Jacket: simplicity 2443
top: Alfani, thrifted
Skirt: Vintage (1970s?) Evan Picone skirt, thrifted and shortened
Boots: Kensie Girl
This skirt was at my most frequent thrift stop for at least six months. I liked the color and pattern, but the length (midcalf) was not good for me. I finally brought it home once I really started altering things. I shortened it by 12 (!) inches, and replaced the buttons (one of them was broken.) I find that I’m really loving this shape of skirt for fall (short dirndl with a high, fitted waistband.)
This outfit took me through: teaching, choir rehearsal, singing at a latin mass, and dinner and drinks with friends.
My friends have started to really notice that I make my own clothes, and I’m starting to regularly field questions about them when I go out. Somehow I feel like I’m letting them down when I wear something storebought! Actually, I’m surprised by how positive the reaction has been – somehow I was expecting a little bit more snobbishness, but my friends (who are, admittedly, artsy city types) seem to be into the idea.
I’m trying to spread out my outfit posts a little (maybe you’ve noticed!) It gives me a reason to post more often, and makes Wednesday less stressful. So far the experience has been positive – I find myself very motivated to be creative, and not just throw on whatever.
I have the muslin cut for my cord shirtdress, but so far no time to work on it. I have a dress rehearsal tomorrow night, and a concert Friday… but after that I am off work for an entire week! I can’t wait to see how much I can accomplish with the time off.
Hi,
I’ve been reading your blog for a while now after finding it while clicking through other knitting blogs.
I’m a knitter myself, but I’ve been so impressed by how lovely your finished clothes look that I’m finally going to try doing some dressmaking myself.
I’m sure it’ll take me a while to get up to your standard (and speed!) of sewing, but it’s nice to know there’s hope for novices.
Happy stitching!
Nina
Ooooh, that skirt is beautiful, such a lovely shape and fabric! And I dig you boots…
Ooooh, such a lovely skirt! I love the fabric and shape! And I dig your purple boots…
My work colleagues love the fact that I knit and sew. I’ve even started a little knitting class at work! There is a bit of shyness around wearing your handmade clothes, I agree, but generally people have been so supportive. Great re-fashion, by the way! I still love that jacket.
I love your thrifty finds. And love your boots.
Wait until you get to the stage where people start to go, “oh I won’t ask because I KNOW you made that!” LOL! This is a cute outfit!
Such a pretty look! I’m loving the color palette!
Hee, whenever I wear something slightly non-mainstream, coworkers ask “did you make that?” It’s usually thrifted / vintage or just something unordinary. But them knowing I sew means “you must make a lot of your clothes.” LOL.