tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36954085308906781872024-03-07T03:34:25.577+00:00TadpegsSew, Bake, CreateAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04532444221340513433noreply@blogger.comBlogger183125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3695408530890678187.post-62551457289679240752016-01-06T17:08:00.001+00:002016-01-06T17:09:24.956+00:00It's Time To Have A Catch Up<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihI2tEnVt5QcLuw4jIjZJjTUBTRtHfe8FvcrAicqoqSUEoXwLkwgHAtLHvjXIqALC2C81St9lOtZsf-JcbzLXpuo4U6qrZ0gsAzUBz9Cn-LvYXgxW2favU8uoo8658PW5kMJvFGH8HYfE/s1600/IMG_7200.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihI2tEnVt5QcLuw4jIjZJjTUBTRtHfe8FvcrAicqoqSUEoXwLkwgHAtLHvjXIqALC2C81St9lOtZsf-JcbzLXpuo4U6qrZ0gsAzUBz9Cn-LvYXgxW2favU8uoo8658PW5kMJvFGH8HYfE/s640/IMG_7200.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Last year was a crazy year for me. I was busy from start to finish and by the end felt completely exhausted. As a result updating this blog slipped lower and lower on my list of priorities. I knew this was happening back<a href="http://tadpegs.blogspot.co.uk/2015/04/denim-skirts-and-blogging-habits.html"> in April</a> and wrote that I would be slowing down with blog updates but over the last six months I haven't just slowed down but completely ground to a halt. So I thought I would share a quick update about what I have been up to since making <a href="http://tadpegs.blogspot.co.uk/2015/07/geometric-emery-dress.html">this dress</a> (which is so far my favourite ever make).<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9vUWmHhzpmII3DxP6O3BltPU354VPeZalMtp7xLy_Ip3Gbnuf_ryvunsowwuzuPQiyEAmwUPfag0jWdczaFLCSv3ONaFjdki9aAeyloZ2QpRpapl8MUWx4B6Ys-YwII8wnpq1ajpnN4Y/s1600/tri8.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9vUWmHhzpmII3DxP6O3BltPU354VPeZalMtp7xLy_Ip3Gbnuf_ryvunsowwuzuPQiyEAmwUPfag0jWdczaFLCSv3ONaFjdki9aAeyloZ2QpRpapl8MUWx4B6Ys-YwII8wnpq1ajpnN4Y/s640/tri8.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
In the summer my friend Miriam and I entered a mini and then a sprint triathlon. This was unexpected for me as I was very unfit and if you had told me this time last year then I would have called you a liar. But I really enjoyed the challenge and the impact that getting fit had on everything- sleeping better, eating better, feeling more full of energy, achieving goals- the list goes on and on. If you have never signed up for an event I really recommend it, start with a 5k run or a local bikathon and see how much better the training makes you feel. I sound like an annoying fitness nut don't I? Well whatever, it's true!<br />
<br />
This of course was a big drain on my time and probably made the biggest impact on this here blog. I am already planning an olympic distance tri for 2016 so I can't see this changing dramatically in the upcoming months.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZK-Rg-DmZrGMjc0pDF654nUx4pRo2PFpvBxq-Ly1dNvZot6dSMbKdiMEJbqqQjdv2pGqe_U3xKNiOiUdM9vX9160LveRnuymrU1z6gb91d36hnESRQCK8T82A4G0YyLVg3aHnzclwdlM/s1600/image-19.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZK-Rg-DmZrGMjc0pDF654nUx4pRo2PFpvBxq-Ly1dNvZot6dSMbKdiMEJbqqQjdv2pGqe_U3xKNiOiUdM9vX9160LveRnuymrU1z6gb91d36hnESRQCK8T82A4G0YyLVg3aHnzclwdlM/s640/image-19.jpeg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJsQO2ALlOHgI72zFj4vwC2bJ9oH66sJdAABsGuUMRle9dELom0JGnmBtAedrHrbIXH2tulKXYrKgYW2Pcxe6gLGnXbzowPB4WHii3GFBEyUbyx635cnyOJ7hyphenhyphen4sbvP5JFZ15A2Zgd274/s1600/image-20.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJsQO2ALlOHgI72zFj4vwC2bJ9oH66sJdAABsGuUMRle9dELom0JGnmBtAedrHrbIXH2tulKXYrKgYW2Pcxe6gLGnXbzowPB4WHii3GFBEyUbyx635cnyOJ7hyphenhyphen4sbvP5JFZ15A2Zgd274/s640/image-20.jpeg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
After transforming into a fitness nut (well not quite, I still eat loads of chocolate, sweets and baked goods and can zip through a box set on TV faster than you can say 'bunch of munch crunchy stuff') I thought it would be fun to make myself some cycling and running clothes. I promptly bought myself the '<a href="http://shop.fehrtrade.com/products/surf-to-summit-top-ladies">surf to summit' pattern from Fehr Trade </a>and made a summer cycle jersey and a winter half zip top. These were very challenging and pushed my skills to a new level so they are far from perfect but I am really proud of them. The one pictured is the cycling jersey as the winter top isn't quite complete yet. I might do a post on these two tops but don't hold your breath as I am not sure they are quite up to standard.<br />
<br />
I then spent November and December working 2 jobs and didn't have any extra time to sew anything at all. So not a lot of sewing time left (or energy to do it either) and I didn't even make any christmas decorations or gifts this year.<br />
<br />
So that is a short a sweet summary of the last 6 months. This month I am going to be decorating our house, well the downstairs any way. I could show you a few pictures of this if you like? Let me know in the comments if you do. Then I hope to fit in some more sewing time starting with quilts for my children. When the warmer weather comes I expect I'll be making more clothes- these are MUCH more fun to make than the winter warmers right? I hope to update Tadpegs a little more regularly so thanks for sticking with me.<br />
<br />
Happy new year to you all! Zoe xAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04532444221340513433noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3695408530890678187.post-7054941106367079842015-08-26T15:04:00.002+01:002015-08-26T15:04:48.257+01:00Planning for Autumn/Winter<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEJdmJu8HNQoGHxu086biDv9uBuhhc2IMlRVqslXDwij5dldDnmtinNBFnzE_Oo_WiTuW_JpvpWnNpu2PA0sJIFgnRtOKqY4Tv0K3QAo8IYqToo3AItnaumW8wyJCWgQ9ByiGu5_qmnnw/s1600/DSC_1010.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEJdmJu8HNQoGHxu086biDv9uBuhhc2IMlRVqslXDwij5dldDnmtinNBFnzE_Oo_WiTuW_JpvpWnNpu2PA0sJIFgnRtOKqY4Tv0K3QAo8IYqToo3AItnaumW8wyJCWgQ9ByiGu5_qmnnw/s1600/DSC_1010.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Now I know what you're thinking, 'it's still August so Summer isn't over yet!' and I 100% agree. However when you sew most of your own clothes you have to think ahead. If I want my warm clothes to be ready for the cold weather I need to get my skates on and start sewing them soon. So I thought I would share with you a few things I am thinking about making for this coming winter.<br />
<br />
As I have said before, I am not going to make things just for the sake of having something to make. I don't want to waste time or money on clothes unless I actually need them. That said I've wanted to make a coat for a while even though I probably have enough coats so you never know!<br />
<br />
<b>Trousers</b><br />
