Here is the shirt halfway done...
and here it is, finished with buttons and everything (hmm, kinda looks the same). Obviously, I really like this pattern and it works for me.
Now I have to decide "what next?" I have that raw silk I got at a total bargoon but I haven't decided what jacket pattern to use. I am leaning toward something simple and boxy because of the weave. On the other hand, I made a coat from a looser weave with princess seams and everything and it turned out okay, except I didn't really like the finished product. Something about the fabric reminded me of the 70s and Phentex. Remember Phentex? (Now that I see they still exist, I am talking about the "yarn" that I remember from the 70s. Maybe they just invented it then and it was very synthetic. In retrospect, horribly so. I guess at the time, it was cool, to be different from real wool.) Well if you do, you'll know what I mean. And yet, in spite of that reminiscence and not caring much for the coat, I have a yard and a bit left of that purple loose weave and am contemplating making a plain, straight skirt. Because I think I can do it quickly. What, am I nuts? Don't bother to answer.
In the meantime, the zipper on those pants I got at such a bargain from Winners broke - it was defective - and since I only paid $35 for them (lined and wool) I have to replace the zipper. This is something I have never done before. I have put plenty of zippers in garments I made from scratch but never have I replaced one in a manufactured garment. I am dreading it a little. But I really like the pants and I already hemmed them and they are the only dress pants I own. sigh.
And the navy blazer hanging behind the white shirt above needs repair. It is a beautiful classic silk blazer made by Peter Nygaard that I bought when I had lots of money. I wore it so much that I have frayed the hem on the left sleeve where it comes in contact with my watch and didn't notice it until the other day when I wore the jacket for the first time in ages. I might be able to just turn it under a tiny bit - I'll have to think on it.
The blouse looks great! The zipper replacement won't be as hard as it looks at first- I've done one and survived (even wore the skirt later!).
ReplyDeleteWith the fabric- everything old is new again...I swore I'd never wear leg warmers again after the 80s but I found myself seriously contemplating a pair the other day. Keep us posted!
Nice to hear from you Julia. I know what you mean about the zipper replacement. When they go on the jeans in this house, I gather them all up and take them to the alteration shop!!LOL.....much cheaper than me sitting here stressing out...in fact, so cheap that I wouldn't do them for that price.
ReplyDeleteI was thinking about the jacket, how about a chanel style re-do?
I need some shirts too and it is not for lack of shirting fabrics...lol.
BTW, I love your coat....still.
Heather
Sarah, thanks for the words of encouragement - they mean a lot. I am going to give the zipper a whirl.
ReplyDeleteHi Heather! I don't know what it costs to do alterations - it's one of those things where, knowing I can do it myself, I can't justify getting someone else too do it. As for the jacket, I have thought of a Chanel style. I have several older jackets in that style but lately, I seem to have gravitated toward lapels. Maybe if I wait long enough, I'll go back to the round neck.