RuthieK's 2008 PatternReview Wardrobe Contest Blog

Fabrics for August Mini Wardrobe Contest

2008-07-27T15:18:00.000-07:00

Fabrics for August Mini Wardrobe Contest

Top, embellished blouse fabric
Left, dark brown lace knit
Centre, variegated knit
Right, linen mix fabric

All the garments being worn

2008-04-29T15:27:00.001-07:00

All the garments being worn

RuthieK's PR Wardrobe 2008 "Just before the sunset" - Master review

Prima October 1999 Bias Cut top

2008-04-29T09:57:00.001-07:00

Prima October 1999 Bias Cut top
Not the most successful garment made this year!

Copied from RTW headband

2008-04-28T14:04:00.001-07:00

Copied from RTW headband
PR review of Headband
Cut fabric pieces as follows:-
one piece 16 inches by 7 inches.
two pieces each 4.5 inches by 12 inches.
neaten the long edges of the first piece and turn under and stitch.
Fold the narrow pieces in half and sew along the long edges and diagonally across the corner, turn and press.
Tuck the exposed edges under and press.
Now pleat the wide piece and tuck the ends into the narrow pieces - topstitch to secure and wear.
This can be worn many different ways
1. Use as a cumberbund with the pleated section at the front and tie at the back (for a wider waist you may need to lengthen the tie for this)
2. Wear with the pleated section under you hair and the ties showing on the top of the head.
3. Wear with the pleated section gathered up and a headband with the ties hidden under your hair.
4. Spread out the pleated section in the style of a headscarf and tie under your hair.
5. Tie at the neck as a neckerchief.

New Look 6430 Top

2008-04-28T13:34:00.000-07:00

I sewed this New Look 6430 Top in a rust knit. It wasn't as stretchy as the pattern envelope required, so a cut it a bit larger.

New Look 6430 Knit Top

Simplicity 4699 Cropped Pants

2008-04-20T15:40:00.000-07:00

Simplicity 4699 Cropped Pants
Here is the Simplicity 4699 cropped pant in a drapey poly/viscose mix cropped pant. I cut a broad band for the waistline and inserted a wide elastic, eliminating the zipper.
A quick and easy garment and part of my PR Wardrobe 2008.

PR Wardrobe progress

2008-04-19T15:23:00.001-07:00

My Wardrobe Plan

My plans/progress for the Pattern review Wardrobe Contest 2008 are as follows:-
* Dark navy brocade coat - completed - Simplicity 4699 Navy Jacket
* Peach shell knit top - completed - Simplicity 4699 Peach Top
* Navy skirt - completed - Loes Hinse Gore Skirt
* Navy denim pants - completed - New Look 6415 Denim Pants
* Burnt orange knit top - completed - Simplicity 4076 Knit Top

Dark navy brocade bag - CUT OUT
Burnt orange stripe blouse -CUT OUT

Still to decide
Another top
Another skirt
Another pant

New Look 6415 Pants

2008-04-19T14:31:00.000-07:00

New Look 6415 Pants

Simplicity 4076 Knit Top

2008-04-19T14:05:00.000-07:00

Simplicity 4076 Knit Top

Simplicity 4699 jacket/coat

2008-04-19T13:26:00.001-07:00

Simplicity 4699 jacket/coat

Current plans

2008-04-14T23:37:00.001-07:00

I finished my Timmel SWAP and am just doing a few more photos.
Timmel SWAP by RuthieK

I didn't want my PR entry to be just the Timmel SWAP with a bag, so I've gone for a variation on the colour scheme and only 2 of the garments (2 knit tops) are in both wardrobes. Some of this is because other items which would work were sewn before the PR contest started.

So I have 5 garments completed, 2 items cut out and ready to sew and fabric but not confirmed patterns and only 2 weeks left to sew it all and enter all the reviews.

Wrap knit top, stretch denim pants and brocade lined coat

2008-04-10T14:21:00.000-07:00

Wrap knit top, stretch denim pants and brocade lined coat

More items done

2008-03-23T16:45:00.000-07:00

I still have one more day on the Easter holiday weekend, but I am pleased with my progress so far.
Completed:-
Navy brocade jacket (lined with pockets and buttons)
Navy denim bootcut pants (stretch with back zip)
Red orange knit wrap top from Simplicity 4076

already done
Peach shell top
Navy gore skirt

So I have 5 items completed for the wardrobe

Still to come by the end of April:-
navy brocade bag
2 more bottoms
1 blouse
1 knit top

First Outfit!

2008-03-17T12:02:00.000-07:00

here's the first completed outfit

Simplicity 4699 Jacket/Coat in navy brocade in progress.

2008-03-15T03:11:00.001-07:00

Simplicity 4699 Jacket/Coat in navy brocade in progress.

I know I've not been reporting much here on the blog. I have started sewing the Simplicity 4699 Jacket/Coat in navy brocade and its going well.
This is part of my PR wardrobe. I had originally planned a burnt orange jacket/coat which I will still sew, but I decided that I'm going for the navy in the wardrobe to make more of an ensemble look with the yet to be made navy bottoms.
I've also decided to line it, although this isn't included in the pattern as the brocade is cotton and not in the least bit slidey I think it would be hard to get on and off without.

