Wardrobe Planning with Ann: Crossover Halter and Maxi Skirt

As our lifestyles continue to shift, there is no reason to stop celebrating special moments and dressing for them!  A huge achievement in Ann’s family was her husband’s graduation from dental school.  The graduation ceremony was virtual but the family pulled together and had their own celebration.  And of course, a new outfit helps to add to the happy times!
Congratulations Dr. T! 🙂

Mood Board

When Ann found out that the ceremony would be virtual and the celebration would be at home, a summer party outfit is what I envisioned.  Halter tops with a midriff cutout are trending and worn with a maxi skirt is a casual and chic look.  It will also work on their upcoming trip.  As always, Ann put together a Pinterest mood board for inspiration. (click on the photo above for more inspiration)

Fabric 
It’s late summer and the humidity and heat are relentless so a light, comfortable fabric like Navy/Red, Cream Graphic Print Rayon Lawn (Sold Out), would feel great!

 

Muslin

Like most of us, Ann’s household is busy with 3 kids in school and her job.  Repurposing patterns she is already familiar with is a timesaver plus Ann’s goal is to use patterns that she has in her collection.  The jumpoff point for the halter top is the 2019 Easter dress, Butterick 5455 (OOP).  The skirt is McCalls 7906, Ann’s 2-Piece Summer Outfit, lengthened into a maxi skirt.  Both patterns were already adjusted for fit so only style changes were needed.

Ann wanted just a hint of a midriff cutout.
That’s why we all love sewing-we have the freedom to choose what works for us!

The neckline darts were rotated out, and a horizontal and vertical dart was added for a close fit.

Deciding on the skirt length

Construction
The top was lined with leftover Egyptian Cotton in Bright Red (temporarily out of stock) from Ann’s Sailor Shorts.
The side zipper was installed like the Red Lace Top (a Susan Khalje tip).  (Ann’s Zipper Technique Video)

The skirt was lined to the knees with Rayon Lining in Valentine Red and the hem is hand-rolled.  (Ann’s hand-rolled hem tutorial)

Back View

Ann chose the Blue Shadow buttons for the skirt.

Looks
The two new pieces play nicely with Ann’s other makes!
Red Sailor Shorts
Ivory Crinkle Silk Skirt
Sailor Jeans

Chambray Blouse
Easter Blouse 2020
Color Block T-Shirt

I hope this will get you to look at your existing patterns with fresh eyes! What pattern(s) can you alter for a new look?

And as Ann always says, “I hope you get inspired to create something EXTRAordinary.” 😉
Up next…  A Marfy Challenge Remnant Blouse!