McCalls 7314: Burberry knock-off

May 14, 2016.Reading time 4 minutes.

As you all know, I’ve got a thing for Burberry’s classic designs, and the Spring 2016 collection was one of the best. Being peplum obsessed, I couldn’t help but fall in love with this cute shirt. Okay, as Burberry prices go, the tag on this one wasn’t totally ridiculous…only $350. Yes, it’s a lot, but […]

Sew the look: Denim and Lace

May 7, 2016.Reading time 4 minutes.

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 […]

Florals, Cut-Out Shoulders and Pants

April 17, 2016.Reading time 5 minutes.

This summer, I’m going to be vacationing in Europe during the hottest days of July. Of course, this means a bit of wardrobe planning, a task I take on willingly! A quick review of my closet revealed the truth. I have very few summery tops, and I could use a few light weight skirts and […]

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 […]

Vogue 9166: A sleek and sporty basic

March 4, 2016.Reading time 4 minutes.

When I saw the new Vogue patterns for Spring, I could hardly believe my luck. Those lovely designers read my mind!! I’ve been looking for a dress pattern with two-piece sleeves since the sporty trend began last Spring. Even though no one has ever described me as athletic, I sure like to look like I […]

Thursday Top: Vogue 8815

February 4, 2016.Reading time 5 minutes.

Well, here we are in February, the month that straddles the seasons. The fabric stores are flaunting new lightweight cottons and linens. Yet, I’m still working through my stash of sweater knits. At this point, it’s probably ridiculous to state the obvious – I am a fan of sweater knits. As I’ve confessed before, it’s […]

McCall’s 6708: An animal print cardigan

January 27, 2016.Reading time 5 minutes.

Yes, it’s a jungle out there! A bit of a cliche’ perhaps, but what better way is there to describe what’s happening in the sewing blog world these days? Everywhere, fabulous makes are being crafted from jungle worthy fabrics as part of #Jungle January, a month long walk on the wild side. This […]

Vogue 8831: A sweater knit top with zippers

January 19, 2016.Reading time 5 minutes.

Since I don’t knit, I’ve become a huge fan of sweater knits. With only a few yards of the cozy stuff, you can cut and sew almost any style sweater you want. Here, in rainy Oregon, a person can NEVER have too many sweaters. For this top, I used two coordinating sweater knits from my […]