So I have a lot to do yet - attach collar and facing and sleeves, and add lining.
Photos will come later :-)

reorg time

2008-02-25T15:14:00.000-08:00

I have been reorganising my computer and sewing space into one hobby room, and decided to start by packing everything up and repainting the room. The paint job is great now just have to unpack and arrange everything in the right place.
I won't be sewing for a little while, but at least have the computer working again!

I realise this was a crazy thing to do during the wardrobe contest but when I got the idea to do it I just wanted to get it done not wait any longer, and hopefully I will be massively productive once my space is ready.

Simplicity 4699 Peach Top

2008-02-16T09:27:00.000-08:00

Simplicity 4699 Peach Top

Cut out first top Simplicity 4699

2008-02-14T14:52:00.001-08:00

Tonight I cut out my first garment for the 2008 Pattern Review Wardrobe Contest.
Its the knit shell from Simplicity 4699 in dark peach slinky. It has two pieces - a front and a back so all the time goes on finishing off all the edges, with special care being taken with the neckline.
Hopefully it will be finished Friday/Saturday and you can see me modelling it. I always think its more helpful to see the garments on a real, no model body, then you know what it looks like in a size 16 :-)

Wardrobe Plans

2008-02-02T01:14:00.000-08:00

My plans for the Pattern review Wardrobe Contest 2008 are as follows:-
Burnt orange coat
Rust cropped pants
Peach shell knit top
Burnt orange crinkle blouse
Cream blouse
Peach blouse
Navy pants
Navy skirt
Navy denim pants
Brown faux leather tote

I will post individual reviews as I complete the garments.
I plan for the burnt orange coat, the peach shell and the tote bag to be from Simplicity 4699. And I may well make one or all of the pants from this too and really get my money's worth from the pattern.

The burnt orange crinkle blouse is likely to be a wrapover with sleeves though the details are not worked out yet. Its lovely fabric which I bought on the PR weekend in Germany in 2007, but the crinkliness is likely to be the challenge there.

The peach blouse is from quite a sheer fabric, its a light peach and maybe no good for my skintone, so it may yet not make it. I will ask a couple of my girlfriends before I spend time on it.

The navy skirt will probably be from the Loes Hinse Gore skirt, heavily modified, and the cream blouse is going to be a women's shirt style blouse with shaping etc.

Let's see how much I match up to my original plan going forward.

My plan for 2008

2008-01-30T00:26:00.000-08:00

There's a lot of debating about accessories and other variations to the plan, but I am sticking to the core as I see it and making a jacket, 4 tops, 4 bottoms and a bag.
Any of the tops can be worn with any of the bottoms and with or without the jacket and/or bag which seems pretty mix and match to me.

Sewing on this cannot start until 1st Feb which is fine as the things I am working on now are only for the Timmel SWAP which has different timescales and rules. That is Friday though! and I probably won't have finished everything planned for January by the end of Thursday night LOL

PR Wardrobe Contest

2008-01-30T00:22:00.000-08:00

The 2008 PR Wardrobe contest starts on 1 Feb which is this Thursday.
The discussion thread on Pattern review is here
http://sewing.patternreview.com/cgi-bin/sewingclasses/board.pl?t=27944

Here's the rules:-
Contest dates: February 1st to April 30th

There will be two winners based on votes
Special condition: only PR members who have been on the site for more than 3 months can join this contest.

Prizes: First Prize: $175 gift certificate from Fabric.com. Second prize : $125 gift certificate from Fabric.com. Both winners are based on reader votes.

Rules and FAQ for the 2008 Wardrobe Contest

Total pieces required: 10

Out of which:
1 should be an accessory
- one of the following Scarf/Belt/Bag/Hat/Gloves/Shoes/Slippers. Since this is a standalone item, you don't really have to make it from the fabric you used for your wardrobe, but it should go with at least one or two outfits. So for a black/brown/white wardrobe, a purse with a wild geometric print in black and red is allowed. But gloves made from lime green leather are not.

A note on scarves and belts. A piece of fabric with rolled hem will not be allowed a scarf, same thing applies to a belt. Both items should have some design element to them. If you have doubts about your accessory not being counted, please check with the Contest manager or Deepika before you start to work on it.
1 should either be a Jacket or a Dress
- The dress should still have something in common with the wardrobe. So, either the fabric should go with the rest of the wardrobe, or the style should match, example if you are sewing a vintage style wardrobe, the dress should echo that. Or if you are doing a black/white/brown wardrobe, the dress can't be pink or aqua. Get the picture?? Same thing goes for the jacket. You can use a different fabric for the jacket. So for a black/white/brown wardrobe, you can use a tweedy fabric as long as it ties the colors.

4 Bottoms (Pants/Capris/Skirts)

4 Tops (T-Shirts/Blouses/Sweaters)

FAQ
1. Can I enter more than 10 pieces?
You can enter more pieces in your Wardrobe as long as you meet the requirements above ( 1 accessory, 1 dress/jacket, 50% tops, 50% bottoms). So if you are entering 14 items, 6 of them should be tops and 6 bottoms.

2. Can I enter items from my other contests on or outside of PatternReview.com?
As long as your entries meet the requirements of this contest you can enter the items.

3. Can I start sewing/cutting before February 1st?
All the sewing and cutting should be done within the contest dates. So Feb - April. You can use the time before that to make your wardrobe plan, test your patterns, pre-treating your fabric etc.