When the colder whether approaches I wear trousers much more often. My favourite pair of jeans (that I love) are beginning to disintegrate so I think I've reached the point where making some more is in order. I have been eyeing up the<a href="http://www.store.closetcasefiles.com/products/ginger-skinny-jeans-pattern"> Ginger Jeans pattern from Closet Case Files </a>for a while:<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0632/8217/products/GINGER-JEANS---SQUARE-PROMO_grande.jpg?v=1436974575" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0632/8217/products/GINGER-JEANS---SQUARE-PROMO_grande.jpg?v=1436974575" height="640" width="640" /></a></div>
I think these jeans look great and I have only seen good reviews of the pattern so far. I am also tempted by the <a href="http://shop.sewoverit.co.uk/collections/dressmaking-patterns/products/ultimate-trousers">Ultimate trousers from Sew Over It</a>:<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/originals/66/28/99/662899a63139683b7780bf9f66342671.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/originals/66/28/99/662899a63139683b7780bf9f66342671.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
Plus isn't the styling in this photo just the cutest? I am currently undecided between these two patterns and probably wouldn't invest in both in one season. The jeans would be easier to wear and more of a fun sewing challenge but the ultimate trousers are available in a printed pattern, would be easier to make and would definitely help me get my vintage on. What do you think?<br />
<br />
<b>Knits</b><br />
My favourite thing about winter wear is wrapping up all warm in layer upon layer of knits. So Snuggly. Problem is - I can't knit. There are a few options open to us non-knitting folk.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://i.imgur.com/i22oi1X.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://i.imgur.com/i22oi1X.jpg" height="640" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />
The above is <a href="http://curvysewingcollective.com/review-jenna-cardigan-by-muse-patterns/">Curvy-Sewing-Collectives</a> version of the <a href="http://sewingmuse.com/products/jenna-cardi">Jenna Cardigan by Muse Patterns</a>. I am very tempted by this pattern. It has lots of different options for lengths and sleeves so is a pretty versatile pattern and I know I would get lots of wear out of it- especially in Autumn and Winter. I would love to find a pattern somewhere for a big slouchy cardigan too for when the extra cold weather comes- any ideas? I am yet to find one I like though, maybe I'll just have to learn to knit?!?<br />
<br />
<b>Coats</b><br />
So as I mentioned above I don't actually need a coat. I have a warm jacket, a waterproof coat and a big fur (fake) coat for the coldest days. But I do think it would be really fun to make a coat! I absolutely adore this coat:<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj70UbcertFTe1exxCtReQuYiznaGNvY9-BsdbW9a92_hsLvWX7IKc_GGEsPra26tvAMwVzzUs-JkDSriLb3L54EskZTxX8cGhf9cjpXRsbRX0rWdSFJcGayJvTRSqKCDpwfHGmSjqqFdfb/s1600/MEfront.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj70UbcertFTe1exxCtReQuYiznaGNvY9-BsdbW9a92_hsLvWX7IKc_GGEsPra26tvAMwVzzUs-JkDSriLb3L54EskZTxX8cGhf9cjpXRsbRX0rWdSFJcGayJvTRSqKCDpwfHGmSjqqFdfb/s1600/MEfront.png" height="640" width="640" /></a></div>
Made by my friend <a href="http://jacqmadeit.blogspot.co.uk/2014/11/winter-is-here-and-so-is-my-cape.html">Jacq over at Jacq-Made-It</a>. It is warm, stylish and slightly easier to make than a full on sleeved coat. I think it would look amazing with a pair of black Ginger jeans right? Another (slightly more tricky) coat I have my eye on is the <a href="http://shop.grainlinestudio.com/products/cascade-duffle-coat">Cascade Duffle coat from Grainline Studios</a>:<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://grainlinestudio.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/cascade021.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://grainlinestudio.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/cascade021.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
Super warm and a fun sewing challenge. My biggest concern about this coat though is that I haven't sewn with thicker fabrics like the wools you really need for this type of coat, and they are quite expensive so I would be extremely nervous that I would waste it all on a failed attempt. Eeek.<br />
<br />
<b>Dresses and Tops</b><br />
The Ginger Jeans are not the only pattern from Closest Case Files that tickles my fancy. I also have been about to buy the Nettie Bodysuit pattern about 5 times so far and then thought better of it because I have lots of other things already to sew up. I am pretty sure I will actually go for it though this season because the pattern just has so many variations that I know I would use in the colder weather:<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0632/8217/products/Nettie_sewing_pattern_Dress_pattern_bodysuit_pattern_grande.jpg?v=1436974076" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0632/8217/products/Nettie_sewing_pattern_Dress_pattern_bodysuit_pattern_grande.jpg?v=1436974076" /></a></div>
<br />
I can just imagine wearing a nice thick knit dress made from this pattern in the autumn and then layering up the bodysuit version in the winter with a cardigan and coat. This pattern is pretty much at the top of my list so there isn't much of a question here.<br />
<br />
I am not short of dresses at the moment though so I don't think I'll be buying any other dress patterns for a bit. In terms of other tops I'd like to make myself <a href="http://tadpegs.blogspot.co.uk/2015/01/a-flannel-caroline-shirt-from-free.html">another caroline shirt,</a> possibly a dark wash chambray and another tartan one?<br />
<br />
<b>Skirts</b><br />
Finally for skirts, I think its unlikely I'll buy any new skirts patterns this year. In the Autumn winter I think I would like to make another pencil skirt, (possibly in houndstooth) and I have the <a href="http://tadpegs.blogspot.co.uk/2015/03/charlotte-skirt-and-crop-top.html">Charlotte skirt </a>pattern from By Hand London for that. I also have a very large ladies leather jacket that I am going to try and make into an A-line skirt using the <a href="http://tadpegs.blogspot.co.uk/2014/10/denim-delphine.html">Delphine pattern</a> from Love At First Stitch (From Tilly and the Buttons). I find these more structured skirts are much easier to wear when the wind is a-howling!<br />
<br />
So I think I have plenty to be getting on with! What are your sewing plans for the next few months? Zoe xAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04532444221340513433noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3695408530890678187.post-60314530639248907362015-07-03T14:36:00.000+01:002015-07-03T14:36:24.937+01:00Geometric Emery Dress<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSA__56reDjZGqPQn4HHxJYx974sZ7WJcmBVj_Fh3xTEyrKyctw6klxsmJ1b5JWurNmpYRwG-LlhPlaQSjBNdycbQnEqHS6unuyTX4tCq-23JFjYoUhxyLVUDEjcQcIDsDNKNE7NYQ8Xs/s1600/IMG_7049.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSA__56reDjZGqPQn4HHxJYx974sZ7WJcmBVj_Fh3xTEyrKyctw6klxsmJ1b5JWurNmpYRwG-LlhPlaQSjBNdycbQnEqHS6unuyTX4tCq-23JFjYoUhxyLVUDEjcQcIDsDNKNE7NYQ8Xs/s1600/IMG_7049.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
