Later this month I will be attending a new theatre performance at The Blank Theatre. Their latest production is Peter Pan: The Boy Who Hated Mothers. I felt that it would be more than appropriate to A) Wear something new and B) Wear something with a Peter Pan style collar (Get it? Ha!).
I also wanted to keep with my Frugal Fabric Challenge, since I have *plenty* of fabric on hand to work with and I didn’t want to spend anything more after purchasing my new new Lizzy. To get better acquainted with Lizzy, I also wanted to complete a quick and easy garment that would help me flesh out my wardrobe, but be really enjoyable.
This is Simplicity #1693, view B with the contrast collar.
I used some light, combed cotton that was screaming, “Make me into a blouse!” and some remnant cotton eyelet. I chose view B because I thought the sleeve would be more flattering — I have some pretty big biceps and triceps from working out at the gym so I try to avoid tapered cap sleeves when possible. This blouse came together really fast because it’s a simple pull over top… no zippers or button holes required. If I hadn’t added the collar, I would have finished in half the time. What’s not to love?
I marked all my dots with tailor tacks.
Back neck opening detail from the inside.
Finishing the neckline with bias tape.
Finishing the neckline with bias tape.
To make the narrow hem on the sleeves, I used a line of basting stitches to create an even finish.
After stitching the narrow hem on the sleeves, I removed the basting stitches.
Here are sleeves’ narrow hems, up close, nice and even!
Inserting the set-in sleeve with a gathered detail at the top.
Which button shall I choose?
Things I like about Simplicity 1693:
- It’s loose but doesn’t feel like a sack because there are some nicely proportioned bust darts to add just the right amount of shaping.
- I liked having the sleeve options — as I mentioned above, the drapey sleeves felt more comfortable and flattering for my body shape.
- This blouse came together exceptionally fast! Gotta love that. I wonder why the envelope didn’t say “easy ” on it because I would definitely qualify this as a great beginner project.
- No zippers or buttonholes required! There is fairness in this world…
- The collar is super cute. Am I right or am I right?
- Instead of a lining or facings, the collar is finished with bias tape. I really liked this finish because it looks very clean and isn’t bulky in any way.
Things I don’t like about Simplicity 1693:
- Don’t know if I can really think of anything I don’t like with this top… That’s a first!
Here is how Simplicity 1693 looks when finished, both inside and out.
I’m making the Naughty Secretary Skirt by Diana Rupp in a white cotton eyelet to match this blouse. I think the slim, pencil skirt will be a perfect compliment to the loose fit of the blouse, and the eyelet fabrics will tie it all together as well as look really sweet.
Time for more sewing… My new machine is a DREAM! Lots of “oohs” and “aahs” in my sewing studio right now. *grin*
