Sew summery

 I made Gracie the jersey knit dress from the cover of the latest Ottobre (3/2013 - design # 12). I had picked up this cute seashell print knit from The Fabric Fairy and couldn't wait to use it. It took less than the yard of fabric, so I took the remaining scrap and sewed up a pair of the Jalie 3247 tumble shorts for her to wear underneath. She likes wearing skirts and dresses when she doesn't have to worry about her undies showing. (So do I!)

This dress is a really quick-to-sew project and would be a great showcase for a pretty applique on the front. I thought about adding an applique to this version, but I opted not to because the fabric is so pretty on its own.

Aside from cutting and sewing this outfit last night, I also stitched up a top for me - Butterick 5609, view D. I did an FBA by adding 2 inches of length to the bodice front and gathering it at the side seams so that the seam that joins the upper and lower front met at the right place.

I like that this top is cool without being too revealing. I hate playing "is my bra strap showing" when I wear a sleeveless top. Plus, the keyhole opening at the front is high enough not to be a cleavage hole.

I also recently finished McCall's 6754, a pattern for which I shall make the bold argument that it might be named one of the best patterns of 2013. It's a fantastic design - both a top and a dress. It is amazing in stripes and easy to sew. Plus, it is totally on trend. I'm calling it. Just sayin'

After finishing these projects, I'm trying to decide what to make next...might have to visit Elegant Stitches for a little inspiration!