I have a few TNTs, but mostly I just love the puzzle that a new pattern presents. I also enjoy stash-shopping for the fabric - part of the puzzle. My idea of fun.
But. I have a closet full of fun and nothing to wear. You knew it, right?
That's a bit of an exaggeration. I've become more consistent in color choice when I shop for fabric (*) so occasionally I finish a great garment, walk it into my closet, and surprise! It matches something there.Back to the 6PAC. I have decided that mine will be evolutionary:
Start with one basic garment, make it, and then use it to choose the next garment. Garment number 2 must coordinate with garment number 1, and garment 3 must coordinate with garment 2, and so on. Of course garment number 1 may or may not coordinate with garment number 3, but I'm going with it.
Garment 1 and garment 2 are finished! Both are made from TNT patterns. And since they are made from the same fabric, they coordinate. Yes, I can do this!
From a much modified version of TSW mimosa pants, I made a pair in brown stretch poplin. And then I made a shell from a fitted sheath (thanks, Pam Howard!) by simply making it short. I used the remnants from the pants and so, of course, I didn't have enough. Hence the seam just below the bust on the center front and center back pieces.
Not too exciting but I am pretty sure it coordinates with something in my closet.
(*) I almost never buy a piece of fabric with an idea of what I will make - do you?
That is a nice, functional outfit and the contrast edging on the top makes it super snazzy!
ReplyDeleteI love your contrast binding - and I love your "let it flow and grow" concept! I, too, struggle with discipline and plans, and yet when I make a plan and follow through I reap benefits that just aren't there when I trot along the path with my usual will-nilly "oh look! a chicken!" MO....
ReplyDeleteI agree with Jilly, the flow and grow concept is definitely the way to go. As for you last question the nearest I get to knowing what I will make, is for example, pants, shirt, pjs etc
ReplyDeleteI'm still melting over that MarcyTilton dress! The binding on your top is terrific--a nice detail.
ReplyDeleteYes, I'm with you on the flow and grow concept. I have made a concerted effort to be more organized and mindful of my closet lately...it has paid off but now I want to just sew something for the pure joy of seeing what happens.
ReplyDeleteYour style is very much your own and so I think whatever you make will be happy in your wardrobe.
Great little outfit and it can stretch over a number of seasons.
ReplyDeleteFlow and grow is a wonderful concept for me, just so it applies only to my wardrobe and not the rest of me which is already overflowing. Your new outfit looks terrific, "just you" basics.
ReplyDeleteMartha, I'm curious as to the pattern that you used for your tried-'n-true shell. I love the seam detail a the front bust. I would really like to do the 6PAC...I love to try out new patterns and I'm easily seduced by lovely fabrics. It's time to be more disciplined about my wardrobe since I have taken on the 9-5 world. I was self-employed for so many years where I needed to go from jeans to a board meeting (try that!)
ReplyDeleteI'm enjoying watching your progress. Thanks so much for sharing!
Hi, Nancy,
DeleteThe top is based on a sheath pattern, originally from a Cynthia Guffy dress pattern. Simple princess seamed dress.
It was much modified in a sheath fitting class I took with Pam Howard.
It does not have a seam under the bust, but every time I make this as a dress or a shell, I am short of fabric. That's what happened with this top. I've decided I like it best that way now.
Thanks for your comment!
Thanks, Martha! Very clever! ...and I really like the look.
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