Things have finally settled down a bit ’round here (as much as life can ever truly “settle down”… lol), but enough so that I feel fairly confident about planning out some sewing projects! There are a few gaps in my wardrobe right now, mostly because several garments have seen better days after years of wear (I’m hard on my clothes), so I’m trying to fill those while also sewing a few “fun” pieces. Here’s what I’m hoping to accomplish over the next few months:
Colette Patterns Lily Dress – This is one of the patterns I tested prior to the new line’s release, and it is by far my favorite! The curvy, 1950s bombshell silhouette is one of my favorites, and I love the details like the pockets and princess seams (which make for easy-fitting). While I love the pattern as it’s shown on the envelope, I have a couple ideas for a variation. I’m fairly certain I’d like to swap out the shoulder straps for a halter. The fabric I have earmarked for this pattern is a fun, novelty tropical print I picked up in Florida a couple summers ago. It’s got a tiny bit of stretch, but I think it won’t be a problem (especially since one of the sample dresses was made from a Lycra blend). I think I’d like to make the contrast view, using some black textured fabric I have for the band, halter and pocket flaps.
1940s Sun Top & Shorts – This is definitely a for fun project! I bought this pattern a couple summers ago, and as this year I’m really into the two-piece look (since it’s been stinking hot the past week and the couple 40s/50s midriff tops I’ve made have been in heavy rotation), it’s about time it gets made. The fabric I’m a little iffy about–it’s something I bought last summer on clearance on a whim, thinking it’d work for a 40s tropical look. It just looks a bit boring to me at this point, although since I have three yards of it, I probably should use it. It’s cotton, so at least it’ll be comfortable! I’m thinking it looks a bit like this Tara Starlet two-piece set, so hopefully it’ll work nicely and surprise me. I also *ahem* have a hat that is very similar to the one on the envelope… Instant outfit!
1950s Cigarette Pants – I already started this, but am having some fitting issues. If there is one garment that tends to get to me the quickest with fitting, it’s pants. There is a reason I’ve stuck with 30s and 40s wide leg styles–but I am determined to conquer the more fitted silhouette! It might just take me a bit. lol. I’m using this pattern that Lauren sent me in our swap. It fits relatively well straight out of the envelope, admittedly–but it does need to be tweaked to be perfectly wearable. Time to pull out my copy of Pants for Real People! Not sure what color, but I’m thinking red!!! (Or maybe I’ll be practical and do black…)
Sewaholic Renfrew Top – I have had this pattern sitting in my stash since it was released months ago, which is sad–it needs to be made! Everyone who has made it says it’s quite easy and a great knit top pattern to work with. I ordered a few yards of a cream colored jersey (it has more stretch than the pattern calls for, but I’ve seen others make successful tops with this pattern and jersey knits), which is a bit more tissue-weight than I thought. Does anyone who has worked with knits know if I can do a “double layer” top? (Or is that just a really stupid idea?) I also have a more stable knit polka dot print that I’m planning to make a version inspired by this top. I’m hoping once I’ve made this pattern a couple times, it can be my go-to for knit tops!
I’d also like to make another pair of the Wearing History Smooth Sailing trousers (which I’ve made in the past and tweaked for my 40s jeans). I have some green fabric I bought, but it’s a little more bright than I anticipated (darn computer screen), and I’m going to try over dying it to tone it down a bit. But I really, really want green trousers for this summer. hehe!
Finally, I have another plan up my sleeve, but am holding off showing you until next week. Another blogger and I did a pattern swap and we’re each making one of the patterns we sent each other. Let’s just say the one I’m hoping to make is evocative of my wedding dress–just more suitable to day wear!
There are a few more things I’d like to sew, but this is what I’ve definitely worked out for now. These will keep me busy through July, I’m sure! What are your sewing aspirations for this summer?
Casey, you plans look really wonderful! Can’t wait to see them as you make them!
Oh goodness, I’ve got so many I had to do three posts about my plans!
But I would really like to make some 1940s “starlet” shorts and more tops. I make a ton of dresses, I really could use some separates for a change. Just have to finish my blasted 1890s ball gown and then I’m free to sew as I please!
Ooooo….Casey, I can’t wait to see these made up! The first pattern in that fabric will be gorgeous!
Looks like you’ve got some lovely ideas there! The plan for the Lily dress is especially nice- that fabric is lovely. I agree, I think the contrast version would look nicest. The cigarette pants would look great in red- I have a pair in a similar style and colour I bought last year and they’re really good for summer, and surprisingly easy to work into my wardrobe.
