Cardigan: Old Navy | Top: Maison Jules | Jeans and scarf: Madewell
About six months ago, I could sense a need for a style change in my wardrobe. I was staring at a closet full of clothes daily that didn’t suit my lifestyle and that I didn’t feel good in. I had a rack of vintage and vintage style dresses that weren’t practical for everyday life. I often felt overdressed and a bit silly as well as frustrated trying to get ready for the day. I have a job that is physical and requires lots of lifting and going up ladders. After work, I would run errands and go on walks with my husband only to retire to the couch for the evening before bed. The only time I could really wear 70% of my wardrobe was maybe on the weekend or if I felt like getting dolled up for a walk. Lately I find myself embracing pieces that make sense for me and my life. I did a big closet purge and still have a ways to go before I’m totally happy with my wardrobe but I’m on my way. Now, don’t get me wrong- I still LOVE my fifties dresses but I’m keeping my collection down to an amount I’ll actually wear to make room for everyday pieces.
This change has made me look at my sewing differently as well. I’ve been trying to plan out some clothes I want to make this year and I’m thinking beyond just vintage style dresses for spring and summer. I’m looking at my wardrobe as a whole and trying to fill in the missing pieces. For instance, I find myself constantly reaching for jeans to wear with my blouses but I keep thinking that a solid color skirt would be a nice option. I’m also keeping in mind colors so that it’s easy to mix things up. I thought I would share some of the patterns I’ve had my eye on recently. If you’ve made any of these, please let me know!
Seamwork Leonora
As I said, a good basic skirt would be so useful for me. I’ve been wanting a button front skirt like this and denim would go with everything! I’ve had my eye on this pattern for a while and I think I will be making it soon.
Nina Lee Bloomsbury Blouse
How cute is this blouse? I adore the ruffles and it even has buttons down the back. It’d be a nice comfortable piece in a lightweight cotton for spring and summer. I love it in gingham. I would definitely pair it with jeans, skirts or shorts!
Simplicity 8454 Ruffled Blouse
Another blouse that I think would be very wearable. I could definitely see myself wearing this at work, especially the short sleeve B version.
Named Reeta Shirt Dress
This dress looks so easy to wear. I think I would feel comfortable and put together in this in the warmer months.
Pauline Alice Lliria Dress
This dress! It has a vintage charm to it and the closure is so beautiful. Everything I have picked so far has buttons. I guess I’ll be getting a lot of practice making buttonholes.
Culottes
I don’t know if this is the pattern I would use but I have been wanting a pair of culottes since the summer! I’m not sure how they would look on me. I may want to try a pair on before committing to make some.
That’s all I have for now. I have some knits I already purchased so I’ll need to plan out some way to use those. What are you planning on sewing this year?
mypoeticmemory.wordpress.com 