Hong Kong has suddenly got cooler and the UK is having a heatwave so right now the temperatures are about the same in both places, but I know it can't possibly last until my visit so I have got started on fall sewing.
First up is a knit cotton twinset and pencil skirt from the strangest material I have ever used - none of these pieces are going to set the world alight but they will get a lot of wear both on my trip and beyond, particularly the versatile twin set.
PATTERN DETAILS
1) Knit top - Burda Style 04/2011-122
I left off the neck zipper so it is a bit of a squeeze to get it on. The turtleneck is just cut on so it has a bit of a weird drape to it, but I like this more than I thought I would, especially with the sleeve, it feels very Japanese designer or minimalist Calvin Klein.
2) Cardigan - modified Burda Style 01/2011 - 126
I didn't have enough fabric to make this pattern properly so I used a combination of the knit top pattern above and the front drape and sleeves from this cardigan pattern to make a shorter, narrower version. This was all a bit experimental but I like the end shape which has minimal ease.
3) Pencil skirt
I bought this fabric a few years ago in Melbourne when Vicki took me shopping. It is very unusual, a textured stretch fabric with a slight metallic sheen to it. It looks a bit like lava rock to me although I must admit there is a hint of cowpat to it too! This is a self drafted pattern - just a tube skirt. As the fabric is quite bulky and difficult to hem I just serged the edges, resulting in a scalloped finish and zig zagged a wide piece of elastic for a waistband. 
I really like that skirt material, how interesting!
ReplyDeleteI think you made the right decision - the UK heat wave is already over :-(
Actually I think you will set the world alight with your oh la la skirt - it looks great and the fabric is so unusual I am sure you will get lots of comments. Too bad you bought this fabric so long ago because I live near Melbourne. Have a lovely trip back `home`.
ReplyDelete"none of these pieces are going to set the world alight" - ha! Nonetheless, both super wearable pieces. Enjoy your vacation!
ReplyDeleteFantastic pieces, you will really enjoy them in your wardrobe. Enjoy your trip.
ReplyDeleteAs you said, I'm sure you'll get a lot of wear out of these pieces. Very nice!
ReplyDeleteThe knit top pattern is on my list and the cardigan I made last winter season and it is one of my favorite pieces.
ReplyDeleteI love the way the top looks on you and with the cardigan you will have a reliable set that always looks good.
I like your new outfit a lot! I'd certainlly wear it! I never liked this top from Burda, but you made me see it in a whole new way!
ReplyDeleteDid you just sew the elastic on the top of the scirt and that's it? No stabilizing?
Wonderful easy-to-wear pieces! That skirt fabric is very, very interesting!
ReplyDeleteI like the outfit. That skirt fabric needs a plain top it's so unusual and striking. I've looked at that knit cardigan and felt it was just too much to be flattering. Your version works well and looks great on you.
ReplyDeleteEverything is nice but, wow, that skirt fabric is TDF!
ReplyDeleteI'm glad you made that top. It's on a short list of mine to be made in yellow (mostly because I have yellow thread on my serger). It's cute!
ReplyDeleteWhat an interesting fabric on that skirt! I like the whole look, very mod.
ReplyDeleteThat's so elegant. I'd forgotten about that Burda top! I liked it in the magazine and your version is lovely. The skirt fabric's amazing. Does it feel rough?
ReplyDeleteGosh I'd love to get my hands on the textured fabric. The whole suit is perfect.
ReplyDeleteI like all three pieces very much. I swear that skirt fabric is available at Mood Fabrics in NYC, or at least something that looks a lot like it.
ReplyDeleteThe skirt is really striking, and I like the "plain" pieces you made to go with it. In fact, I find them rather inspiring. I am delighted to see what the Burda short sleeved turtle neck looks like made up. It's perfect as a modern twin set.
ReplyDeleteJust to go "off topic" for a minute. My blog, Making the Seam, was infected with malware and I had to delete it. If you want to find me, you can find me at
http://sewherewegoagain.blogspot.com/
Have fun in the UK. It's already started to cool down- so it will feel just like home, lol!
What a wonderful outfit! I love how you took the elements you liked and made them work for you. I'm sure this outfit will be great to travel in.
ReplyDeleteWhat a great ensemble. I love the skirt, The fabric looks intriguing and precious. It totally makes this skirt.
ReplyDeleteChic and comfortable -- a perfect outfit. As others have stated, the skirt fabric is amazing! Have a wonderful trip!
ReplyDeleteooohhhh lovely ! What an interesting fabric you took for the skirt. This outfit has a perfect look and seems well suited for travelling. This t-shirt pattern is in deed very interesting.
ReplyDeleteI love this outfit! Just found your blog today and I'm loving your style and fabric choices. I'm seeing a lot of patterns with fresh eyes thanks to your makes! Thanks for sharing and keep up the good work.
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