4. How should I enter the items in the contest?
Create a Master WIP (work in progress) type review on PR with "Other" as the Pattern Company and "Wardrobe Contest 2008" as the Pattern Number. As you make items for your entry, you can just edit your master WIP review and add more info. If you are using a pattern which you haven't reviewed before, add a separate review for it so there is a record. Then you can just link to that review from your Master WIP review. When you are ready to submit the entry to the contest report, create a photo with all the items in it. I will provide more info on this later.

5. Can I enter cardigans or twin sets as tops?
Yes, you can.

6. Are knitted (machine or hand) or crocheted items allowed?
No, they are not.

7. I am doing hand rolled hems and hand beading the edges on my scarves. Will that count?
Unfortunately, this will not count. A good example of a scarf which will be allowed is Ripply Scarf from Issue #119 Threads Magazine

8. Do I need to do a storyboard?
No, it's not a requirement. If you'd like to do a storyboard, then please do. However, at the end of the contest you do need to have one photo with all your items in it.

9. Can I amend my storyboard after the contest start date?
Yes! As long as your wardrobe pieces all tie together by the end of the contest.

10. If I've entered an item in the contest and it turns out that it doesn't coordinate with my wardrobe, can I replace it?
Yes, you can. Please let me know and I will un-enter the item for you.

11. What is a 'design element' as far as the scarf or belt is concerned?
Think about sewn elements – so multiple pattern pieces, or pleats, darts, frills etc.

12. What about shoes and slippers?
Shoes which are moulded, glued or made with a special cobbler’s sewing machine are not allowed. Shoes or slippers which would count (and able to be made on a home sewing machine) could be ones made as part of a wardrobe for an infant or toddler, for example.

13. Can I make an apron or lingerie as my accessory?
Unfortunately, no. However, if you would like to make these items in addition to your other wardrobe items, please do!

14. Can I enter shorts as a bottom?
Yes, you can.

15. Do the wardrobe items need to be coordinating?
Yes. The whole wardrobe should be cohesive and look like a wardrobe. Something you'll be able to mix and match in a jiffy and not worry about it. Any extra items you make (over the minimum 10) should also match. Please see the rules above for more details on dresses and jackets.

16. A vest can count as a top or a jacket, depending on whether you wear it alone, or with something underneath.

17. A capelet (which just covers your shoulders) would count as an accessory.

18. A cape or poncho doesn't fall into any of the categories, so couldn't be included as one of the items in the wardrobe.

Plans for Pattern Review Wardrobe 2008

2008-01-26T09:57:00.000-08:00

July 2007 Pattern Review Wardrobe Summary

2008-01-26T09:52:00.000-08:00

One Pattern Multiple Looks - Simplicity 5099

2007-07-31T14:09:00.000-07:00

One Pattern Multiple Looks - Simplicity 8357

2007-07-31T13:52:00.000-07:00

Wardobe plus bag (cut out version)

2007-07-29T14:48:00.001-07:00

Dress and bag

2007-07-29T14:29:00.000-07:00

2007-07-29T14:12:00.001-07:00

Simplicity 7161 Soft Bag

2007-07-29T13:19:00.001-07:00

OPML using Simplicity 5099 - so far

2007-07-28T01:11:00.000-07:00

One Pattern Multiple Looks using Simplicity 5099 - so far

PR Wardrobe Together

2007-07-27T16:20:00.000-07:00

PR Wardrobe Together

The dress from Simplicity 5099

2007-07-27T14:07:00.000-07:00

Here is the dress made from Simplicity 5099. It hangs better on my body, as it needs some hippage to get the skirt to hang straight!

Current progress vs plan

2007-07-25T15:26:00.000-07:00

I have done the ticked items, plus the cream top below, and plan the dress next plus a little bag in the dark coral. I think at that point I shall declare it 'done' for the contest at least, and maybe sew some extra items in a Sew Along afterwards.

Ivory Shimmer Version of 5099

2007-07-22T11:09:00.000-07:00

Here's the latest version of 5099.
This one uses a cream fabric which I think is linen/cotton blend with filament metallic look fibres in it which give it shimmer.
In the end I chose to do the embroidery in taupe rather than a colour as such, and I think it works well, what do you think?

Next version of Simplicity 5099

2007-07-17T14:44:00.000-07:00

I have started the next version of Simplicty 5099. This time it has a V neck (I cut the front on the fold instead of two pieces) with a facing instead of a bias strip. It has longish sleeves and the body is cut 4 1/2 inches longer than the pattern.
The fabric is in a lovely ivory tone with goldy metallic threads running through it. My subtle take on the 'metallic' look that's all the rage this year.
I plan to do simple machine embroidery (width of zig zag) on the neckline, sleeve hems and underbust seam and have been experimenting with colours and stitches. Not sure if soft green, golden orange and deep peach is overdoing things but that would tie it in with the other wardrobe items. I think some more samples are needed to decide before I go ahead.

Simplicity 5099 Version 4

2007-07-15T14:34:00.000-07:00

Simplicity 5099 Version 4 is cut the original length of the pattern with short sleeves. It uses a handbag print stretch shirting fabric and is trimmed with white and turquoise braid.