Hold the phone, stop the bus and start a newsflash! It's an Emery dress! I think I have seen more Emery dresses, or variations of, than any other pattern so this isn't really newsworthy stuff here. However I think I made the best one. At least its my personal favourite. Since this is one of the only two I can actually wear I think thats perfect. I am delighted with the finished item.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsHIqBhdPeKN7-u44y0pVOSuCEcDP_jSCfHONgrrd9vnX5O9mePjAPbWZgIbhcF2qBSJLbz-NiBuvbIZhqpOrI79PjfmOFgbCEGsqV_k9iY7Koa6dX5e682X-suU8XpDcGXZq_Eh2dP00/s1600/IMG_7047.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsHIqBhdPeKN7-u44y0pVOSuCEcDP_jSCfHONgrrd9vnX5O9mePjAPbWZgIbhcF2qBSJLbz-NiBuvbIZhqpOrI79PjfmOFgbCEGsqV_k9iY7Koa6dX5e682X-suU8XpDcGXZq_Eh2dP00/s1600/IMG_7047.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<b>Things I love about this dress:</b><br />
1. The fabric! When I saw this fabric at<a href="http://www.guthrie-ghani.co.uk/"> Guthrie&Ghani</a> I couldn't leave it in the (online) shop. I think it is beautiful and the colours are basically my chosen colour palette all in one fabric. In real life the print is just as gorgeous and really suits my style.<br />
2. The fit is almost perfect, I've made <a href="http://tadpegs.blogspot.co.uk/2015/02/an-emery-dress-for-spring.html">one other Emery dress</a> and the fit seemed pretty good so I didn't make any changes. I was actually planning to make some this time having not really done any alterations before (and I wanted to try it out) but it turns out, at least for this pattern, I don't really need to.<br />
3. The dress pattern is really lovely. I can see why this dress is one of the most popular patterns for the last few years on the blogosphere, its simple, elegant and flattering without being overly dressy.<br />
4. It is very wearable and fills (or starts to fill) the 'I need a few more casual(ish) dresses' gap in my wardrobe. This was something I<a href="http://tadpegs.blogspot.co.uk/2015/06/lessons-from-me-made-may-2015.html"> identified during Me-Made-May</a> and I know some people wouldn't describe this as casual however I would definitely wear it on the school run (and have) so I give it the casual seal of approval.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLsyY4KPTAAGwHMLoYW5mlQwjRj1ecKc_nmNP8MrKavoCeouADvZXLVBef3NThM1eL1GuJbBgOiX8KOJEQONm1AlR9oVbKgk2sKXySPv_m4WxWYXnPERZXWnKd8q_JI3obLUfousCZAiY/s1600/IMG_7020.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLsyY4KPTAAGwHMLoYW5mlQwjRj1ecKc_nmNP8MrKavoCeouADvZXLVBef3NThM1eL1GuJbBgOiX8KOJEQONm1AlR9oVbKgk2sKXySPv_m4WxWYXnPERZXWnKd8q_JI3obLUfousCZAiY/s1600/IMG_7020.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<b>Things I'd consider doing differently next time:</b><br />
1. While I absolutely LOVE the design of the fabric, its a little bit itchy. This may be in part because I've worn it during the hottest week I can remember living through but even when its a little cooler its still just a teensy bit itchy. Nothing so bad that I won't wear it, and even if I had felt this fabric before buying I love the print so much that I would have bought it any way because, well - did I mention I love the print? But its not quite as soft as I expected.<br />
2. The general fit is great but the armholes are quite low under my arms. I guess I didn't notice this on my first one because it has sleeves but I'll probably try and change this next time.<br />
3. I'd use a longer zip. I really wanted to try and make a whole dress without looking at the instruction (and I did) so was pretty proud when it was finished, but after I had already inserted the zip I realised it was not the right length so I have to perform some pretty funky looking acrobatics to actually put it on. My daughter actually said to me when I first tried it - 'Mummy I think you have made it too small.' Well I proved her wrong - but it wasn't easy. Next time looking at the instructions just for this detail would totally be Ok with me.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_vCb4uwmlqoIK5paQPcVDsOqr74pkSX-JAJFHGHcPiQesF2a4qFQN0h90BeMioPHYEj1E9jsP0cPl5UCJmWEFR1hVDK8gfCJ5U0E9BUb_G-OMoEypllCqubeAROc8h_crNnA5U1Fq8Uw/s1600/IMG_7055.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_vCb4uwmlqoIK5paQPcVDsOqr74pkSX-JAJFHGHcPiQesF2a4qFQN0h90BeMioPHYEj1E9jsP0cPl5UCJmWEFR1hVDK8gfCJ5U0E9BUb_G-OMoEypllCqubeAROc8h_crNnA5U1Fq8Uw/s1600/IMG_7055.jpg" /></a></div>
Next on my sewing table is some workout gear so a BIG step away from this, but I kind of like the contrast. I'll show you it all in good time. Happy Summer! Zoe xAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04532444221340513433noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3695408530890678187.post-42698499029491645752015-06-05T16:40:00.002+01:002015-06-05T16:40:29.698+01:00Lessons from Me-Made-May 2015<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dyCzx3HMXAVX0J15-iON5v_5aXIFxahhpypttCLeda1C7IM3LR9mCCXXqgbx_fK8U665SNYb8vTGwSV5p_-sg' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
<br />
<br />
Wow another <a href="http://tadpegs.blogspot.co.uk/2015/04/me-made-may-2015.html">Me-Made-May </a>has come to an end, and for me this year was a roaring success. I managed to wear a handmade outfit every day for the whole month without repeating any complete outfits. This was a pretty exciting moment for me and felt like a graduation from someone who makes and wears her own clothes into someone who has a complete handmade wardrobe. That's not to say that I didn't have any problems or gaps in my wardrobe- I certainly did- but that I have now made enough items that I actually enjoy wearing, that can be mixed and matched together and I can build on what I have already to fill my wardrobe. If you follow me on Instagram you will have already seen every outfit but here I will share a few other things I learnt over the past month.<br />
<br />
1. My Capsule Wardrobe Works!<br />
My biggest goal during May was to see if working on <a href="http://tadpegs.blogspot.co.uk/2014/11/creating-capsule-wardrobe-part-1.html">my capsule wardrobe</a> had been worth the effort, and it DEFINITELY has. I had loads of items to choose from that could be mixed and matched together, that suited my style, to create lots of fun outfits. Altogether I only wore (about) 18 items, but managed to create 31 different outfits from these items. I admit that by the end of the month I was starting to get a little bored of the restriction but I think if I were to add a handful of new items it would spice it up a little.<br />
<br />
2. I need some more icing (or as some people call it 'frosting')<br />
