For some sewers, completing a jacket is a signifying moment. Combining both hand and machine sewing, a jacket takes at least an intermediate understanding of garment construction, so finishing one says, “I have arrived as a stitcher.” For me, what proclaims I have made it as a seamstress is sewing an entire outfit, including the the bra and undies. Just like a jacket, sewing both outer and under garments is evidence that I am not only a hobbyist, but a somewhat skilled one. So before I begin Pauline’s Ninot jacket using that amazing antique chenille brocade I won on Ebay, I have another project on the docket. One of the garments on my to-do list this year was a maxi skirt. I had a pattern picked out, but then Sewaholic released the Gabriola skirt. Total game changer. I’m not one to alter a schedule – if anything, it gives me major anxiety – but I had to knock my initial plan and replace it with Tasia’s maxi. And I’m not just making the skirt either, I’m coordinating the entire ensemble by constructing a blouse from fabric the wonderful Rachel gifted me, a bra and a pair of undies. Did I tell you I’m back into bra making after a short hiatus? I’ll save that for another day and another post.
And Natasha, I know what you’re going to say. I haven’t made the whole outfit if I didn’t make the shoes, right? For cripe’s sake… throw a dog a bone!