Finished Lampshades Duro style top from Simplicity 5099

2007-07-13T13:05:00.000-07:00

Here's the finished Lampshades Duro style top

Lampshade Duro top in progress

2007-07-10T14:14:00.000-07:00

I have started on the latest version of Simplicity 5099. This one is in the Lampshade fabric, with contrast plain aqua style in a simplified Duro homage. It's only half done and I can't stop laughing. I've not had so much fun sewing a garment in a long time.

The details are that I cut the neckband twice the original width and sewed it so that it shows, I also have added bands at the bottom of the sleeves which are 7/8ths here (bracelet length) and a sewn in band (with no ties) just under the bust. The main body has also been cut 6" longer to be tunic length. I decided not to add a lower band as I don't need a horizontal line there.

From a distance it looks like a slightly angular floral print and then you look a little closer , and (if you are me) can't stop laughing. DH is horrified that I want to make clothing out of such silly fabric which may limit its wear to shopping on Saturdays!

Lampshade blouse

2007-07-08T15:58:00.000-07:00

My next variation of Simplicity 5099 is going to be out of this slightly mad fabric which has standard lamps with lampshades all over it, done with contrast aqua bands in a slightly Duro style (though still a top). I can't tell which way is 'up' as the lampstands go in both directions. Which do you think is better?

Stripe shirting top complete

2007-07-08T12:59:00.000-07:00

Simplicity 5099 with added collar in striped shirting fabric. I am pleased with how this came out.

My city safari lacks a safari jacket

2007-07-08T07:35:00.000-07:00

My city safari is so far rather lacking in a safari style jacket.
And I think Simplicty 4231 fits the bill if I use View A ( which they have in coral) in a light khaki fabric plus I will add a lining as well I think.

My stripe fabric for another top

2007-07-07T03:35:00.000-07:00

Latest progress

2007-07-07T03:09:00.000-07:00

Not sure about this dress

2007-07-07T03:00:00.001-07:00

Proper Pattern Pics for 6008

2007-07-06T15:15:00.000-07:00

New Look 6008 Pants

2007-07-06T14:03:00.001-07:00

Interesting Style Idea

2007-07-03T00:35:00.001-07:00

From New Look 6684 which I don't own. I liked this combination of pants in a simialr colour to mine, a camisole and looser over top.

Dark coral pants and cropped jacket

2007-07-02T14:40:00.001-07:00

Dark coral pants and cropped jacket

Home Dec Entry 3

2007-06-30T16:00:00.000-07:00

Napkin rings

Entry 2 for Home Dec Contest

2007-06-30T15:08:00.000-07:00

Recycled table mats to match kitchen curtains.

And with Sewing Room Helper!

Entry for Home Dec Contest

2007-06-30T12:49:00.001-07:00

If I enter a contest on PR I try to sew something and post it, even if I can't do everything I planned.
Cushion to make the Ikea toy box - used for current sewing projects next to the sewing machine - into a window seat of sorts.

Progress in Pictures

2007-06-21T12:38:00.001-07:00

1/2 way through the contest

2007-06-21T12:23:00.000-07:00

AnneM has reminded us today that we are half way through the contest of sewing 10 co-ordinating wardrobe items.

So far I have sewn 2 pairs pants, 3 tops and 1 bolero jacket - so 6 items out of the 10.

I also have another pair of pants partly completed so the date looks quite achievable.

I still have not decided quite what to count as my 'accessory' item, either the bolero jacket or maybe sew a tote bag (although I have lost the pattern)

So still to sew as a minimum are

partly completed pants (to match bolero jacket)
dress
stripe shirting top
plus one more item either the khaki tote bag or another top

once those are done I may sew some other co-ordinating items or go off and sew somthing else completely different!

Khaki Pants #2

2007-06-21T11:49:00.000-07:00

Here's another pair of pants made from my TNT elastic waist pattern - Simplicity 7187 long out of print.
These ones are in a khaki green microfibre.
This pair I have worn all day which shows they crinkle badly but they are nice and comfy.

Top completed - Simplicity 5099

2007-06-20T15:07:00.000-07:00

Here's my completed top made from Simplicity 5099.
I combined elements but I suppose it is closest to View B, without the wierd gathering on the sleeves, and with the shorter bell sleeves from View D

Lovely fabric

2007-06-17T09:05:00.000-07:00

I went to the fabric store today to purchase zips, lining etc in Khaki to finish up my plan.
I did buy those things but I also bought this linen mix printed fabric, which almost looks like its embroidered.

It has a soft-black background with printed flower design. (soft-black is like when you print something in econo mode and its not really dark black) I am imagining it as jacket with plain soft-black bottoms and simple plain bright tops.
Absolutely scrumptious.

holes in my wardrobe' sewing plan

2007-06-13T15:20:00.001-07:00

I am only part way through and as ever on the long contests my energy wanes I get distracted and want to start sewing things which are not on the plan.

The weather had been very warm here which showed up that I need more light weight trousers smart enough for work, also co-ordinating little jackets, but none of those things are on the current plan which has me doubting a little on the way forward.

I almost need a 'holes in my wardrobe' sewing plan of the stuff I actually need. perhaps I will drop out and do that instead LOL.