I have focused so hard in the last few month on creating a capsule wardrobe that I have made loads of basics and very few fun, patterned items. Some people have called this making 'cake not icing'. Every one loves some icing and making the cake is the slightly less enjoyable part. I however have so much cake that I need some more icing to bring back the joy of dressmaking. Plus one of the main advantages of being able to make ones own clothes is that you can make something a bit different and not what every one else is wearing so it'll be good to take advantage of this a bit more. I will probably try from here on out to alternate between making a basic and then a fun item so I keep a good balance as I go forward, after all I don't want to waste all the work I have put in so far.<br />
<br />
3. I love wearing dresses<br />
Linked closely to the 'needing more icing' lesson I realised how much I enjoy wearing dresses. I now have a few fancy(isn) dresses (<a href="http://tadpegs.blogspot.co.uk/2014/11/christmas-dresses-made-for-two.html">here</a> and <a href="http://tadpegs.blogspot.co.uk/2015/02/an-emery-dress-for-spring.html">here</a>) and a few casual dresses (<a href="http://tadpegs.blogspot.co.uk/2015/03/two-tone-denim-for-lovely-laurel.html">here</a> and <a href="http://tadpegs.blogspot.co.uk/2015/05/a-holly-non-jumpsuit-dress.html">here</a>) but since I enjoy wearing them more than anything else I would really like to make a few more. The next item planned is going to tick this box so stay tuned.<br />
<br />
4. I don't have many warm handmade clothes<br />
Every day I started out wearing totally handmade but often, especially nearer the beginning of the month, I would add a few extra layers to keep myself warm and occasionally I changed altogether. Items I lack include <a href="http://www.store.closetcasefiles.com/products/ginger-skinny-jeans-pattern">jeans,</a> cardigans, leggings and a <a href="http://shop.grainlinestudio.com/collections/outerwear/products/cascade-duffle-coat">handmade coat.</a> These are all on my 'to sew' list going forward and I am thinking about trying a 'Me-Made-Winter-Week' to test out my winter capsule wardrobe sometime in either November or January. What do you think, would you be up for it? I for one wouldn't manage a whole month in the winter but a week would be a nice starting point.<br />
<br />
5. I would really like some handmade sportswear<br />
I literally never thought I would say this. I hated exercising until about 2 months ago when a friend of mine persuaded me to enter a mini triathlon with her. I know, talk about diving in at the deep end - literally. Since it had been so long since I last pounded the pavements I decided to start a training program to make sure I was up to fitness. This meant lots of exercise. And I did not have enough to wear. I am now totally addicted to exercising (another thing I never thought I would say) so some handmade cycle shorts, cycling top, running top etc are now also on my list. Whew that was a much longer story than I thought. During May my sportswear was all shop bought and I intend to change this soon. I have my eye on <a href="http://shop.fehrtrade.com/collections/frontpage/products/duathlon-shorts">these shorts</a> and <a href="http://shop.fehrtrade.com/collections/frontpage/products/surf-to-summit-top-ladies">this top</a> pattern to start with, maybe advancing to a trisuit at some point?!<br />
<br />
So that is quite a lot of learning from just one month of wearing handmade. From my long list of things to make it seems like there will be lots of activity around here over the next few months. Can't wait to get sewing. Zoe xAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04532444221340513433noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3695408530890678187.post-90983157770159246032015-05-21T13:43:00.002+01:002015-05-21T13:43:57.192+01:00A Holly Non-Jumpsuit Dress<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZpaAFT02IC0iEbeRqHAzqISzxiQGRzl47wBEplTBNHclDwp6DWLBUMjD-m9gBbN9iwkv2RZNOGzTBiv46qt6F_glOMHdeXhF6hDKEU5DJOoaEo63593cIdHOw8ma4MnpZIsaZo5rxJlY/s1600/DSC_0483.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZpaAFT02IC0iEbeRqHAzqISzxiQGRzl47wBEplTBNHclDwp6DWLBUMjD-m9gBbN9iwkv2RZNOGzTBiv46qt6F_glOMHdeXhF6hDKEU5DJOoaEo63593cIdHOw8ma4MnpZIsaZo5rxJlY/s1600/DSC_0483.jpg" /></a></div>
I love this fabric! I saw it on So-Zo-What-Do-You-Know blog on a holly playsuit way bag in September. Then in January I saw a bolt end at a slightly reduced price at <a href="http://www.fabricgodmother.co.uk/">Fabric Godmother</a> and couldn't resist. Once it arrive I kept it in a drawer for a little while unsure what to make with it. But when I saw a holly dress on <a href="http://whatkatiesews.net/holly-not-a-jumpsuit/">What Katie Sews</a> I was pretty sure that work well for this fabric. And I think it rocks.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhN7cuzcM07_hvJJocDouvoYc_QSX4PTEyNr_p09azmG_Dm68OifH36OIUBhTVVLWtpDgKRjJJYbdkpwnH3INtRsJDK3ds3xU-h0QcyBMVT6iMybWHk3orfkwA3aWwZExhtWVTkq-4s7FI/s1600/DSC_0478.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhN7cuzcM07_hvJJocDouvoYc_QSX4PTEyNr_p09azmG_Dm68OifH36OIUBhTVVLWtpDgKRjJJYbdkpwnH3INtRsJDK3ds3xU-h0QcyBMVT6iMybWHk3orfkwA3aWwZExhtWVTkq-4s7FI/s1600/DSC_0478.jpg" /></a></div>
I only finished it after May started, but since my Me-Made-May pledge is to wear a different outfit each day I haven't had much opportunity to wear it. I am therefore having to be a little creative about new ways to make it work.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrwq-O6cPj3zDNJr2odz16VIglE9LpxMDLcNCTsP56vTrRaaKGR0LEA8MrgN2ywRmr-lr2oSH-fJqrpzUazWR212ADCIWIBIG0s3MsQbgkanDkkLJ_PgA0DhHpKauTGwWWl3ySZVSo1sE/s1600/DSC_0479.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrwq-O6cPj3zDNJr2odz16VIglE9LpxMDLcNCTsP56vTrRaaKGR0LEA8MrgN2ywRmr-lr2oSH-fJqrpzUazWR212ADCIWIBIG0s3MsQbgkanDkkLJ_PgA0DhHpKauTGwWWl3ySZVSo1sE/s1600/DSC_0479.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyw8QR498jiaVI5kmg4qr15l1VABZDACX8Gy-6jgJ4rH6jStTKPSEdGkutbvMJGqkoeZKpodYP6hQL7_rF5doCcGBnpjHVsD6ul1N8eehFSxT1WocgQ8qH7oFiUmD2I9NVGr3FIebRUtU/s1600/DSC_0484.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyw8QR498jiaVI5kmg4qr15l1VABZDACX8Gy-6jgJ4rH6jStTKPSEdGkutbvMJGqkoeZKpodYP6hQL7_rF5doCcGBnpjHVsD6ul1N8eehFSxT1WocgQ8qH7oFiUmD2I9NVGr3FIebRUtU/s1600/DSC_0484.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
