Garments Three and Four Completed

First of all: the photo is not a good one (of me or the clothes). Note to self: I must work on my posing and pouting abilities.

Black Pencil Skirt (Simplicity 3631). The fabric is a black wool suiting with a touch of stretch in it. I made a size 10 and I didn't have to make any adjustments for fit. I did raise the waistband using the article in Sew Stylish which used this wardrobe pattern. I added 3 inches top skirt edge by flipping over the skirt pattern, this was fairly easy to do but I have to say making a facing was rather a hit and miss affair. I also aded some sew-in boning to the side seams of the facing to ensure the skirt dosen't wrinkle. I will make this skirt again but with the regular waist. If I want to make a high waisted skirt, I will get a specific pattern.

White embellished top (Simplicity 3835) This is the same pattern I used for my Christmas dress so I was sure of the fit. Again, I made a size 10 and didn't have to make any alterations. I lowerd the neckline a little and I added a placket which is about 3'' by 5''. I then decorated this with black velvet ric-rac and vintage buttons. The fabric is a fancy woven cotton mix. I can also wear this top as a tunic over trousers.

When I am not sewing, I walk, fell walking that is. Here are a couple of pics from last weekend's walk in the Peak District:

It looks fantastic weather in the photograph but there was a bitterly cold wind and it was VERY boogy. Ten miles later......

Second Garment complete: Denim Skirt

The skirt pattern is Vogue8426 view A. I made a size 10 and I am really pleased with the fit, especially as this was rather a pot luck affair because the waist/hip measurements were not given with the pattern (why oh why???). Fortunately it fits really well and I didn't have to make any adjustments. The pattern went together really well and the instructions were very easy to follow.


I am not sure that it is very clear from this photo but the seams are curved which give a great fitted shape. I used one pleat in the back because I thought the denim might be a bit thick for three but I definitely want to make another of these skirts with three pleats in a wool suiting fabric. You can see the back skirt construction more clearly here.

I would totally recommend this pattern. For a little more effort than a simple pencil skirt you get a very stylish, sexy and well-cut skirt. I love everything about this skirt. and to be honest, my photos don't do it justice.