As you see, I didn't make it in time for the Mini-Wardrobe Contest. I figured I wouldn't. This suit was just not an afternoon project.

Description: Fitted, partially interfaced lined jacket with welt pockets and flaps, princess seams, front inset button closing, two-piece sleeves with button vents. Semi-fitted pants with front fly closing, side front pockets and below waistline fit with button carriers.

This jacket is cut just like any basic princess seam jacket. I needed to make a 1" FBA on the jacket and facing pieces. That was the only alteration to the pattern I needed to make. Suprisingly, I didn't have to lengthen the sleeves.

All of the jacket pieces (except the sleeves) are interfaced. The jacket has welt pockets. I decided that mine would be "faux" pockets. I omitted the pocket bags because I can not recall a time I have ever used pockets on a suit jacket.

I decided I would use a print for my lining. Unfortunately on short notice, I couldn't find a silk type of fabric that I liked. I did however discover a rayon challis print that would really coordinate with my wardrobe colors. I used black china silk for the sleeves... for the slide factor. I used keyhole buttonholes on the faux vest inset and I think they turned out very nicely... a lot better than I see on some RTW. The jacket also has 2-piece sleeves with a three-button vent. The entire edge of jacket is topstitched 1/8" from the edge. The hem of the jacket and sleeves were both interfaced for stability.

The pants are a basic trouser. The only alteration I made to them was lengthening by six inches. If not, the original 30" inseam would have been a capri pant on me. These pants have side pockets with a tab closure. They have a real fly front! I love a real fly... just like on men's trousers. They have a plain darted back, and my favorite part are the tab carriers. I really love this suit. I have planned on doing a few suits between now and the end of the year, just to add to my wardrobe. This isn't just a plain suit... it has pizazz and it's a fantastic addition. It's too unique to have more than one, so this will be it for this pattern.

Claude Montana is known for his figure-hugging designs, and this is certainly one!

This is my second garment for the Mini-Wardrobe Contest. The envelope *claims* "2 Hour Pattern"... well, it took me a little longer than that. I cut the size 16 (should have cut the 14), made a 1" FBA (my usual) and added 3 inches to the length. I knew I would wear this tucked in and wanted the extra length so it would stay tucked.

As you know, silk is a very fluid fabric. I layed it out on top of some old fabric that I would normally use for muslin for more control while cutting. I used narrow hems and french seams (sorry I didn't get any pics of that... the battery died). I wasn't sure how the ruffle would hang, but after steaming it, that's how it fell. I think this is another overlooked pattern that would make a great wardrobe essential.

This is my first piece from my Mini-Wardrobe.

The instructions were very easy to follow... so easy that I barely used them! The drafting of the pattern was fine. The pattern envelope illustration was deceptive. The neckline on the illustration was exaggerated and no where near as wide. It's a good thing there was actually a photograph of an actual dress.

I had to make several pattern alterations. I made a 1" FBA, raised the horizontal dart, graded the skirt up to the next size at the widest point of my hip and added 3" to the skirt length. The pattern instructed for only the bodice to be lined, but I'm a "fully-lined" kinda girl. I eliminated the loop closures and just went for hook and eyes. I made a 1" hem and secured the lining to French vent. I was concerned if my bra straps would show, but they didn't. I still plan to pick up some tiny snaps and add bra strap holders to the shoulder area for extra security. This is a great pattern and I could see this done up in an evening fabric for a great cocktail dress too!