This dress, in my opinion, is casual enough for everyday. Sure I could dress it up or wear it out if I wanted to but I love a dress that I can wear every day and for me this one wins. If you fancy making one then you'll need a copy of the <a href="http://byhandlondon.com/products/holly-jumpsuit">Holly Jumpsuit pattern from By Hand London</a> and there is a tutorial on <a href="http://byhandlondon.com/blogs/by-hand-london/15692808-pattern-hacking-holly-a-guest-post-from-katie-marcus">their blog here</a>.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I am fairly confident I'll make another one of these soon but I often say that and then get distracted by something else so I won't make any promises this time. I'll give you a roundup of all my Me-Made-May outfits at the end of the month. See you soon. Zoe</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04532444221340513433noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3695408530890678187.post-84931487426383888982015-04-29T14:31:00.002+01:002015-04-29T14:31:49.374+01:00Me Made May 2015<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEge7SwWTKYLcpAxFL5cYDk3CpRH0OPQ-Guzzfi4F6karUyuyeuF4AZlXMIDdZM45alrFb2i069Aj3elZ9Il87UtPLdpvVsuypVEkUvE_ryXIP1HyA6N8-H6JoLPilNHEs7gVtugsymAX0o/s1600/DSC_0592.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEge7SwWTKYLcpAxFL5cYDk3CpRH0OPQ-Guzzfi4F6karUyuyeuF4AZlXMIDdZM45alrFb2i069Aj3elZ9Il87UtPLdpvVsuypVEkUvE_ryXIP1HyA6N8-H6JoLPilNHEs7gVtugsymAX0o/s1600/DSC_0592.jpg" /></a></div>
So it's that time of year when sewing bloggers and home sewists the world over put their handmade wardrobes to the test. If you haven't heard of Me-Made-May before then check out <a href="http://sozowhatdoyouknow.blogspot.co.uk/2015/04/me-made-may15-my-pledge.html" target="_blank">this post here on the So Zo blog for more inf</a>o. Last year I tried to wear one item of handmade each day, I loved the challenge and I found it extremely useful to figure out what I should sew next. You can read more about <a href="http://tadpegs.blogspot.co.uk/2014/06/my-lessons-from-me-made-may.html">my lessons from last year here.</a> Looking back at last year I realise how few of those early garments that I made are still being worn. I have spent quite a bit of time since then trying to focus on a particular style rather than just sewing whatever pops into my mind. I have written about this process in my <a href="http://tadpegs.blogspot.co.uk/2014/11/creating-capsule-wardrobe-part-1.html">capsule wardrobe posts</a>. There have been good sides and bad sides to this but I am going to put my capsule wardrobe to the test during May this year. Hopefully by the end of the month I'll have worked out where my new wardrobe gaps are.<br />
<br />
So my challenge for this year is to put my capsule wardrobe to the test by wearing a different outfit every day throughout May. I will include RTW knits, underwear, accessories and my chambray shirt but all other items will be handmade. I just had a look and saw that there are currently 385 people signed up for this years challenge so it will be loads of fun.<br />
<br />
I'll probably share quite a few pictures of my outfits on instagram (@zoeblofeld) and I will write a round up post once I am done. If you are interested in seeing the garments in my capsule wardrobe so far I am going to list them below, I may also make a few more during the month so come back if you want to see what I am making. Can't wait for May (not long now) Zoe x<br />
<br />
Tops<br />
<a href="http://tadpegs.blogspot.co.uk/2014/09/owop-and-my-second-plaintain-tee.html">Navy Stripe Plantain</a><br />
<a href="http://tadpegs.blogspot.co.uk/2015/04/sewing-plans-and-stash-busting.html">Short Sleeved Stripe Plantain</a> (now complete)<br />
<a href="http://tadpegs.blogspot.co.uk/2015/03/charlotte-skirt-and-crop-top.html">Stripe Crop Top</a><br />
<a href="http://tadpegs.blogspot.co.uk/2014/05/my-mimi-blouse.html">Cherry Mimi Blouse</a><br />
<a href="http://tadpegs.blogspot.co.uk/2014/05/gingham-peplum-and-my-thoughts-on-love.html">Gingham Peplum Top</a><br />
<a href="http://tadpegs.blogspot.co.uk/2015/01/a-flannel-caroline-shirt-from-free.html">Caroline Shirt</a><br />
Black T-shirt (not yet completed)<br />
<br />
Bottoms<br />
<a href="http://tadpegs.blogspot.co.uk/2014/12/ooo-la-la-its-another-plantain-tee.html">Black 'skinnified' jeans </a><br />
<a href="http://tadpegs.blogspot.co.uk/2014/10/denim-delphine.html">Denim Delphine</a><br />
<a href="http://tadpegs.blogspot.co.uk/2015/04/denim-skirts-and-blogging-habits.html">Denim Circle Skirt</a><br />
<a href="http://tadpegs.blogspot.co.uk/2014/10/tartan-circle-mini-skirt.html">Tartan Circle Skirt</a><br />
<a href="http://tadpegs.blogspot.co.uk/2015/03/charlotte-skirt-and-crop-top.html">Charlotte Skirt</a><br />
<br />
Dresses<br />
<a href="http://tadpegs.blogspot.co.uk/2015/03/two-tone-denim-for-lovely-laurel.html">Two Tone Laurel Dress</a><br />
<a href="http://tadpegs.blogspot.co.uk/2015/02/an-emery-dress-for-spring.html">Emery Dress</a><br />
<a href="http://tadpegs.blogspot.co.uk/2014/10/lets-all-jump-for-holly-jumpsuit.html">Holly Jumpsuit</a><br />
<a href="http://tadpegs.blogspot.co.uk/2014/06/an-autumnal-lilou-dress-even-though.html">Lilou Dress</a><br />
<a href="http://tadpegs.blogspot.co.uk/2014/08/a-simple-stripey-summer-dress-just-as.html">Stripey Summer Dress</a><br />
Birds Holly dress (not yet completed)<br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04532444221340513433noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3695408530890678187.post-27232326016429692192015-04-20T21:49:00.001+01:002015-04-20T21:50:37.556+01:00Denim Skirts and Blogging Habits<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0fPN_v-8G8URYfHTzfTQX-AdOIYKX30hac9tyYtALsQCu7qo5e9aSOFjvRFZAluB2ltOpfTzq2NBwv8vXoGu5RIwyGRVpI-AlBlKFUqY9peei2a5btZ1QT9fpV-M1Arpv5VsZC1odVvE/s1600/DSC_0148.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0fPN_v-8G8URYfHTzfTQX-AdOIYKX30hac9tyYtALsQCu7qo5e9aSOFjvRFZAluB2ltOpfTzq2NBwv8vXoGu5RIwyGRVpI-AlBlKFUqY9peei2a5btZ1QT9fpV-M1Arpv5VsZC1odVvE/s1600/DSC_0148.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Hey everyone. It's been a little while between posts recently around here and that has kind of taken me by surprise. Blogging used to be one of my favourite things about DIY projects, I couldn't wait to finish it so I could get it up on the blog. I am taking a more relaxed approach at the moment and I think it's likely I'll continue this way. I am enjoying posting just occasionally about what I make and I am definitely taking blogging a little less seriously, it'll be quite light hearted, infrequent and more 'look what I made' than 'here is how you can do this' for now. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I have still been making things though and this skirt was promised a couple of weeks ago <a href="http://tadpegs.blogspot.co.uk/2015/04/sewing-plans-and-stash-busting.html">here.</a> It's just a simple circle skirt made with some leftover fabric from my <a href="http://tadpegs.blogspot.co.uk/2015/03/two-tone-denim-for-lovely-laurel.html">two-tone denim dress.</a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXgj1xzQcOX66Or6ckcfjRp9hStGTtrJadtYquMPFW2bXDc_yRSZXB5GV8O9giRoM-d0LmJnrEOOQ9Z9JVrTzfxaJHMen0fiMZqqN-zvoYbgZJlPLVBtCjLNlynXxEcdPjiaSPQuIjkuM/s1600/DSC_0143.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXgj1xzQcOX66Or6ckcfjRp9hStGTtrJadtYquMPFW2bXDc_yRSZXB5GV8O9giRoM-d0LmJnrEOOQ9Z9JVrTzfxaJHMen0fiMZqqN-zvoYbgZJlPLVBtCjLNlynXxEcdPjiaSPQuIjkuM/s1600/DSC_0143.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I think I was feeling particularly self-conscious about being photographed on this day though because I don't look at all relaxed in these photos. Well except the one at the top but you can't actually see most of my face in that one, I guess that's why I liked it. I have been getting much more comfortable about having my outfit photos taken but this was just one of those days.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTmrb7g0POQlu8uEFKuPbS8_0oM0S3ToTPpEkllWarIlXfbdiki3_xu4e9UPJqcGlGVQx8TqolrdZMULGZQChwWuN9wFwivNrtsZemdhPON2KI3FprG_qytqd3hyphenhyphen5x3bd1LuzfWddQZws/s1600/DSC_0138.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTmrb7g0POQlu8uEFKuPbS8_0oM0S3ToTPpEkllWarIlXfbdiki3_xu4e9UPJqcGlGVQx8TqolrdZMULGZQChwWuN9wFwivNrtsZemdhPON2KI3FprG_qytqd3hyphenhyphen5x3bd1LuzfWddQZws/s1600/DSC_0138.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
