Real Life: Live & Unscripted

Butterick 5650...A Review (again)

You can see my first review HERE

 Pattern Description: Very loose-fitting flared skirt and tapered pants. B, C, D: Side seam pockets.

Pattern Sizing: 14-20


Did it look like the photo/drawing on the pattern envelope once you were done sewing with it?
Yes

Were the instructions easy to follow? I didn't use the instructions

What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern? It was EASY.


Fabric Used: Stretch Cotton Sateen


Pattern alterations or any design changes you made: I made it longer, made the waistband wider, added belt loops and made a sash.

Would you sew it again? Would you recommend it to others? I am def going to make this one again. I highly recommend it.

Conclusion: Great pattern!

Here are some additional pictures lol

McCalls 6752...A Review

McCall's 6752

Pattern Description: Pullover tops and dresses have neckline variations, and elasticized (seamed) waist. A: lower left side gathers and exposed zipper. A and B: loose-fitting . C: elasticized side seams on lower section. C and D: very loose-fitting, gathered (bias front) bodice. B and D: semi-fitted skirt. Stitched hem A, C and sleeves B. Narrow hem back neckline A, B and neckline/armholes C and D.

I made view B 

Pattern Sizing: 6-14


Did it look like the photo/drawing on the pattern envelope once you were done sewing with it?
Yes pretty close lol

Were the instructions easy to follow? I never looked at them lol.

What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern? I loved how simple this dress was to construct.


Fabric Used: Jersey from spandex house.


Pattern alterations or any design changes you made: I made the sleeves shorter because I didn't have enough fabric lol

I also made it about 4 inches longer. This dress is short. I needed mine to be a TAD bit longer.  
Would you sew it again? Would you recommend it to others? I need like 3 more of these lol. I love them. Easy to dress up or down.

Conclusion: Great pattern. Very good for beginners.

Here are some additional pictures.

McCall's 6026...A Review

McCall's 6026 (OOP)

I was inspired by THIS DRESS and could not WAIT until I got a chance to make one for myself.

Pattern Description: Misses'/Miss Petite Dresses And Belt

Pattern Sizing: 4-18

I didn't want this to be clingy on me. I normally cut the 14 but I made the 18 in this one.


Did it look like the photo/drawing on the pattern envelope once you were done sewing with it?

Not really lol. I modified mine slightly.
Were the instructions easy to follow? I glanced over them. They are pretty straight forward.

What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern? I knew the look that I was going for and this fit the bill perfectly.


Fabric Used: Rayon Jersey


Pattern alterations or any design changes you made: I actually lengthened it by 23 inches lol.

Would you sew it again? Would you recommend it to others? I really want 30 more of these dresses. It's SUPER comfortable and it went together very quickly. No thought required on my part lol.

Conclusion: Great dress, very stylish and easy to wear.

Here are some additional pictures:

McCall's 6742...A Review

McCall's 6742

Pattern Description: Pullover dress has collar, semi-fitted bodice, lower skirt cut on crosswise grain, shaped hemline (wrong side shows), sleeve bands, invisible back zipper and narrow hem. Bias slip has shoulder straps, neckline and armhole binding and very narrow hem.

Pattern Sizing: 8-16


Did it look like the photo/drawing on the pattern envelope once you were done sewing with it?

YES!
Were the instructions easy to follow? This pattern is very well drafted and the instructions are very easy to follow.

What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern? I am in love with this style dress.


Fabric Used: Linen


Pattern alterations or any design changes you made: None.

Would you sew it again? Would you recommend it to others? I doubt if I will sew this one again but I highly recommend it.

This pattern calls for a center back zipper. I don't really like that. I didn't realize it until it was time to put the zipper in. IF I were to make this again, I would add a side zip instead of center back.  
Conclusion: Great pattern and totally on trend right now.

Additional pictures:

Simplicity 2692...A Review

Simplicity 2692

Pattern Description: Misses Dress or Gown.

Pattern Sizing: 12-20


Did it look like the photo/drawing on the pattern envelope once you were done sewing with it?

YES!
Were the instructions easy to follow? I glanced over them for the sake of this review. They are pretty straight foward.

What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern? I loved the classic style of the one shoulder dress.


Fabric Used: Poly satin stretch twill from Fabric Mart


Pattern alterations or any design changes you made: I added between 200-300 swarovski crystals by hand to the mid-driff section (front only)

Would you sew it again? Would you recommend it to others? I doubt if I make this one again for myself but I highly recommed it if you like this style dress.

