I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again, having basic patterns at the ready is a must for me. But I do like variations of a basic. When Simplicity 1283 came out, I thought it was such a cute variation of the pencil skirt and had lots of styling possibilities. And the color blocking is flattering to most figure types. I actually like the other garments in the pattern and will sew them later with some changes for my age/body type. This time, I paired the skirt with McCalls 2818.
McCalls 2818
I choose the McCalls pattern because 1) its a basic pattern that I have ready to sew and 2) it could be colored blocked to mimic the skirt. I used Kauai Cotton Stretch Sateen (sold out-this same print is available in a cotton faille brocade) for the print and Black Stretch Pique for the contrast. White pique or White/Black Windowpane Linen would also coordinate well with the Black Stretch Pique.
Things I changed about the patterns:
- I went up one size for the skirt because I used a stretch woven fabric (this pattern calls for knits).
- I substituted an exposed zipper instead of an invisible zipper for the skirt and buttons for the top.
- I added a lining to the top.
The top pattern has a boxy fit so I went down a size and added shaping to the side seams and front princess seams. The skirt is a true pencil skirt with RTW ease and a tapered hem line which I love!! You will need to check the finished garment measurements printed on the back of the pattern envelope before selecting your size. Bonus-this skirt pattern comes with a separate lining pattern. You can use the lining pattern to make a basic pencil skirt without the color blocking.
I’m so glad to be back at the sewing machine!
Great looking skirt and top! Glad you are back to sewing and like to see your finished garments. I hope you were okay with the excessive rain that I think you got in your area. That front has made its way to my neck of the woods and we have had flash flooding and rain all week long.
Those two garment look great together, I actually thought it was a dress, and they will work with other garments as well. You look great!
Like Audrey, I thought this was a beautiful dress. Such an awesome design.
This is very beautiful ,like others, I thought it was a dress. I love your thought process of making it and the changes you made. You look wonderful wearing it, great review!
Beautiful!
This looks fantastic on you! Love the print!!!
Absolutely lovely, Roz!!!
Thank you Linda, Audrey, Dorothy, Alethia, Jennifer, Mrs. Smith and Cathy! You are very generous with your comments. Linda, thank you for asking about the weather. I didn't suffer any water damage thank God! You be careful and stay dry. Audrey, you are a lady after my own heart! Yes, the separates will work very well with other garments in my wardrobe. Alethia, I appreciate your comments coming from such an accomplished seamstress!
You can't go wrong with a basic pattern, I love the way you fitted it! I don't know why they make things so boxy!It is so wonderful to see you sewing again, can't wait to see what else you make.
I just discovered your blog and I love it! I enjoyed reading your Burda reviews! This outfit is amazing! I also thought it was a dress at first!
Thank you Becki and Paulina!