There is little more to say about this skirt so I think I'll just leave it there for now. I am still deciding what I am planning for me-made-may this year but I'll let you know when I do. Zoe x</div>
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04532444221340513433noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3695408530890678187.post-79680820899322085992015-04-03T14:05:00.002+01:002015-04-03T14:05:19.977+01:00Sewing Plans and Stash Busting<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEju9_ctwtqTjJrS4xhIAv5J5Hk14puib9ZMhmcMtNMMv8MdsZG5TztRqvcnzuAMYUsUwbmBxiBKc3dOvY15JWK5354l9MZKZEsKX-yFX-1RpnLGV3wTXsCk1Z2qVhfkgaDVkWtaJ2R8sPw/s1600/IMG_6253.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEju9_ctwtqTjJrS4xhIAv5J5Hk14puib9ZMhmcMtNMMv8MdsZG5TztRqvcnzuAMYUsUwbmBxiBKc3dOvY15JWK5354l9MZKZEsKX-yFX-1RpnLGV3wTXsCk1Z2qVhfkgaDVkWtaJ2R8sPw/s1600/IMG_6253.JPG" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Over the last few weeks I've been having a sort through all my fabric. I rediscovered quite a few pieces that I bought over the last couple of years but never got round to using. I also found several pieces of half used fabric which I intended to use up but never got round to. I decided that I should take a month making things out of these 'forgotten' fabrics before buying a whole load more that would just sit in the cupboard.<br />
<br />
What follows are some of the projects I've started, some I am planning and others that I need some help deciding what to do. Fancy helping me out? Then lets go! <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqmJulTG8aE0mTUffmFWRqJflG2XZTvCRSKxkk3XQXmDeJjdnLDQypyKtXjPWpM2nbkUrD0ZZWnmn-lhjEffG_MXSWDkyObOpO_gmMiFkplRWCNZDJOso6rWvrVeiYjf3fq6SQDlQJTT4/s1600/IMG_6249.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqmJulTG8aE0mTUffmFWRqJflG2XZTvCRSKxkk3XQXmDeJjdnLDQypyKtXjPWpM2nbkUrD0ZZWnmn-lhjEffG_MXSWDkyObOpO_gmMiFkplRWCNZDJOso6rWvrVeiYjf3fq6SQDlQJTT4/s1600/IMG_6249.JPG" height="853" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
First of all I am re-making my stripy plantain tee, <a href="http://tadpegs.blogspot.co.uk/2014/12/ooo-la-la-its-another-plantain-tee.html">this one</a> that then shrunk in the wash and became <a href="http://tadpegs.blogspot.co.uk/2015/03/charlotte-skirt-and-crop-top.html">this one</a>. Sadly I didn't have enough fabric left for a long sleeve one but was pleased to be able to cut out a short sleeve version. That should be ready soon because it's such a quick pattern to whip up.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMAHTgwPaD8RyoL9b41jcgqSXUKIhwNNNRfpJ9AR7xgfehd-LnRa3zo_9xpqfqLZZXZOC4eg6lfWG4QfR18We9pXXOLKbW9uuCWOsebZ-GgyddPOxIabNQtsfAt2BwlZ0NB_kn4xste1A/s1600/IMG_6248.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMAHTgwPaD8RyoL9b41jcgqSXUKIhwNNNRfpJ9AR7xgfehd-LnRa3zo_9xpqfqLZZXZOC4eg6lfWG4QfR18We9pXXOLKbW9uuCWOsebZ-GgyddPOxIabNQtsfAt2BwlZ0NB_kn4xste1A/s1600/IMG_6248.JPG" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
I've also been chopping up some old clothes to turn into new ones. The above used to be a black 'body- con' dress which I never ever wear so I have chopped off the top and I'm going to turn it into a simple black skirt. I think it'll look good if a little shorter than I would usually choose.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFlhDOOunY7BoEK_iUTf7UZ7SEfEQdxd1EnpYNJjfp4Z_QL2b-sQiTTXCunB8keGHwzxcM3fv574jkPB4G8EOjEiuBpvv3WnZUuWDiurFqvaJ3DunQQeNVPS8-DWYx0TLlbd4chrQZhlc/s1600/IMG_6251.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFlhDOOunY7BoEK_iUTf7UZ7SEfEQdxd1EnpYNJjfp4Z_QL2b-sQiTTXCunB8keGHwzxcM3fv574jkPB4G8EOjEiuBpvv3WnZUuWDiurFqvaJ3DunQQeNVPS8-DWYx0TLlbd4chrQZhlc/s1600/IMG_6251.JPG" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
I've also started a circle skirt made with the lighter denim I used for the sleeves and pockets of <a href="http://tadpegs.blogspot.co.uk/2015/03/two-tone-denim-for-lovely-laurel.html">this dress</a>. I always intended to make a skirt too so bought enough fabric especially. I love to try and make more than one thing from the same fabric because it saves money in the long run.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmDlS1IEq1EYBd5t9yR0VRJpLexs-TSI2z8CqFIirZQvzDpKmH_1kaKczmp63rCwCNN18iS_hIqNPMcdDPDHkMcZkOGJD5n2zqilkBc-0RVweu3z5rnE8w2-oKfB0NMeMv5jUfM5jjGn8/s1600/IMG_6252.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmDlS1IEq1EYBd5t9yR0VRJpLexs-TSI2z8CqFIirZQvzDpKmH_1kaKczmp63rCwCNN18iS_hIqNPMcdDPDHkMcZkOGJD5n2zqilkBc-0RVweu3z5rnE8w2-oKfB0NMeMv5jUfM5jjGn8/s1600/IMG_6252.JPG" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Now for a few things I am planning to make but haven't started yet. I made <a href="http://tadpegs.blogspot.co.uk/2015/01/a-fun-dress-for-fun-girl.html">a little dress for my niece</a> out of the above fabric and I have lots left. I am pretty sure I am going to make myself a top (or two) out of it even though it probably isn't my usually style. What do you think? Should I go for something a little more adventurous? I would really like to buy <a href="http://store.closetcasefiles.com/collections/frontpage/products/nettie-pattern">the nettie bodysuit pattern</a> but am reluctant because you can only get a pdf version at the moment (and these drive me mad). This fabric is really stretchy though so I think it would be a good pattern to use.<br />
<br />
I also have some black and some white jersey. I think the black would be better as a simple tee or vest but the white is also stretchy enough to make a bodysuit from. I definitely need to make some more basics still so I should really bump these two up the queue. Its more fun to sew with patterned fabric though right? Which brings me to this fabric:<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgi_C0Jnf_jV2bUN9J0H4_5PVlgKZSsJbnoYRWmAsVnxwxgVbCVlRO8Lik4bG6bCVhl8V5-YvglSBFmplGlbpN-8CqA1E65yCRtDeq_tr5QkaPqFGsZIe9iDf3VboE0HOa_vJxn-ENGBTw/s1600/IMG_6254.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgi_C0Jnf_jV2bUN9J0H4_5PVlgKZSsJbnoYRWmAsVnxwxgVbCVlRO8Lik4bG6bCVhl8V5-YvglSBFmplGlbpN-8CqA1E65yCRtDeq_tr5QkaPqFGsZIe9iDf3VboE0HOa_vJxn-ENGBTw/s1600/IMG_6254.JPG" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
