Saturday, October 21, 2017

Hot Pink Cords + A Silk Blouse from GANT!

Vogue 9181 | Hot Pink Corduroy Pants - Erica Bunker DIY Style!
Fall is simply the season for napped fabrics! Last week, I talked about sewing velvet. Velvet is such a hot, huge trend right now, quite naturally it would spark an interest in corduroy.
http://www.ericabunker.com/2017/10/how-to-sew-velvet-kimono.html
Our best fashion friend from the 70s, is making a major comeback this season. I haven't sewn with corduroy in years, 6 to be exact. The last time I made corduroy pants were in 2011. I made a pair of turquoise jeans from Vogue 8330. I wore those things for years and just got rid of them probably last year during a closet purge.
Vogue 9181 | Hot Pink Corduroy Pants - Erica Bunker DIY Style!
This pattern is Vogue 9181. For years, I was married to Vogue 9032. I sewed those pants FIVE times! I didn't think it got any better than that one. It was my "tried and true". And as I was looking back at old pictures and searching through my pattern cabinet, I discovered I'd bought V9181. I compared the patterns to each other to see if there was a difference. The biggest difference is V9181 has 3 butt shapes (i.e. flat, standard and curvy). I was immediately intrigued! This is the pants version of cup sizing in a bodice. So I was sold on trying this one.
Vogue 9181 | Hot Pink Corduroy Pants - Erica Bunker DIY Style!
I'd previously used the size 14 in the V9032. V9181 are drafted for stretch wovens. This amazing 8 wale hot pink corduroy that I found at Minerva Crafts, has ZERO stretch. Absolutely none... So I sized up to a 16 and used the curvy butt back. I added 5 inches to the length and that was the only fit alteration I needed to make.
Vogue 9181 | Hot Pink Corduroy Pants - Erica Bunker DIY Style!
However, I did add pockets. Pockets on pants is definitely something I'd miss.
Vogue 9181 | Hot Pink Corduroy Pants - Erica Bunker DIY Style!
I used the pockets from V9032.  
Vogue 9181 | Hot Pink Corduroy Pants - Erica Bunker DIY Style!
I love when pockets extend to the center front on flat front pants. It supports any tummy bulge and gives you a nice smooth look.
Vogue 9181 | Hot Pink Corduroy Pants - Erica Bunker DIY Style!
These pants have a faux fly finish. So installing the zipper is really quick and easy.
Vogue 9181 | Hot Pink Corduroy Pants - Erica Bunker DIY Style!
These pants sit at the natural waist and have a comfortable and super flattering contoured waistband with belt carriers. They fit so well, a belt isn't really needed. If you're a woman with curves and a waist that's 10+ inches smaller than your hip... then I would suggest this pattern. It's very rare that you can find a pattern that has butt room and fit the waist at the same time, without having to work for it. When you see the "Big Booty Judy's" wearing stretchy, spandexy clothes, it's because finding RTW clothes made of stable fabric that fit certain proportions is unrealistic. The struggle is so real. So, a winning pair of pants for ME are pants that don't gape at the center back; I can sit and bend without showing butt-crack; are not riding up on the inner thigh and being eaten by my crotch! And pockets that aren't gaping out. Screw all of that other nitpicky shit!
GANT Diamond G Silk Popover Blouse - Erica Bunker DIY Style!
And can we talk about this fabulous blouse that I paired with my new cords? It's the GANT Diamond G Silk Popover Blouse.
GANT Diamond G Silk Popover Blouse - Erica Bunker DIY Style!
GANT sent over this beautiful blouse. It's made in an offwhite 100% washed silk crepe de chine. I'm wearing the size 10, because boobs... I'm always on a mission to add more tops to my wardrobe because I never feel I have enough. And this is a great one. It would work with everything from layering it under a suit, to casual pants like my cords and jeans, of course, to even wearing it as a tunic top with leather leggings for this fall. It's a great addition to my wardrobe and it's even currently on sale!

Last, but not least...

Here is my "How to Sew a Blind Hem" tutorial. It's for these pants. I feel that so many stitches and feet that come with home sewing machines are overlooked. And this is one that would make your sewing life so much easier. A blind hem can be used on pants, skirts, dresses and jackets. And it gives your garment a polished look.








9 comments:

  1. I love doing blind hems especially on tweeds and woolens where the stitches blend in with the fabric so well. I've been considering that pants pattern since summer. Your cords are gorgeous, guess I should use yours as a clue that it's time to do some more pants experimentation.

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    1. Faye, I think you'll like this one. Thanks!

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  2. These are lovely, Erica, but I wanted to compliment your photographer (and your lovely face!) for that last shot! Looks like it belongs in a magazine. :)

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  3. Your level of tailoring is amazing! Those pants are impresive. I remember courderoy from childhood with love, i'm very happy they're coming back.

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  4. Very flattering cut for you Erica!

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  5. I have this pattern and I thought I would look at some reviews before making them. Yours are lovely, thanks for posting.

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