S2558 • The Mmmrrrow! Jacket

The CAbi FW2010 collection inspires me again!

When I tried on this CAbi Lola shrug ($138) at this fall's CAbi party, I remember sighing a little. It felt like a warm hug, and who couldn't use more of THAT on cold winter nights? So I set out to make one of my own. I looked all over creation for the exact, plushy fabric that Carol Anderson used, but couldn't locate it. So I went for the next best thing: brown and black spotted leopard. I think this little number's going to look great with black AND brown, which will give it maximum versatility in my wardrobe.


Pattern Description: Misses Jacket with Front Variations.

Pattern Sizing: 4-20. Mine was a straight 14.
 

Did it look like the photo/drawing on the pattern envelope once you were done sewing with it? With modifications, it looks like a longer version of the CAbi Lola shrug, which is what I was going for!
 
Were the instructions easy to follow? Yep. I find it curious that, with wool as a fabric option, the pattern designers didn't include lining instructions and pattern pieces. It didn't deter me from adding the lining anyway.

What did you like/dislike about the pattern? I was too eager to make this coat, so I didn't pattern fit, which was a mistake all 'round. This unstructured coat pattern is SO boxy and has too much ease. Next time I make it, I'll take off about 3" of ease. I can't wear it closed as it gapes and hangs funny, which is kind of a bummer.

Fabric Used: Low pile faux fur from Fabric Depot.

Pattern alterations or any design changes you made: I added a hot pink lining. What girlie girl doesn't love that? I also used hooks for closures as they're hidden in the fabric. Compared to the notch collar of the CAbi design, mine has a shawl collar.

Would you sew it again? Would you recommend it to others? I would! Just check that ease or you'll be swimming in this jacket.

Conclusion: It's (nearly) exactly what I wanted and cost less than 1/3 of the Lola shrug. Thanks for the great inspiration, Carol Anderson!

M6069 | The Mullet Dress

Get it?

You know! "Business in the front, party in the rear".  :)

The V-neck is surprisingly bra-friendly!

Pattern Description: MISSES' DRESSES AND SASH: Pullover, above mid-knee, semi-fitted straight dresses A, B, C have elastic waist casing, stitched hem and bodice variations; dress A is sleeveless; dress B has three-quarter sleeves; dress C is sleeveless with self sash; dresses A, B, C have optional back strap; optional purchased belt.

Pattern Sizing: A5(6-8-10-12-14), EE(14-16-18-20). Mine was a 14 top, 20-ish bottom

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

Were the instructions easy to follow? They're SOOOO easy! This dress *maybe* took me three hours to make including pattern fitting and cutting.

What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern? It's a quick project that was done 75% on my serger. The only dislike is that the particular neckline can be tricky to keep on your shoulders. While perusing JoAnn, I ran across some nifty "Strap Tamers" that you pin at your shoulder seam and it keeps your bra straps hidden. You can leave them in the garment and launder them without worry. They're great little gadgets for a boatneck top, too. Here's a picture of the product and you can buy them here.

Fabric Used: Mid-weight polyester jersey from JoAnn. I like that the pattern includes both black and brown so I can pick different shoes and accessories, depending on my mood.

Pattern alterations or any design changes you made: 

• For maximum versatility, I made this a reversible dress, combining the square neckline of View C with the cowl draped back of view B. I've worn it both ways. 
• I passed on the elastic casing and instead added clear swimsuit elastic to the waistline before I sewed up the sides. (sewed sleeves in flat)
• I added 3" from hip to knee. (They aren't kidding when they say the dress is "close fitting".)
• 1" FBA
• Added 5" to the length (not all in one place, but proportionally). It's SHORT!

Would you sew it again? Would you recommend it to others? This is the second time I've made this dress. The first was a sleeveless LBD that also had the square/cowl neckline options. It's a great dressy summer travel dress!

Conclusion: This is one awesome dress! I've already worn it at a black tie event as well as to work. It's been a versatile addition to my winter wardrobe!