Saturday, July 17, 2010

Off to a Rewarding Start!

Navy Ensemble #1

Burda 7489 is a pattern for a woman's sleeveless top with side tie bow, narrow leg pants with inverted pleats at waist, and a short sleeve jacket.  I made the sleeveless top and the pants, view B & C.  The top is made with a cotton lawn print and the pants are a very dark navy linen/rayon blend.  Here is the amazing news.  Neither pattern needed any alterations.  I sewed up the size 10 on both.  The pants are a departure from my normal style, but I admit I love the look and they are easy to wear.  Here is the completed outfit.
 

The blouse is very easy to construct.  The neckline and armholes are finished with facings.  The edges were so short before needing to turn a corner that I didn't feel like I could understitch.  That is one thing I am not as happy with in the design of this top, but it is minor and with this print it is hardly noticeable where the facing peeks out a bit. The hardest part is how cumbersome the bow hem is because it is so wide.  The top also requires 3 yards of fabric if you cut the bow on the bias as the pattern recommends. I think you could sew this without it being cut on the bias and still have good results.  Here are a couple of close-ups.
 

The pants are well drafted.  I am truly amazed they fit me so perfectly.  I love how wide the waist band is.  It will be a nice focal point with tucked in tops.  The inverted pleats are also a stylish detail.  The pooling at the ankles gives you plenty of room when you sit down.  The pants do not pull across the top of your legs even though the ankle is so snug.

This outfit took me a bit longer than I anticipated, though I wouldn't blame that on difficulty.  According to Burda, an average sewer can sew this up, and I would agree.  The instructions were easy to follow.  Yay! Two items down and eight to go!

20 comments:

stitchywitch said...

Oh wow - I don't usually like that style of pants, but they look fantastic on you! I especially like them with those shoes... it's a great start to your wardrobe!

Anonymous said...

Absolutely wonderful! This pattern is similar to one you've made previously that has a different neckline. Could you just transfer the bow from that one?

Also, the pictures are somewhat jarring because you look magnificent in cool colors, yet the environment you're standing in is done in warm colors. I thought you were supposed to decorate in your colors, also.

Lori said...

Very pretty top and pants. The bow really dresses up the top and entire outfit.

Karin van D. said...

This outfit looks wonderful on you. I didn't think I'd like these pants, but you look very elegant in them, pretty!

alethia said...

The outfit looks great!

Erica B. said...

What a great outfit! I love those pants and they look great on you!

Shari said...

Great outfit! The pants fit so well and are very flattering on you!

Karyn said...

So cute on you! I love this outfit on you!

~Sherry~ said...

What great pants - I really like the drape at the ankles. I have a similar cut pair and they pull when you sit down in them as you describe! Really nice elegant outfit on you!

Julia said...

You look fantastic in this really neat outfit!!!

Caroline said...

Oh, I do like the bow on the blouse. The pants are such a neat shape. I too am a fan of wide waistbands ... so much more comfy... Looking forward to seeing more of your planned things.

sewing spots said...

Great outfit! Good luck on your plan.

Linda said...

Very cute top and pants.

Audrey said...

The top and pants look great on you. I have this pattern. I was concerned the top's "V" would be too low, but yours looks fine. I also like this style of pants, having made the Burda magazine version earlier this spring.

Eugenia said...

Fab outfit. Those pants look great and that gorgeous top is just right to go with them. Both garments look beautifully made.

Dharma said...

The blouse looks lovely. Look forward to seeing the rest of your SWAP.

Tasia said...

Ooh - love the top! I especially like the huge dramatic bow, what a nice touch! And while I wouldn't normally like that style of pants, they look quite flattering on you. Two really fun, modern pieces for your wardrobe, well done!

MushyWear said...

Thanks all. I really am happy with this first outfit. I appreciate all your thoughtful comments!

The Slapdash Sewist said...

So adventurous with the pants! I love the huge side bow on the top, it's a fun detail.

Myra said...

Goregous outfit on your and nicely done, I might say. Those shoes are to die for! (can you tell I love shoes!!!)