This weekend we attended the glamorous wedding of Caroline and Gary McArdle. The stunning wedding venue, Farnham Estate in Co. Cavan certainly lived up to the stylish bridal party. I had wanted to stitch up a mustard jumpsuit however, my fabric never arrived on time (my fault!).
Rummaging through my handmade cupboard and fabric stash I decided to give my GBSB Garment of the Week skirt another day out. I had a fabulous royal blue crepe fabric in my pile so I decided to draft up a top that would compliment the skirt. Like most of my designs the garment comes to life on the mannequin as I start draping and styling. So, here’s how I pulled it together.
How I made the top
My top was based on the Simplicity 1606 pattern. I love this bodice pattern - it’s an amazing fit version which allows for closer fit and overall a better finish. I used a royal blue crepe fabric - low maintenance and easy to care for fabric. It drapes so well and is perfect for top and dresses.
Once I constructed the bodice I fitted and made any adjustments to the fit. I then cut the lining and attached boning to the seams of the lining. After fitting was completed I attached the top and lining (right sides together) at the top and under stitched to ensure the lining stays down.
After attaching my corset to the mannequin I cut a sash of fabric and started playing with the design. I decided to pleat the fabric which fell over my shoulder. Pinning like crazy I found my perfect design and fit.
Opening the front seam I slipped the sash between the seam and stitched it up. I did the same at the back. Pressing the pleats ensured the sash would maintain its shape. The top was finished at the back with an invisible zipper. With a built in bra and boning this top stayed up with no tugging and pulling.
The Belt
I wanted to give the impression that the two piece outfit was a dress so I created a belt from the crepe fabric. The belt is closed using button loops and pearl buttons.
The Skirt
Yes - this is BBC’s Great British Sewing Bee Garment of the Week. The fabric was purchased in Mrs Sew and Sew, Portadown and the pattern was based on the Burda 7089.
I used the fitted skirt and drafted my own peplum bottom. Using a royal blue bias bind I covered piping to create the piped seam at the base of the skirt and top of top of the peplum. Finally the skirt was finished with bias hem and invisible zipper.
Overall look - I loved this look! I felt like a million dollars. Royal blue has been my colour of choice for 2017 and can be worn all year around. Stitched up on my lovely Janome Horizon - I love it :)
If you have any questions pop them below.
Love,
Angeline xx
Comments