Boudoir Top

This little top with an heirloom vibe comes from Hot Pattern’s Artful Dodger Boudoir Tops pattern.  The pattern is out of print but you can see a picture at this link from their Etsy store. 

I used the pattern to create my own custom fitting version using Pattern Master Boutique software from Wild Ginger.  The top consists of a front pintucked panel, a front and back yoke, front and back side panels and a circular ruffle along the bottom.  Narrow lace tops several of the seams, and the neck and armholes are bound with bias strips.  In my version I eliminated the center back button closure.  The fabric is a heavy silk crepe with a buttery feel.  This is a perfect little camisole for wearing on its own or under a jacket.

It’s a cloudy, rainy day where I am but perfect weather for working on some sewing projects.  I hope you find some time for creativity this weekend.

Maharajah Jacket by Hot Patterns

This Hot Patterns little number is a great example of how you can love how a garment turns out but not love wearing it. 

The Maharajah Jacket by Hot Patterns was one of the earlier pattern releases for this company (NB:  some of their earlier patterns are now available in their new Etsy shop).  From their pattern description:  “A modern Jacket shape with an exotic vibe, this is designed for firm fabrics like cotton or silk jacquard, brocade or wool. Snug-fit lined Jacket has Empire waist seam, asymmetric loop & button front fastening, bust darts and slim bracelet length sleeves. Cuffs and wide, shaped neckline feature decorative topstitching. Jacket has lined patch pockets with vertical keyhole opening.”

I loved the look of this fashion-forward garment and made up my first version in charcoal gray wool flannel lined with hot pink bemburg rayon and topstitched with hot pink thread (including self-fabric covered buttons, topstitched in a circular pattern).  I took meticulous care in making this jacket despite some drafting errors in the pattern itself and bare-boned instructions (if you are interested in sewing this jacket please see my full/lengthy review on PatternReview.com).  I really loved how it looked on my mannequin but I didn’t find it flattering on my body.

For my second attempt I took the commercial pattern and I redrafted it in Pattern Master Boutique which drafts patterns to my own unique measurements.  I constructed this version from a lightweight denim and used a rayon challis bandana print for the contrast (which I block fused with interfacing to make it more stable).   I left this version unlined and topstitched with red thread.  I solved several of the drafting issues I encountered the first time around.  I like this version much better and find it more flattering as it fits closer to my body which is how I like to wear my clothes.  I still don't find it very comfortable so it doesn't get as much wear as I would like.  I guess I'll put these in the "practice makes perfect" category and chalk them up as a sewing lesson.