Fabrics for rest of Wardrobe

2007-06-09T15:16:00.000-07:00

Fabrics for rest of Ward -robe

These are the other fabrics I plan to use to complete the wardrobe.
Top left, bright coral crinkle, top in S5099.
Top right, stripe shirting, shirt/top TBA
Bottom left, print cotton lawn, dress in S5099 adapated
Bottom right, khaki for pants and bag, pattern TBA.

The in progress pants are in the same fabric as the little bolero jacket in the bar on the right.

Fabrics and in progress pants

2007-06-09T15:15:00.001-07:00

here are the fabrics for the remaining garments with in the in progress pants folded on the top.

RTW purchase

2007-06-09T15:12:00.001-07:00

This pic shows a recent RTW purchase. A top which works pretty well with the planned Khaki pants and the partly completed Rusty Coral pants.

Replanning results

2007-06-09T14:12:00.000-07:00

Ok the results of my replanning are that the wardrobe pretty much stands as is only I am going to remove the khaki jacket and skirt and add a khaki tote bag instead.
So the items are:-
1 Khaki elastic waist pants (done)
2 Coral and cream print knit top (done)
3 Coral cowl neck top (done)
4 Rust pink bolero jacket (done)
5 Rust pink pants (in progress)
6 Coral mock wrap blouse (*)
7 Stripe wrap blouse
8 Cotton lawn print dress in khaki/orange/pink (*)
9 Khaki pants 2 - not sure of style
10 Khaki Tote bag

I have a lot of co-ordinating fabrics for this Wardrobe collection, so I may go on and sew another stage myself, either once I have finished the items above but still within the competition timeframe OR sometime later on in the summer.

I'm also participating in the One Pattern, Multiple Looks (June 1 to July 31) competition and the items marked (*) are also being entered into that! So maybe I will sew some more variations of that pattern once I am done with the main Wardrobe list!
I sat with my sewing notebook and came up with '26' variations on Simplicity 5099. Obviously I would not do them all, but I could manage more than 2 I reckon.

New plans

2007-06-09T12:32:00.000-07:00

I will have to have a bit of a rethink and see how I can adapt my plan to fit with the new rules.
I have only sewn 4 things and have 1 in progress so I think that its no great problem to me once I work through the options available.
Plus have a think of what accessory item I can sew.

Permutations

2007-06-09T10:54:00.001-07:00

The basic concept of the contest, with the new rules, is still the same: sew a wardrobe.

I"ll have to go through & verify the permutations again, but with the new rules, the combinations look at be:

3 bottoms, 6 tops, 1 accessory

3 bottoms, 5 tops, 1 dress, 1 accessory

3 bottoms, 4 tops, 2 dresses, 1 accessory

4 bottoms, 5 tops, 1 accessory

Twist to contest rules

2007-06-09T10:53:00.000-07:00

The updated rules:-

We are adding a fun little "twist" in our contest. I know I know its late to add this but I am pretty sure that all your current sewing will count...

A total of 10 pieces are required. You can certainly make more if you wish.

One item must be an accessory sewn by you. It could either be a Bag, Hat, Gloves or Shoes/Slippers

There are no specific requirements on what garment pieces you will make in this as long as there are More Tops than Bottoms and there are atleast 3 bottoms

All Tops should coordinate with at least TWO Bottoms. This rule does not apply if you are making a dress.

One of the items in the 10 pieces you make can be a knitted item. i.e. Hand knit by you. Knitting machine items do not qualify

Simplicity 5099, Top and dress

2007-06-05T08:51:00.000-07:00

I'm still working on my pants but after that I am going to sew
Simplicity 5099

first as a top and then as a dress

12 piece wardrobe plans for the Winters

2007-06-05T07:39:00.001-07:00

Deep Winter
1. Jacket: Black
2. Jacket: Red
3. Dress: Red
4. Skirt: Black
5. Skirt: Red
6. Skirt: Black /red Pattern or blend
7. Trousers: Black
8. Blouse: White
9. Blouse: Red /lemon /white pattern
10. Blouse: Lemon
11. Blouse: Red and white
12. Sweater/Wrap: White

Cool Winter
1. Jacket: Navy
2. Jacket: Stone
3. Dress: Magenta
4. Skirt: Navy
5. Skirt: Stone
6. Skirt: Navy and stone weave or pattern
7. Trousers: Navy
8. Blouse: Magenta
9. Blouse: Magenta and navy
10. Blouse: Navy and stone
11. Blouse: Navy
12. Sweater/Wrap: Navy

Clear Winter
1. Jacket: Charcoal
2. Jacket: Royal blue
3. Dress: Royal blue
4. Skirt: Charcoal
5. Skirt: Royal blue
6. Skirt: Charcoal /Royal clue pattern or blend
7. Trousers: Charcoal
8. Blouse: White
9. Blouse: Icy blue
10. Blouse: Charcoal and Icy Blue
11. Blouse: White and Royal blue
12. Sweater/Wrap: White

12 piece wardrobe plans for the Autumns

2007-06-05T07:33:00.000-07:00

Soft Autumn
1. Jacket: Olive
2. Jacket: Khaki
3. Dress: Bittersweet
4. Skirt: Olive
5. Skirt: Khaki
6. Skirt: Olive/Khaki/Ivory Weave
7. Trousers: Olive
8. Blouse: Ivory and olive
9. Blouse: Bittersweet
10. Blouse: Bittersweet and olive
11. Blouse: Ivory and olive
12. Sweater/Wrap: Olive