Your plans sound fab Casey. Hhmm, I’m planning on making a halter necked bombshell style dress and have a pattern ready and waiting, so I’ll be VERY interested to see how your Lily pattern turns out with a halter neck. Can’t wait to see it. x
What great sewing plans! I love 1940′s midriff tops and just bought a pattern for one.
Well, it seems I’m not the only one who planned to do the Lily in a Hawaiian inspired fabric! I actually chose this one (http://www.flickr.com/photos/voodoo_rabbit/4817159376/) and just received the fabric AND the pattern this very morning at work! How funny is that?
And still about the Lily, Casey, shall we be allowed to see the version you made to test the pattern?
Have a good day and enjoy your summer sewing!
Your plans sound great! Can’t wait to see the results. I just had a baby so I’m excited to do some post-partum sewing. Never mind at this point I still look kinda pregnant.
. I have a really cute border-print cotton poplin that I’d like to make into a dirndl skirt. I’m brainstorming ways that I can make it to wear now but also take in the waistband as I lose weight (right now I’m thinking about two discreet elastic panels, a la my son’s toddler shorts). I’d also like to make a Sencha or Sorbetto top to go with the skirt. Thats the extent of my summer ambitions with a newborn, a toddler, and a major move in a few weeks! 
Wow! I love the cigarette pants! I think they’ll look amazing on you with your body type!
Go for the red! (or more of a maroon color like the picture you posted), ome on, who cares about being practical.. I’d love to hear about the way you overcame the fitting issues, pants really are so hard to fit to a body! Good Luck!
I LOVE your idea for the Lilly. Actually makes me want to sew it with halter straps too. EEEK! Your summer line-up looks fabulous! I’m excited to see each and every one of the things you’ve picked out!
As far as doubling knit layers, I’ve actually seen that on a few RTW tops before and personally I think it would work. Go for it. I made up a Renfrew for some pjs and couldn’t be happier with it. I need to make it up again and do a few fitting things for it, but I have some fun plans in store for that pattern too.
I’m so giddy about making a 3 piece suit I could cry! After doing the same thing I did to my closet as you’ve done to yours, I have nearly next to nothing left to wear for summer. So I’m really excited to start with a base – 3 piece suit – and then add to it during the summer. Normally I start from the opposite end of the pole and never get around to making any sort of jacket, or anything, but this just feels sooooo good! I’m a nut! What can I say?
xoxo, Sunni
You had me at the sun top and shorts. I love the combo. I am trying to make a two piece too for summer. I love all the fabrics you have for these projects. Perfect for the dog days of summer. I can see the Lily in the brown fabric, let us know how the zipper works out for you, I always wonder about stretch and zippers insertion. Casey, these are just beautiful patterns and ideas, they all should be show stoppers for sure!
Look wonderful! Can’t wait to see the finished products
Ooh what fun project ideas, you’re getting me excited for summer! I love that novelty fabric you’re going to use for Lily, that will really be a knockout. And while you may be a little ho hum about it, I think that tropical print will be absolutely perfect for that play suit set! And omg with that hat, what an outfit!
I just can’t decide about summer sewing! I’m planning at least one casual purse made with feedsack in my stash (which I think will be summery with bamboo handles and novelty print), and I’m hoping for at least a couple of dresses. I’m trying to think of some creative uses for the weensy amount of yardage of the few feedsacks I have collected, so perhaps pockets and trim somehow on a solid dress. And maybe I’ll finally get to shorts with the fabric I bought…last summer lol.
Can’t wait to see the finished project, Casey! they’re gonna be amazing! (As your work usually is!
)
I’m planning on making several summer skirts and dresses along with re-doing some of the pieces I own already.
you have a knack for picking the perfect fabric for a pattern i *don’t* want and then making me want that pattern. immediately. (i’m sure you do this just to tempt me; as i am indeed the center of the universe.)
your summer wardrobe looks delicious!!!
WOW! These are great! I’m particularly in love with the playsuit pattern. *swoon*. Looks perfect for you, so Claire McCardell.
I’m daydreaming of summer wardrobe as well. Must be in the air
I don’t think the fabric for the two-piece outfit is boring at all! Love it and can’t wait to see it.
The 2-piece pattern is SO cute! I love vintage playsuits like that. What websites do you use for ordering fabric online?
Ooh lots of nice ideas! I love the idea of cigarette pants in red – it’s fun for summer and goes with a lot, and make some black ones for autumn. There I am again, saying ‘make both’!
I often double the fabric for knits where it is too thin. You can use the hemline as a fold to avoid hemming, and it works out seamless on the inside as well which is nice. The tank top in my binding tutorial is done like this if you need a look-see!
