I love separates. And this is probably my first time, if not, then the pattern wasn't very memorable -- that I sewed more than one piece from an outfit/wardrobe type pattern. What I love about this pattern is, the pieces aren't matchy-matchy. They don't necessarily go together, but they definitely work. You get a super cute and sexy backless slip dress, topped with a cropped trench jacket. It feels like you're wearing a great dress and you reach for your favorite jacket on your way out the door.
Utility dressing is a big ass deal this spring. You can't go in any store or look on any retail site without seeing something with trench and cargo details or boiler suits. It's what's currently popping. So, when I saw Mimi's pattern - Simplicity 8890, I knew that I needed it. I'm someone who mostly prefers a jacket to a sweater as a topper, so this is kinda perfect and right up my alley.
For the cropped trench, I found the perfect fabric at Hobby Lobby. It's a Khaki Solid Twill that's 100% cotton. And it sews beautifully. I cut the size 16 and I added an inch to the length.
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It has beautiful trench details like these great epaulets and wonderful edge stitching and top stitching.
I lined the underside of the flap with plaid Burberry-esque fabric.
And since the jacket is unlined, I did a Hong Kong finish.
I foresee lots and lots of wear out of this jacket.
Let's go ahead and get the elephant in the room question out of the way, so we can all move on in peace: I'm not wearing a bra, so no point in asking what kind. Do your own research and find options that work you. Y'all wear me out every single time I post something backless... My fabric is bold, colorful and quite amazing. It's an Orange Abstract Ikat and Floral Stretch Polyester from Mood Fabrics.com. It's basically an ITY knit. The pattern recommends silky type wovens. But I'm always a rebel! Change of fabric type didn't require any changes to the pattern. I made my normal lengthening alteration. I added 3 inches to the hem. The back is my favorite detail. It has adjustable straps. To relieve some of the fullness and to add definition at the waist, I used the drawstrings from the back and tied them in front. So, I'm going to enjoy rocking these two new pieces in my wardrobe this spring. |


