Conclusion: Great pattern. It was perfect for the look I was going for.

Here are some additional pictures:

I wore this to a red carpet event so it was PERFECT lol.

McCalls 6654 & Vogue 8815...A Review

I LOVE fashion blogs and reading them all the time surely influences some of the things I make.

Back in February I saw this post : http://www.wendyslookbook.com/2013/02/pop-of-color-neon-peplum-givenchy-shark-tooth/ and INSTANTLY pinned this look. I fell in LOVE with that neon!

(source)

I mean come on. I LOVE this lady. This is actually the second time I've been inspired by her. You can check out the first time here: http://adrienneslittleworld.typepad.com/a_glimpse_of_me_a_peek_in/2012/03/mccalls-5591a-pattern-review.html

Ok let's get on with it! LOL

My yellow purse matches EVERYTHING lol.

The top is Vogue 8815

Pattern Description: Fitted top has raised waist/hemline variations and narrow hem. A and B: back zipper. C: pullover, wrong side shows (back hemline), back neck slit with hook/eye closing. B and C: stitched hems on sleeves. Purchase bias tape to finish necklines and armholes A.

I made view B

 
Pattern Sizing: 8-16


Did it look like the photo/drawing on the pattern envelope once you were done sewing with it?

Kinda lol
Were the instructions easy to follow? I've made this top so many times now I don't have to read the directions, but they are clear and easy to understand/follow.

What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern? I am in love with all things peplum and if I don't stop soon, I will have a closet full of peplum tops.


Fabric Used: Stretch cotton sateen.


Pattern alterations or any design changes you made: I wanted a double peplum so I cut the first peplum at regular length then lengthened the next peplum by 3 inches.

My fabric has so much stretch in it that I didn't need to add a zipper. On the neckline instead of using bias tape as the pattern suggests, I used FOE (fold over elastic) so it would stretch over my head with no problem.
Would you sew it again? Would you recommend it to others? I alrady have this cut out in navy blue ready to sew up lol. I HIGHLY recommend this pattern lol.

Conclusion:SUPERB pattern. If you haven't picked this one up yet, grab it.

McCall's 6654

Pattern Description: Semi-fitted or loose-fitting skirts have elasticized waistband (waist down), and narrow hem.

Pattern Sizing: 6-14


Did it look like the photo/drawing on the pattern envelope once you were done sewing with it?

YES!
Were the instructions easy to follow? You can sew this with your eyes closed lol.

What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern? I love how simple this is lol.


Fabric Used: Ponte Knit from Metro Textiles


Pattern alterations or any design changes you made: None

Would you sew it again? Would you recommend it to others? I already have this cut out in a black and white stripe. YES I will make this time and time again. I highly recommend it to everyone.

Conclusion: This is such a great pattern. When I was in NY I saw this and HAD to have it. I hate to match stripes but if I'm going to match them, this will be the best way to do it. On something super simple. Let the fabric do the talking lol.

Here are a couple more pictures so you can see the stripes lol. YES I'm proud even though it was only two seams lol

Photogrid is like my favorite thing ever lol.

Alright that's it guys!!! See ya SUPER soon lol

McCall's 5330 & Vogue 8422...A Review

What?!?! I'm posting a review~? lol

Man ya'll I have been BUSY. Like FORREAL.

Those of you that have been following my blog for a while know I NEVER wanted to sew for anyone other than myself lol. It took FOREVER for me to make something for the kids but my business is doing SO well. I stay busy.

I have a board full of clients and a bunch of pending orders. I never thought I would have so much fun doing what I do. I was obedient to what God told me to do and not only have I been blessed but I've been a blessing to others as well.

Now even though I'm sewing a LOT for other people, I STILL sew for myself lol. I'll have to do another post on all of that but trust me lol. I put work (and it's hard to even call it work because I truly love it) away and sew for myself lol.

I made this back in March and I'm just now getting a chance to wear it. It warmed up SUPER quick and it has been too warm to wear this but NOW!? Man why is it MAY and 50!?!? in ALABAMA lol

These are two very OOP patterns:

McCall's 5330

and Vogue 8422

I LOVE this top and this skirt. LOVE LOVE LOVE. They were both very, very easy.

I have had this skirt in my stash for YEARS. I don't know what took me so long to make this. I absolutely LOVE it. It was very easy to make and I did it in one sitting.

