My summer travel wardrobe is starting to take shape. I’m determined to pack efficiently, but this will be tricky. The trip includes a Danube River cruise and some evenings will be dress-up events. Of course, jeans are my go-to wardrobe staple, but they’re probably not ‘cruise-appropriate’ (LOL), so I’m sewing some separates that will dress-up with the right shoes and jewelry.
These two pieces; a lacy top and Denim pencil skirt will mix and match with other pieces in my wardrobe. I think both can be dressed up or down, as the mood strikes. Lace and denim are both having a fashion moment, so I love the fact that these pieces are comfy, versatile and a perhaps a bit trendy too.
The top is another version of McCall’s 7285, a semi-fitted pullover top that’s so easy and fast.This pattern is so well-written and designed, it’s becoming a tried and true for me.
I love the bell-sleeves and the hi-lo hem. You can make this top in an afternoon, which makes it perfect for summer sewing. This time, I used a light weight rayon from Fabric Depot for the bodice and added some black lace to the sleeves. I finished the seams with my serger. The top is so comfortable to wear, I feel like I’m in my pajamas!! I’m hoping the lace gives it a bit of a ‘dressed-up’ vibe. What do you think?
The skirt has a simple pencil style. It’s Butterick 5760, (OOP) a 2012 lifestyle wardrobe piece that has a waist band, a back zipper and slit.
The pattern is so simple and basic, you could embellish it easily with pockets. I wanted to do that but didn’t have quite enough fabric (I am my own worst enemy, it seems!) and when I went back to the fabric store for more, there was none to be had. Yes, I am short, but I must learn that a skirt takes at least a YARD AND A HALF, not a yard. The fabric is a denim cotton blend with some lycra (from Fabric Depot) which makes it comfortable enough for travel.
This photo is kind of dark, but I just had to show you how lush and green things are right now in Portland Oregon. Yes, we have a lot of rain, but this is the end result…almost worth it?!?
Both the skirt and top are so easy! As the weather improves, I am all about fast and easy sewing. What do you think? Is my top dressy enough for a cruise? Not sure about the skirt…..?
Me-Made-May is in full swing and I love seeing everyone’s posts on Instagram. Although I haven’t been very good about posting photos, I’ve been trying to wear me-made every day, but have found it difficult because I don’t have my jeans finished. I’m hemming them this weekend, and hope to have them to share with you soon. The class was so inspiring, I suspect I’ll become a jeans making machine this summer.
Happy Spring sewing and thanks for stopping by!
Should be a perfect outfit for your cruise, and as separates to compliment other outfits, dressed up or down. I love a tried and tested pattern, especially when you know you suit the style, this looks fab on you.
Thanks so much! Yes when a pattern gets to the tried and true stage it gives you freedom as fit issues are gone!
I think your top is nice. I haven’t been on a cruise (except for an Atlantic crossing in, um, 1976), so I don’t have a clue what people wear. I would caution you though about the weight of your clothing. Denim is heavy — and bulky, which means it will take up room in your luggage as well as making your luggage heavy. This may not matter if you have wheeled luggage, and if you don’t have to cart it around much. When I travelled around Europe last winter I took only light-weight knits. I’m really glad I did.
Good point about denim being heavy. Hadn’t really thought about that! Knits are a great suggestion. I’ll have to ponder my next travel make with that in mind.
Great job, as always 🙂 I think your top would look so cool with a pair of crisp white denim jeans! A cruise — how exciting! The best cruise I’ve ever been on was to the Caribbean. Have a great time!
Thanks! White jeans sounds perfect! I could use my new (only) favorite jeans pattern and whip some up…lol.