I bought this spotty fabric nearly 2 years ago and still haven't decided what to do with it. When I ordered it I didn't read the description properly and thought it wasn't so sheer and when it arrived I was scared to use it. I think I am probably up to the challenge now though given how much practise I have had in those 24 months but I can't decide what to do with it! Part of me would like to make a really simple vest or tee, maybe <a href="http://tadpegs.blogspot.co.uk/2015/03/two-tone-denim-for-lovely-laurel.html">a laurel?</a> The other part of me thinks it would make a gorgeous <a href="http://tadpegs.blogspot.co.uk/2014/05/my-mimi-blouse.html">mimi blouse,</a> maybe with a peter pan collar though, but I am not sure! What do you think?<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2HRJ-IsWWnLVeYLR3s1a9vpmgGKT_ly5kUFZLWV5IjL2HJjRX7wIQ2P7m_ZfhHajv_sHCg5jBqGGoV8F6MdSOA2P7lbYUPsCmYakUOzEHVvXjY3C7QAIdIEEugv9R_JU76EZeCIRI_z4/s1600/IMG_6253.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2HRJ-IsWWnLVeYLR3s1a9vpmgGKT_ly5kUFZLWV5IjL2HJjRX7wIQ2P7m_ZfhHajv_sHCg5jBqGGoV8F6MdSOA2P7lbYUPsCmYakUOzEHVvXjY3C7QAIdIEEugv9R_JU76EZeCIRI_z4/s1600/IMG_6253.JPG" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
And last to decide upon is this beauty. I bought it on a whim after seeing <a href="http://sozowhatdoyouknow.blogspot.co.uk/2014/09/holly-playsuit.html">this playsuit</a>. I love it, I just don't know what to do with it. My options are some narrow leg trousers, a laurel dress, a playsuit, an Anna dress, some kind of top or basically anything else you can think of! Since I love it I really want to make something that I will actually wear out of it but also I want to be able to make all of the above because I like the idea of lots of options. So what do you think about this one? I am open to other ideas here so let me know.<br />
<br />
As you can see I have lots I can do without really spending any money so I will probably be busy at least until the end of April and if not through May as well. I am in the process of taking photos of each handmade item currently in my wardrobe so I can see what outfit options I have and make some sense of my growing capsule wardrobe. I'll show you when I am done. See you soon. Zoe xAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04532444221340513433noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3695408530890678187.post-67023031141286829372015-03-20T12:46:00.000+00:002015-03-20T12:46:04.683+00:00Two-Tone Denim For A Lovely Laurel<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdpH9AmXNzn-IIcw2hPuOHiNwINGmYr_qV-MmlU5m6zgSqNvoUQG7TykzkUB6AX63EsAVMkzv0QDAgkmF7-cLcDLUej-cvXjKQj2XFYDKHeitywu6500MgqXyqCt7nzb6Jq8lSxzMmqTs/s1600/DSC_0746.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; display: inline !important; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img alt="two tone Denim Laurel dress by Collette Patterns" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdpH9AmXNzn-IIcw2hPuOHiNwINGmYr_qV-MmlU5m6zgSqNvoUQG7TykzkUB6AX63EsAVMkzv0QDAgkmF7-cLcDLUej-cvXjKQj2XFYDKHeitywu6500MgqXyqCt7nzb6Jq8lSxzMmqTs/s1600/DSC_0746.jpg" title="two tone Denim Laurel dress by Collette Patterns" /></a><br />
<br />
Is it ok that my 18 month old niece was my style inspiration for this dress? Well, whatever, that's who it was ok? She has a super cute tunic, with the two tone denim and raglan sleeves. It's lovely. I figured I could pull off a grown-up version especially since denim is everywhere this season.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTQYcwkQbMmwGJ_R9rP7G5AMQSqmrxBOrARI2aZiR7cdDtTgBiilhf7642TzLMFgV8jmXwVxfzDh-56ueO7V3M7bP41DFHIGmVG8-pfWWJHNOubni9jFEw38yfQRz7VCUq-3Rt2Soxb1I/s1600/DSC_0737.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTQYcwkQbMmwGJ_R9rP7G5AMQSqmrxBOrARI2aZiR7cdDtTgBiilhf7642TzLMFgV8jmXwVxfzDh-56ueO7V3M7bP41DFHIGmVG8-pfWWJHNOubni9jFEw38yfQRz7VCUq-3Rt2Soxb1I/s1600/DSC_0737.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
The pattern is <a href="https://www.colettepatterns.com/sewing/laurel">Laural from Collette patterns</a>. It is actually the third time I have used this pattern. Once with a fabric that it turns out I really don't like so you will probably never see that. The other is a simple white top which I am yet to photograph. I bought the pattern in order to make myself more basics to add to <a href="http://tadpegs.blogspot.co.uk/2014/11/creating-capsule-wardrobe-part-1.html">my capsule wardrobe</a> and I'd say this one gets the seal of approval.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMxXCw1DerY3PAsZdFoYwPH24UnEVJAVNCzM_BjFZvLLcVdTWrVuIOq3f6QViWM5OBIx020lS8ynXTmirJOqnjLE_nE7F8gNUW3SD7bKD0MxVutjRGZycibLR8D8lJb6SiTHgbGksIOGI/s1600/DSC_0736.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="two tone Denim Laurel dress by Collette Patterns" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMxXCw1DerY3PAsZdFoYwPH24UnEVJAVNCzM_BjFZvLLcVdTWrVuIOq3f6QViWM5OBIx020lS8ynXTmirJOqnjLE_nE7F8gNUW3SD7bKD0MxVutjRGZycibLR8D8lJb6SiTHgbGksIOGI/s1600/DSC_0736.jpg" title="two tone Denim Laurel dress by Collette Patterns" /></a></div>
The finished dress is one of those items that makes me feel really proud that I can make my own clothes. It didn't require any complicated sewing techniques and the fabric is an easy one to sew with but it is something I know I will wear many times. Here's to having bare legs more and more in the next few months! Zoe xAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04532444221340513433noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3695408530890678187.post-25058840000049249532015-03-06T13:07:00.000+00:002015-03-18T14:13:17.968+00:00Charlotte Skirt (and a Crop Top)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-Cr9U55vtAYo8UhARmnAe8S4Cs0z2B0i0uM3-vPeDl6PhUjkS2-M9N7NQciwfbEvcFoqfOZZVd5_T-epBGLyEqI6lsQ7Jb5XVC5lSQFq5kX7YyoFEQLYqLUtJN3DWG0EEFi-fL-Ar66A/s1600/DSC_0686.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Charlotte Skirt from By hand london and a crop top" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-Cr9U55vtAYo8UhARmnAe8S4Cs0z2B0i0uM3-vPeDl6PhUjkS2-M9N7NQciwfbEvcFoqfOZZVd5_T-epBGLyEqI6lsQ7Jb5XVC5lSQFq5kX7YyoFEQLYqLUtJN3DWG0EEFi-fL-Ar66A/s1600/DSC_0686.jpg" title="Charlotte Skirt from By hand london and a crop top" /></a></div>
In case you didn't notice when I posted about <a href="http://tadpegs.blogspot.co.uk/2015/02/an-emery-dress-for-spring.html">my spring floral dress</a>, I am already thinking ahead to spring and summer. Us sewing girls have to think ahead and make items well in advance of the season in which we plan to wear them if we want to finish them in time. So way back at the beginning of January I made myself a Pencil Skirt using the <a href="http://byhandlondon.com/products/charlotte-skirt">Charlotte Skirt pattern from By Hand London</a>. I bought the printed pattern (I always prefer a pre-printed pattern) but you can now download a pdf version too if you'd rather.<br />
<br />