The wrap top I have also had a very long time. I love it. I love wrap anything. It's super flattering on just about every shape.

Excuse the wrinkles I took this after wearing it all day.

I almost wore leopard shoes but decided not to. I went with these silver and black beauties I've had for a while. I promise my yellow purse goes with EVERYTHING. It's my favorite thing right now. It's like having a little sunshine in my hand lol

Alright that's it. I'll TRY to do more updates this week lol.

I have a bunch more to review. High-low dresses, peplum shirts, pencil skirts and a sunshine yellow wrap dress lol. OH MY lol

Y'all have a great day!
Toodles!

Vogue 8723...A Review

 It's APRIL Y'ALL!!! How about a review!?!? This will be a busy week on this here blog (YES I SAID THIS HERE LOL) so get ready! LOL

 

 

Vogue 8723

 

Pattern Description: MISSES' DRESS: A, B: Lined, fitted bodice and side seam pockets. A, B, C, D cup sizes

Pattern Sizing:  8-16


Did it look like the photo/drawing on the pattern envelope once you were done sewing with it? yes

YES!
Were the instructions easy to follow? I glanced over them but didn't use them.

What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern? I loved the square neckline of this dress.


Fabric Used: Embossed Jaquard


Pattern alterations or any design changes you made: I didn't add the pockets.

Would you sew it again? Would you recommend it to others? If you like this style dress I highly recommend it. It was an easy sew.

Conclusion: Great dress to showcase some gorgeous fabric.

Here are some additional pictures:

Here is a close up of the fabric:

And the invisible zipper & hook & eye

 

Vogue 8870...A Review

Hey guys I was able to go to church yesterday and this is what I wore. I'm feeling a LOT better but still not 100%. I can drive now so woohoo lol. Too bad much of today will be spent in bed lol

                                                                    Vogue 8870

Pattern Description: Pullover dress has loose-fitting, blouson bodice variations, elasticized (seamed) waist, side pockets and narrow hem. Wrong side shows on back hemline. A: mock wrap, front pleated bodice, and two-piece sleeves. Note: no provisions provided for above waist adjustment. B: elasticized upper back.

I made view A top with view B bottom.

 
Pattern Sizing: XS-Medium

I made the Medium and it's still big on me.

Did it look like the photo/drawing on the pattern envelope once you were done sewing with it?

YES!
Were the instructions easy to follow? I glanced over them. Pretty standard.

What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern? I loved the style of this dress.


Fabric Used: Mystery fabric from my stash. Some type of poly blend.


Pattern alterations or any design changes you made: None

Would you sew it again? Would you recommend it to others? I will make this again. This is a great pattern and I highly recommend it.

Conclusion: Great easy pattern. Pick it up if you like this style dress.

I forgot to take a close up of my shoes but you can find them HERE Ivanka Trump Halley

Butterick 5850...A Review

Butterick 5850

 

Pattern Description: Dress has fitted, lined bodice variations, gathered skirt and single layer tie ends (wrong side will show) with narrow hem, and side zipper. B: semi-fitted skirt. A,B: mock wrap, front bodice extends into pleated back neckline. C: front shoulder pleats.

I made view A , added sleeve C and shortened the sleeve.  
Pattern Sizing: 8-16 I cut the 12 and could have gone down to the 10. It's a little big on me


Did it look like the photo/drawing on the pattern envelope once you were done sewing with it?

YES!
Were the instructions easy to follow? I only glanced over the directions but they seem very clear.

What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern? I love the retro style of the pattern.


Fabric Used: Taffeta


Pattern alterations or any design changes you made: I added/shortened a sleeve. Instead of wearing the neckline like it's shown in the picture, I folded mine outward and tacked it at the waist.

Would you sew it again? Would you recommend it to others? I don't think I will make this one again but if you like this style dress, go for it.

Conclusion: Great pattern if you like this style.

Here is a picture of the pleated neckline:

The gathers on the side tie:The gathers around the skirt:

Burda 7187...A Review

Diane Von Furstenberg Maxi Wrap Dress Sale Price $405.00

I fell in LOVE with this DVF dress when I saw someone in blogland wearing it a month of so back (sorry can't remember who it was) and I had to have one.

I initially saw this Burda pattern after working on a Burda dress for one of my clients. I have IGNORED these patterns but not anymore. I LOVE my dress. I actually have a print that is very similar to the DVF dress but I wanted black and white for this one. I WILL Make this again in the other print...and possibly a couple of solids lol.