Warm Autumn
1. Jacket: Golden brown
2. Jacket: Bronze
3. Dress: Light Clear Gold
4. Skirt: Golden brown
5. Skirt: Bronze
6. Skirt: Golden brown and bronze weave
7. Trousers: Golden brown
8. Blouse: Light Clear Gold
9. Blouse: Bronze and Light Clear Gold
10. Blouse: Buff
11. Blouse: Bronze and buff
12. Sweater/Wrap: Bronze

Deep Autumn
1. Jacket: Black brown
2. Jacket: Rust
3. Dress: Marigold
4. Skirt: Black brown
5. Skirt: Rust
6. Skirt: Black brown / Rust weave
7. Trousers: Black brown
8. Blouse: Rust and Ivory
9. Blouse: Rust and Marigold
10. Blouse: Ivory
11. Blouse: Marigold
12. Sweater/Wrap: Black brown

12 piece wardrobe plans for the Summers

2007-06-05T07:15:00.001-07:00

Light Summer
1. Jacket: Light charcoal
2. Jacket: Medium blue
3. Dress: Rose
4. Skirt: Light charcoal
5. Skirt: Medium blue
6. Skirt: Light charcoal / Medium blue / Soft white weave
7. Trousers: Light charcoal
8. Blouse: Soft white
9. Blouse: Soft white and grey
10. Blouse: Medium blue and soft white
11. Blouse: Medium blue and rose
12. Sweater/Wrap: Medium blue

Cool Summer
1. Jacket: Blue charcoal
2. Jacket: Soft white
3. Dress: Raspberry
4. Skirt: Charcoal blue-grey
5. Skirt: Soft white
6. Skirt: Blue charcoal and Soft white weave
7. Trousers: Blue charcoal
8. Blouse: Soft white
9. Blouse: Raspberry
10. Blouse: Raspberry, Blue charcoal and Soft white
11. Blouse: Icy Pink
12. Sweater/Wrap: Soft white
Soft Summer
1. Jacket: Pewter
2. Jacket: Amethyst (pinky purple)
3. Dress: Dusty Rose
4. Skirt: Pewter
5. Skirt: Amethyst
6. Skirt: Pewter /Amethyst /Soft White
7. Trousers: Pewter
8. Blouse: Dusty Rose
9. Blouse: Soft White and Amethyst
10. Blouse: Pewter and Amethyst
11. Blouse: Pewter and Dusty Rose
12. Sweater/Wrap: Pewter

12 piece wardrobe plans for the Springs

2007-06-05T06:39:00.000-07:00

Clear Spring
1. Jacket: Charcoal
2. Jacket: Warm pink
3. Dress: Purple
4. Skirt: Charcoal
5. Skirt: Warm pink
6. Skirt: Charcoal & Warm Pink weave
7. Trousers: Charcoal
8. Blouse: Purple
9. Blouse: Warm pink & charcoal
10. Blouse: Ivory
11. Blouse: Warm pastel pink
12. Sweater/Wrap: Charcoal

Warm Spring
1. Jacket: Golden Brown
2. Jacket: Buttermilk
3. Dress: Rust
4. Skirt: Golden Brown
5. Skirt: Buttermilk
6. Skirt: Golden Brown/Rust/Buttermilk Weave
7. Trousers: Golden Brown
8. Blouse: Yellow gold
9. Blouse: Golden Brown and Buttermilk
10. Blouse: Buttermilk and Rust
11. Blouse: Rust and Yellow Gold
12. Sweater/Wrap: Golden Brown

Light Spring
1. Jacket: Ivory and Camel
2. Jacket: Camel
3. Dress: Ivory and Camel
4. Skirt: Camel
5. Skirt: Ivory and Camel
6. Skirt: Camel and Ivory Weave
7. Trousers: Camel
8. Blouse: Ivory and Camel
9. Blouse: Ivory and Clear Aqua
10. Blouse: Clear Aqua
11. Blouse: Peach and Aqua
12. Sweater/Wrap: Ivory

12 piece co-ordinated wardrobe capsule

2007-06-05T06:27:00.000-07:00

In the UK book 'The Complete Style Guide' by Mary Spillane or in its US equivalent 'Color Me Beautiful Looking Your Best' there is a little section called 'Wardrobe Planning for your season'. Here Mary puts together a standard 12 piece mini co-ordinated wardrobe capsule, but varies the colours for each sub season (she's working with the 12 seasons in the later CMB books, see the book for more details).
The items she has are as follows:
1: Jacket
2: Jacket
3: Dress
4: Skirt
5: Skirt
6: Skirt
7: Trousers
8: Blouse
9: Blouse
10: Blouse
11: Blouse
12: Sweater or swing wrap

If we allow substitution of extra pants for 2 of the skirts, my plan matches hers if I add an extra toning sweater or cardigan wrap. I don't knit so it'll have to be sewn or purchased.

A couple of MandS Items I liked

2007-06-05T06:19:00.000-07:00

I just loved these two items from Marks and Spencer. The jacket has a neutral background printed with purple, chocolate, light brown and rust, all of which could be used in plains for pants and tops. A great start for a planned wardrobe.
The second thing I liked was the stripe wrap over shirt. It has a bias peplum and the wrap is secured with 3 shirt buttons, whilst the sash ties on top. Pretty and practical, and gives me an idea for my stripe shirting fabric.

