Summer is winding down, but there are still plenty of opportunities to attend street fairs, farmer’s markets and wine festivals. Since Street Fairs are great places to get your inner bo-ho on, I’ve taken to wearing kimonos over my standard jeans and tees on my excursions.
A kimono is such a great wardrobe soldier. When you toss one on, you immediately add style to any outfit! But the best part about kimonos is that they are so fun to sew. You can use just about any fabric with a good drape to make a show stopping topper. And, because kimonos have front bands and sleeve bands, you can play around with contrasting fabrics to make the look your own.
For my kimono, I used a tried and true pattern, Simplicity 1318, view C with a great high low hem. Lightweight fabrics work best for this look, so I used a sheer cotton lawn I purchased last year in that fabulous fabric store I found in Budapest (see this post). It has a fun geometic print that I took some care in placing on the pattern.
I love this kimono pattern so much, this is my third make (I’ve made it twice before, here and here). The only modification I made this time was to lengthen it by three inches so it would be long and flowy.
Because I am committed to reducing the number of wardrobe orphans in my closet, I also made Simplicty 8337, a cold shoulder knit top to go with it.
This pattern is fabulous! It has several different views, all with a look of their own. I love the cut of the bodice. It’s slightly loose but not too blousy. The v-neck is a winner too.
Some notes on this pattern:
- I used a lovely rayon knit with two way stretch that I found at Fabric Depot. You need a good amount of stretch for the cold shoulder sleeve to hug your arm and not sag.
- The pattern is generously sized. I was able to cut a XS and had room to spare.
- Also, please note, there is a seam down the front, which is a bit unexpected in a tee. It’s was likely added to the pattern to accomodate the ruffle version and the v-neck version. It doesn’t bother me on my solid color tee, but you could elimnate that front seam pretty easily if you wanted to.
Both patterns are keepers, if you ask me!
Now that I’ve made this kimono pattern three times, I think it should enter a special category in my pattern stash; the pattern Hall of Fame, don’t you think? Hmmm, I might have to put together a special post to honor that category :).
Do you have any three-time winners in your pattern stash? I’d love to check them out!
Happy sewing and thanks for stopping by.
Nice work! Love the look from top to toe! I love patterns which you can make repeatedly. I have a 60s vintage pattern that I have made 5 times I think, it’s currently retired. But I can see the Inari being one of those too, and possibly the Skipper by Papercut. So good to find something that just keeps on giving.
Wow, a five time winner! It sounds like it deserved retirement. The Inari is also an awesome pattern. I made it awhile back and then forgot about it, I just might have to give it another try. I haven’t tried the Skipper, but it’s on my wish list. I’ll be ordering more Papercut patterns now that I’ve figured out how to print them at the printshop! The neckline options are great on the Skipper.
I agree. I’ve made the V next twice, but looking forward to making the square neck in the summer as a sort of woven t-shirt option. I’ve already made the Inari twice (both time hacked!!) but can see it will be a staple. Just beautiful style lines.
Yes,, there’s something elegant about the Inari. Another version is definitely in the queue. Thanks for reminding me.
Also: https://spareroomstyle.wordpress.com/tag/simplicity-9037/ (here the evidence)
Hooray for wardrobe staples! I love this kimono and have made the pattern, too! Great outfit!
Thanks! Yes, where would we be without our tried and trues? I’m just glad I finished this in time to wear it before the weather changes!
It’s fabulous when you can find a favourite pattern. Throwing a kimono over your jeans is a very “dressy” idea. You look great!
Love your jacket. I have also made this, but I had not thought of adding to the length. I like the longer length. I also like the idea of putting the cold shoulder top with this, as a option. I just ran across your blog. I like your style! I really enjoy your blog! Keep up the great work. You are a inspiration to all of us sewers!
Thanks for the kind words! I’m so glad you found me . It’s so fun to connect with other sewers. So welcome! I’m sure you love that kimono pattern as much as I do. Short or long, it’s a keeper.