Burda 7187

The wind was MAD disrespectful when I took this. Soon as Kayla snapped this pic, the bottom fell out lol.

Pattern Description: Maxi Wrap Dress

Pattern Sizing: 10-20 I cut the 14


Did it look like the photo/drawing on the pattern envelope once you were done sewing with it?

YES!
Were the instructions easy to follow? I read over the instructions once just to make sure there wasn't anything tricky about it and it wasn't. Very easy, very straight forward, unlike the instructions in the Burda Magazine.

What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern? I loved the style of this dress. It is indeed a classic.


Fabric Used: Jersey


Pattern alterations or any design changes you made: I only shortened the sleeves.

Would you sew it again? Would you recommend it to others? YESSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSS I plan on making this one a few more times. I really love it.

Conclusion: This is such a great pattern. VERY well drafted. Pick this one up if you like this style. It's a winner!

Bow ties for my guys!

I made these for my guys to wear to church on Sunday. Everyone loved them lol. I'm going to make them for my shop also. This is so much fun.

I used a bow tie that Tony already had and made a pattern from that and got started lol.

If you would like to purchase one, be sure to subscribe to my  mailing list and make sure we are friends on my Facebook page so you don't miss any announcements :)

I'm REALLY looking into Men's wear. Like R E A L L Y. I'm excited about it and so is Tony lol

Alright that's all for me! Have a great one!

Vogue 8808...A Review

I saw this dress in one of my magazines and of course fell in love lol

Tie Neck Cashmere Dress $899 on sale for $299.25

Vogue 8808

Pattern Description: Lined dress (close-fitting through bust) has collar, cut-in armholes, princess seams, back zipper and narrow hem.

Pattern Sizing: 6-14


Did it look like the photo/drawing on the pattern envelope once you were done sewing with it?
Yes

Were the instructions easy to follow?I didn't follow them lol

What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern? This pattern runs HUGE. Now I hardly EVER have to make any adjustments to my patterns. EVERY now and then. I don't know if that's a good thing or what but I can take it out of the envelope and just sew it.

This dress, was NOT that way. I NORMALLY cut a size 12 or 14 based on the finished measurements on the pattern piece. With this I cut the 12 and it was HUGE. Massive. The armscye is super low on this dress to begin with but it was WELL below my bra strap when I got to a point where I could try it on.

I ended up taking it all back apart and cutting it down to the size 8

Fabric Used: Knit

Pattern alterations or any design changes you made: I cut the back on the fold and did not insert a zipper. With my fabric choice there was no need to IMO. To get the look of my inspiration dress I didn't use the collar piece that came with the pattern. Instead I measured the length  that I wanted for my tie and folded it in half. I basted it down then attached it to the neckline of the dress and sewed it to the neckline.

Would you sew it again? Would you recommend it to others? I probably WILL make this one again in the longer length in the spring.

Conclusion: I love this pattern. It went together well after I got the sizing corrected.

This is how I wore it:

I opted for my sequin jacket and some teal booties I got from Just Fab to add a pop of color.

Here is a better pic of the booties. Let me tell you how much I LOVE these!!! I LOVE how they fit my ankle. I normally don't even wear booties because I don't like how they look if they don't fit my ankle well. These are FAB. Seriously lol. It was my first purchase from Just Fab but def not my last.

Simplicity 2053...A Review

First review of 2013!!

I saw this dress online a while back and fell in LOVE. I mean its SEQUIN lol

Donna Karan Sequined One-Shoulder Gown $2995.00

I loved the style of it and knew it would look great on me.

Simplicity 2053

I wore this the Friday after Christmas to a formal event.

Pattern Description: Misses' day to evening dresses in two lengths with bodice and sleeve variations

Pattern Sizing: 14-22


Did it look like the photo/drawing on the pattern envelope once you were done sewing with it?

YES!
Were the instructions easy to follow? The directions were very easy. I only glanced at them once.

What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern? I loved this this pattern really resembled the inspiration dress.


Fabric Used: I used a pleated/crinkle coated knit. That's the only way I can describe it.


Pattern alterations or any design changes you made: I didn't add a zipper since there was so much stretch in my fabric.

Would you sew it again? Would you recommend it to others? I doubt if I make it again but I do recommend it if you like this style.

Conclusion: This was a very straight forward pattern. Well drafted, no issues.  I love that it gave me lines similar to the inspiration dress.