Here's the first complete outfit

2007-06-03T14:57:00.001-07:00

Quite a bohemian look in outfit 1, with the bolero jacket, cowl neck tunic top and khaki elastic waist pants.
I've added a khaki bead necklace I threaded myself to tie the pants to the other items, and I think it works quite well.
Not pictured Minorcan traditional sandals which match the jacket.

New Look 6364 Bolero Jacket

2007-06-03T13:16:00.000-07:00

The Bolero Jacket is finished. Its a dark Salmon pink, almost rust coloured and has matching trousers not yet completed.

As you can see the original has short sleeves. I went through my other patterns comparing sleeve caps until I found one which matches almost perfectly. I cropped it to 3/4 length and used it in the jacket.

New Look 6364 Bolero Jacket Review

Wardrobe Contest Plan Storyboard

2007-06-02T12:21:00.000-07:00

I suspect I don't have a new career in fashion drawing, but its good enough to show you what I plan to do.

Latest Wardrobe Contest plan

2007-06-02T00:36:00.000-07:00

My latest thoughts on the Wardrobe Contest are that I am going to sew the option
* 4 tops, 4 bottoms, 1 dress, 2 jackets

I will have a go at drawing this out and post a picture for everyone to see.
In this version the dress just needs to look OK with both jackets to meet the rules?

Simplicty 7187 Pants

2007-05-31T13:50:00.000-07:00

These elastic waist pants are made from Simplicity 7187 and OOP from 1996.
I straightened the leg from the knee. I sewed a Medium with a back crotch alteration and this is loose on me. Great for PJ pants, but maybe a little too casual for daywear.

Dark coral pants and cropped jacket

2007-05-30T14:52:00.000-07:00

The current project is a pair of drapey wide leg pants in dark coral, and a little lined bolero jacket made from the leftovers.
I have never made a cropped jacket before, I hope it will be OK. I have seen lots of them around all worn with longer shirts, so we will have to see.
Photos coming as soon as its worth seeing!

The old NL6054 wide leg pants

2007-05-25T16:07:00.000-07:00

These are pants I made for the mini Wardrobe competition on PR last summer and which I am wearing again this year.
As you can see they have very wide drapey leg which flow over a lot of the problems, but they still have some pull lines across the tummy area.

6350 pants fitting problems

2007-05-25T13:32:00.000-07:00

OK so usually I wear wide leg pants that have a waist facing, side zip and flow from the highish hip down. I include a very full butt alteration (extension of the back crotch curve by 2 or more inches) and they are OK. I decided I fancied some narrower leg pants and cut out these terracotta ones with a nice crotch extension for the butt.
The butt fits not too bad, but as you can see the front crotch is truly terrible and there are pulls on my full front thighs and full back calves.
I do have 'Pant for Anybody' but I can't quite find my problem in there.
I would appreciate the expertise of the clever fitting people out there and for the interests of research only have included these horrific front, back and side pictures.
Click on the picture to get it in full size.

New Look 6350

2007-05-25T12:34:00.000-07:00

I am currently making the pants from New Look 6350. As usual I have cut the back crotch deeper and tapered back into the knee line. I am using a 'dirt red' cotton twill which sews and presses nicely.
I will post a photo when they are done.

PR Wardrobe Contest garment combos allowed

2007-05-20T08:21:00.001-07:00

The PR Wardrobe Contest allows the following garment combos

6 tops, 4 bottoms, 1 jacket
5 tops, 4 bottoms, 2 jackets
5 tops, 4 bottoms, 1 dress, 1 jacket
4 tops, 4 bottoms, 1 dress, 2 jackets
6 tops, 3 bottoms, 1 jacket, 1 dress if all tops can be worn over the dress
4 tops, 1 dress that's a tunic top (can be worn over all bottoms), 4 bottoms, 1 dress, 1 jacket
5 tops, 3 bottoms, 2 dresses, 1 jacket
4 tops, 3 bottoms, 2 dresses, 2 jackets
4 tops, 3 bottoms, 3 dresses, 1 jacket
3 tops, 3 bottoms, 3 dresses, 2 jackets

1 garment can be knit.
Vest defined by function (top or jacket depending on how it's worn)

And I must admit that the option

5 tops, 4 bottoms, 2 jackets

is very attractive to me, as I can make the coral/light khaki jacket, and a khaki jacket as well.
I want to keep the max number of bottoms as I can't really buy those.

Cowl neck top completed

2007-05-19T14:39:00.001-07:00

The cowl neck top is finished. I think this will be a good wash 'n' wear garment as its tough to wrinkle.
We'll have to see how it is in real life though, say under a jacket.
I have enough of this fabric left to make another top, say a classic blouse like Butterick 4457. I think the fact that the style is very different would make it OK and not too samey.

Butterick Cowl Neck Top

2007-05-19T05:21:00.000-07:00

The next top I have just started is Butterick 3131. I am making this with 3/4 sleeves in an eye popping bright coral (almost red).

