A Moto Jacket, part of a..capsule wardrobe?!?

March 31, 2017.Reading time 6 minutes.

When Pattern Review announced their Wardrobe Sudoku Contest, I said, Never! 10 garments in two months that all have to coordinate with each other and shoes and accessories? Too mind-boggling for me. So I told myself I’d play along and use only fabric from my stash. Well, the phrase, ‘never say never’ now clearly applies […]

A Ruffle Skirt and Cold Shoulder Top

March 24, 2017.Reading time 4 minutes.

If you told me a year ago that I would be sewing a ruffle wrap skirt in denim for Spring, I would have laughed out loud. Ruffles have never been my thing. But if you show me enough of a trend, I am usually happy to hop on board! Such is the case with this […]

A lace top inspired by Dolce & Gabbana

June 8, 2016.Reading time 3 minutes.

I used to think lace was reserved for prom dresses, frilly wedding dresses and other hyper-girlie looks. But I think I’ve given that up. I can’t resist the combination of feminine lace with the edge of denim it seems. And if the lace is blue, I’m all in! My inspiration for this top was this tunic […]

Simplicity 1280: Crossover Top Times Two

April 29, 2016.Reading time 5 minutes.

I will admit. When it comes to sewing a top, I am a bit of a speed demon. I’m happiest when I’m sewing fast, and I will not stop until I’m done. Yes, I can leave a coat, jacket or dress on the sewing table to be completed another day, but a top? No way! […]

Sew Boho: Bell Sleeves and a Cardi-Vest

April 8, 2016.Reading time 5 minutes.

I’m calling this look ‘boho’, even though some might call it ‘romantic.’ The top has bell sleeves, my favorite look this Spring. I love them because they signal warm weather and outdoor concerts and summer food festivals, you know? Here are a couple of ready-to-wear examples for inspiration; a top by Elizabeth and James, and […]

A Tale of Two Morris Blazers

April 3, 2016.Reading time 5 minutes.

A person can never have enough throw-on blazers, am I right? If you’re wearing a springy top or a dress and a bit of wind happens your way, it’s so handy to have a little blazer or cardigan to pop over it. The Morris Blazer by Grainline Studios is just one of those little toppers […]

Sew the look: A denim shirtdress

March 17, 2016.Reading time 5 minutes.

It’s Spring, the perfect time for shirt dresses. There’s nothing easier to wear when the weather’s warm than a simple dress, and if it’s made from denim…well, that’s even better!! Here are some of the shirt dresses that inspired me this Spring. First up…Burberry’s version. Perfect in dark denim, with princess seams and topstitching. Made well’s […]

I’m having a blue moment…

May 11, 2015.Reading time 4 minutes.

For a complete review of Butterick 6097, please visit my blog, Ellegeemakes.com

Spring means Tees!

March 27, 2015.Reading time 3 minutes.

The temperature hit seventy degrees today in Portland, tee-shirt weather! It’s time to store my winter wools in favor of cotton, linen, maybe even silk. Perhaps this wardrobe shift is a bit premature (we’ve had snow in April before), but I’m determined to embrace the change. When the rain stops, I’m always in the mood […]