You certainly can double the knit top bodice fabric. I’m just starting to sew with knits and regularly stalk Marcy Tilton for patterns and fabric. She’s got a tutorial for cutting out knit bodices double right here: http://www.marcytilton.com/index.php?cid=760&cp=5
LOVE those red cigarette pants!
ooohhhh…such lovely projects! YAY for summer!!
i love the pants in red! up until this year, i’ve been a dark or black pant type of gal, but then i got brick red jeans and they’re a terrific neutral (and less hot than black in summer!!). as for the double layer knit, i’ve done something similar. i made a sheer white jersey tee and added a sweetheart ‘bustier’ piece on the front so it was safe for work. i cut out the front panel, turned the edges under and sewed it in place. that was last me-made june i think? it’s been fine since then, goes thru the wash without problems.
good luck and i can’t wait to see what you whip up!
Your post made me want to do some sewing of my own so badly. My skill level beginner and a hand sewer to boot. I have a pinny pattern and a gaucho pants knee length pattern. On hand. And on youtube there is a super easy toturial on how to make a classic rockabilly dress. Also a wrap skirt (pattern not inclued, found an easy wrap skirt how to blog post) I just could not make up my mind what fabric to get. Once I saw your tropical fabric picks I knew right away I wanted a pair of tropical print gauchos and the rockabilly dress. I hope all goes well in your sewing adventurers. Thanks for the inspiration.
I really want to make the Lily dress and then a cropped jacket to go with it for work!
Such a stellar roundup of patterns to work with. I really feel like you’re building a whole micro summer vintage wardrobe unto itself with these fantastic selections and am soooo excited to see the finished products.
Happy sewing, dear gal!
♥ Jessica
Just glimpsed your midriff sunsuit-in-progress on instagram: it looks marvelous! I love the fabric, and love the look on you, particularly with your new bangs. Can’t wait to see the outfit complete.
Best,
Carrie
That first dress is clearly going to be fantastic. I can’t sew. My sewing is going be trying to fix a few hems and loose buttons!
I am loving the tropical print! If the other print is too boring for you then you can always add some funky bright trim which would be awesome. My plans for summer involve and paisley maxi dress, a turquoise shirt dress, a sailor skirt and some patterned sheets that I want to make into dresses, possibly wearable muslins. Woah that is a long list!
Such an inspiration!! I have several dresses in the works…maybe I’ll share ‘em as well. I can proudly say I’ve actually finished one and school’s only been out a matter of days, hurray! My skills are nothing like yours so I’m taking the easy route of sewing one pattern over and over with different fabric. One day I’ll maybe be a little closer to Casey-awesomeness;)
BTW, I tried and tried to respond to your comment on my blog (thank you, btw) and it just won’t cooperate. I cannot wait to see your state chalkboard, it’s the easiest DIY ever! Funny thing is, I came across a lot of vintage Florida postcards my mom collected when I was a kid. I’ll have to share them soon. …Cassie
Good luck, Casey! You were quite an inspiration for me to finally learn how to sew. Just being able to find a pattern and MAKE something is a lot easier than stalking down the perfect vintage item in the perfect size.
Just as a beginner, I would be super nervous about doing a double layer with a thin knit. I personally would just wear a camisole underneath- but I’ll look forward to what you decide to do!
This looks like so much fun! I think I’m really want to get into sewing this summer. Right now I have a big project on my hands with a ballgown that I need to finish for the end of June. So that is my first project then I might actually conquer my fear of patterns and start a new project
I love bright separates for the “bottom” so cigarette pants in red is a super idea! PS… If you think that understated tropical fabric is boring maybe we could trade some… I love it!!
Hey Casey! Looks like you have a fun md-century summer planned. I know you said the fabric you have for the two piece outfit is sort of boring, but I think you could really punch it up with some bright piping or by adding amazing buttons to the should strap and the front of the shorts (sailor style!).
As for me, I’m working on “The Hot Days of Homemade!” If I spent as much time sewing as I do shopping I’d have some mad skills and a killer wardrobe, plus fun home accessories (pillows and curtains). I’m challenging myself to make it happen by banning the purchase of new new things. Make it or buy handmade. I’m pretty excited!
hi cassey!
i ve made those cig pants before. they fit me like a dream
Luckily i didnt need to make any alterations to the original patter!
blogged about it here…
http://blog.boobookittycouture.com/2012/03/cigarette-pants.html
ais x
and another note on the cig pants, they look a million times better with the crease pressed in the front and back, seems to streamline them and make them appear narrower.