Further thoughts

2007-05-19T02:17:00.000-07:00

I am going to have to pick up my speed somewhat as there are 9 garments left (I've only made two) and only until July 31st to do them - ie 10 weeks.
One of the items I have done - a pair of elastic waist pants in khaki is not exactly thrilling and may be replaced, especially if I can get some dark coral fabric for bottoms too.
I think on reflection ( and with feedback on PR) that the long jacket is ott for the summer and I'm going to go for the shorter one (ie the style in red) from Simplicity 4971 (see pic).

Jacket Pattern

2007-05-15T14:38:00.000-07:00

I want to use Simplicity 4427 for the jacket for the Summer Wardrobe Competition. Its short coat length and practical to throw on.

Tidying up

2007-05-13T23:58:00.000-07:00

Last night I decided to tidy up around my sewing area.
To the right of the sewing machine, I have a plain child's toy box under the window with cushions on it as a window seat and I keep the Wardrobe Competition fabrics in there.
I moved out the leftovers from the Timmel teal and brown Woodland Walk SWAP and put the khaki and coral in there instead. I still need to spend some time putting the pattern pieces back in the right envelopes and putting away the patterns I am not going to use this time but the area feels less cluttered already so I am pleased about that.

Final fabric choices

2007-05-13T13:36:00.000-07:00

OK, had a long hard look and decided.....

to drop the khaki stripe, the dark khaki pants/skirt/jacket and the teal/khaki knit for now (maybe a Wardrobe Competition part 2??).

That leaves me with
the light khaki/coral weave for a jacket,
the light khaki pants,
the darker khaki pants (made up already)
and a medium khaki gaberdine skirt and pants

and then tops as follows
cream/coral knit (completed)
coral crinkle top
coral blouse
red coral knit (maybe a twinset?)
lampshade print blouse
cream eyelet blouse
& maybe white/khaki check blouse - this could also go into part 2

On consideration I am happy with all of that as it actually looks like it should all go together.

Extra Fabric options

2007-05-13T11:29:00.000-07:00

Oh no I now have a dilemma. I went to the fabric shop and they had a lovely furnishing fabric with coral and light khaki weave sort of chenille fabric. I bought enough to make a jacket.
I also bought some red coral striped knit which is not an issue. Plus a cute viscose print with lampshades which was just a whim but works quite well.

If I use the new coral and khaki fabric for a jacket all the coral tops, the cream top and the white/khaki check are OK
BUT the khaki stripe and khaki/teal knit then clash as they have other colours in them as well.
URK I am not sure which version of the plan to go with.
I don't have to decide just yet as I can make up the coral top and the khaki bottoms and defer the decision.....

Wardrobe Contest - 1st top completed

2007-05-12T15:41:00.000-07:00

I have already made some elastic waist pants in khaki fabric which has an almost seersucker effect, they need a press and will appear tomorrow.
But here is the photo of the first completed top. I used Jalie 2449 the crossover top. I used the sleeve cap but morphed in to the sleeve taken from another (big 4) pattern as I found the sleeves too tight in the original.

'City Safari' Pattern Review Wardrobe Contest Fabrics

2007-05-07T13:10:00.000-07:00

Here's the fabrics I am planning to use:-
Top row for tops

Khaki stripe
white with khaki check
Khaki/teal knit
cream eyelet

bottom row

elastic waist pants
main fabric for jacket/skirt/pants

Second photo, top row

eyelet again
coral for blouse
coral/cream knit
coral for top

bottom row

main fabric for jacket/skirt/pants
light khaki for second pair pants

My PR Wardrobe Contest 2007 Plan as at 5 May 2007

2007-05-05T11:55:00.000-07:00

For the Pattern Review Wardrobe Contest 2007 competition I am planning a 'City Safari' wardrobe in Khaki and Coral. I think the green/brown/grey of the khaki will set off the richness of the coral well

Plans so far:-

Jacket in khaki twill
Straight leg pants in khaki twill
Skirt in khaki twill
Wide leg pants in lighter khaki fabric
Cropped pants/culottes in crinkle khaki
Knit tops in coral/cream print and khaki/teal print fabrics
short sleeve top in white/khaki check
long sleeved blouse in coral fabric and cream eyelet
simple top in coral crinkle and khaki stripe fabrics

Above lists 7 tops not 6, as I may find I am short of fabric for some of them. I still need to measure out the khaki twill and see if there is enough for the jacket, pants and skirt (I am a little doubtful).

Pattern Review Wardrobe Contest May 1st to July 31st 2007

2007-05-05T11:51:00.000-07:00

Wardrobe Competition contest 2007
Interval: May 1st to July 31st (13 weeks) (3 months)
Wardrobe Competition Rules Managed By: AnneM

You will be sewing up a wardrobe with interchangeable garments.
Rules:
1) Sew 11 items per requirements below
2) All tops must go with all bottoms
3) Jacket must go with all outfits
4) Voting will be done on the wardrobe as one entity, not on individual garments.

Items to be made:
6 tops
4 bottoms
1 jacket

Dress options - do one of the following instead:

1 dress, 5 tops, 4 bottoms, 1 jacket
2 dresses, 5 tops, 3 bottoms, 1 jacket
3 dresses, 4 tops, 3 bottoms, 1 jacket

Prizes: There will be two winners based on the votes.
First Prize: $300 gift certificate from Textile Studio Patterns and Fabrics
Second Prize: $200 gift certificate from Textile Studio Patterns and Fabric.