The pencil skirt is a favourite shape of mine, in fact I think it flatters just about any woman on the planet. Since it isn't always the most practical of shapes when you have pre-school kids I made it in a slightly stretchy fabric to give me that little extra freedom of movement. I have actually worn it a few times already although usually more like this:<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQ-EzQvFrXP33VDFBkn-x8ik4TtbkEsEtwgtf5Z4PDbOuFPCNCJC1MxIKlrnH_yt9nFVndPGOLwckDYECXn1iwNrRBX3T-KAGFbgwWb2meD_YHSeKA7RGeyPNH0lUTsGyK2DQ52sygMwg/s1600/DSC_0702a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Charlotte Skirt from By hand london and a crop top" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQ-EzQvFrXP33VDFBkn-x8ik4TtbkEsEtwgtf5Z4PDbOuFPCNCJC1MxIKlrnH_yt9nFVndPGOLwckDYECXn1iwNrRBX3T-KAGFbgwWb2meD_YHSeKA7RGeyPNH0lUTsGyK2DQ52sygMwg/s1600/DSC_0702a.jpg" title="Charlotte Skirt from By hand london and a crop top" /></a></div>
So I don't catch frostbite. I am already finding it a super versatile item so I can definitely give it the 'capsule wardrobe' seal of approval.<br />
<br />
The crop top was sort of an accidental make. Do you remember <a href="http://tadpegs.blogspot.co.uk/2014/12/ooo-la-la-its-another-plantain-tee.html">this stripy tee</a>? Well I obviously didn't pre-wash the fabric enough because it shrunk in the wash. Bummer.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-fV5uFHkpFnGTGwnb5RrIrkoAKFTwdnNGzDa83i8bgu2dq4G8csraQwmWvNpt9dAOuz9L95OxP_IoBc9jSmgKditBb1g1KGlmT6QuFk2YYsJMYo1YjdBOMkO3ZRMHn10swRM46-OQLGg/s1600/DSC_0662.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Charlotte Skirt from By hand london and a crop top" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-fV5uFHkpFnGTGwnb5RrIrkoAKFTwdnNGzDa83i8bgu2dq4G8csraQwmWvNpt9dAOuz9L95OxP_IoBc9jSmgKditBb1g1KGlmT6QuFk2YYsJMYo1YjdBOMkO3ZRMHn10swRM46-OQLGg/s1600/DSC_0662.jpg" title="Charlotte Skirt from By hand london and a crop top" /></a></div>
Now clearly it didn't go straight from a long sleeve, regular length top straight to a short sleeve crop-top just in the washing machine, I did have to put some effort in. I took the hem up to about 2 inches above my belly button and cut the 'not quite full length sleeves' to short sleeves. I also took the top in at the side seems so that you couldn't see straight up it. Not exactly sure how some one would end up in a position where they could do that but it made me feel more comfortable nonetheless. The skirt has had a few outings but the top is yet to be seen in public. I don't quite feel comfortable enough for that yet! Hopefully when it gets hotter (when not if) then I'll be desperate to wear it more. Only then will it too be granted the capsule wardrobe status.<br />
<br />
At the moment I am having a bit of a denim day so hopefully I can show you the fruits of my labour soon. Zoe xAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04532444221340513433noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3695408530890678187.post-89386360385086637902015-02-27T17:22:00.000+00:002015-02-27T17:22:56.279+00:00An Emery Dress For Spring<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2eN5VUmMiQ184C7kmJf5jJq3vi2rICHA3JCPxVtcGlFmXx1fmIYsY1fFdd5EjI08ZWrFHbY95Yqpc8flNq2gs6_Pd1m4jFkhPZGYW7QfYciRjN9UlFtV1aMdx8pUHcp4BRY-SrZleC9s/s1600/DSC_0595.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2eN5VUmMiQ184C7kmJf5jJq3vi2rICHA3JCPxVtcGlFmXx1fmIYsY1fFdd5EjI08ZWrFHbY95Yqpc8flNq2gs6_Pd1m4jFkhPZGYW7QfYciRjN9UlFtV1aMdx8pUHcp4BRY-SrZleC9s/s1600/DSC_0595.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9VDfxG3cb4Rv8wVrrzXq2DZKCGbCYXsICFCz4vT9Rsh1R_A1bJOeGPQjTaOHyXHNEB2w3I70zausBs7kiPcRdhCgYkkHBhrCdkbQLHL6qQjH0mnGaBLWOCGjif08QZ2Uu6w10ZcaTFlI/s1600/DSC_0587.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9VDfxG3cb4Rv8wVrrzXq2DZKCGbCYXsICFCz4vT9Rsh1R_A1bJOeGPQjTaOHyXHNEB2w3I70zausBs7kiPcRdhCgYkkHBhrCdkbQLHL6qQjH0mnGaBLWOCGjif08QZ2Uu6w10ZcaTFlI/s1600/DSC_0587.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9VDfxG3cb4Rv8wVrrzXq2DZKCGbCYXsICFCz4vT9Rsh1R_A1bJOeGPQjTaOHyXHNEB2w3I70zausBs7kiPcRdhCgYkkHBhrCdkbQLHL6qQjH0mnGaBLWOCGjif08QZ2Uu6w10ZcaTFlI/s1600/DSC_0587.jpg" /> </a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
It feels a bit like I've been hibernating over the past few weeks, I haven't done a lot of sewing and absolutely no blogging at all. What better way to come out of my winter sleep than by sharing a spring dress? This is my first Emery dress and I am pretty pleased with it. When I first made it though it was a better fit but now has a bit of room both in the tummy and the back so I'll adjust for this next time.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEil5uug7thw5tKrj5rDlRB1_BZH2UTpVlY3Adb4Dcyk_FPKrZ4c50iixMZW4wafFVVR7whVlrDminGt0EKgic75xfNRY7y5KKf1ampMQevoc9BFzKwG_M_2GB8mnrOinio2uAoQIGmJ-X8/s1600/DSC_0617.jpg" /> </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAdRBH9K08lvBhlH6cz9R6Ryyr78Y2vZ3nHbxYeif7DUZ7fgGdJ6av2goQXWpW6t3DqtH1xWGZClufyhUKGfoITpWHp-aBjlrM0UJRtJsnUsBaHKI1DgOmg8ka-EuFu5ShyphenhyphenF_6zqeJxeU/s1600/DSC_0620.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAdRBH9K08lvBhlH6cz9R6Ryyr78Y2vZ3nHbxYeif7DUZ7fgGdJ6av2goQXWpW6t3DqtH1xWGZClufyhUKGfoITpWHp-aBjlrM0UJRtJsnUsBaHKI1DgOmg8ka-EuFu5ShyphenhyphenF_6zqeJxeU/s1600/DSC_0620.jpg" /></a></div>
My fabric was bought when I was supposed to be sale shopping in January but this was too lovely to leave behind. The colours look much brighter in real life. It isn't exactly following the plan of making a '<a href="http://tadpegs.blogspot.co.uk/2014/11/creating-capsule-wardrobe-part-1.html" target="_blank">capsule wardrobe</a>' either but it does fit my <a href="http://tadpegs.blogspot.co.uk/2014/11/creating-capsule-wardrobe-part-2.html" target="_blank">colour palette</a> and <a href="http://tadpegs.blogspot.co.uk/2014/11/creating-capsule-wardrobe-part-3-sewing.html" target="_blank">flatters my shape</a> so I am sure I will wear it lots.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvLn4BawsCd84_QhlmopCfnygR_Dmtp27Ga3geBvHXH5gkyU2K7eXjI-KHqkAWVpcN4kB9LcfkqhDaTIEs_uPUpnNxE2jJuXVLFBc7jY07GxMuvWcXuDD6_9WCGepB-_mI1WPCWkwaw-g/s1600/DSC_0627.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvLn4BawsCd84_QhlmopCfnygR_Dmtp27Ga3geBvHXH5gkyU2K7eXjI-KHqkAWVpcN4kB9LcfkqhDaTIEs_uPUpnNxE2jJuXVLFBc7jY07GxMuvWcXuDD6_9WCGepB-_mI1WPCWkwaw-g/s1600/DSC_0627.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
Now I just need it to warm up even more out there and I'll be able to start wearing it for real. I have also made a couple of items which fit more into my capsule wardrobe so I'll be sharing those soon. Well happy (almost) spring every one. Zoe xx</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04532444221340513433noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3695408530890678187.post-6776633959591668312015-01-23T14:10:00.001+00:002015-01-23T14:10:24.472+00:00A Fun Dress For a Fun Girl<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiC5lduJdSso2xXDeP572aDQHbh-C7SsYnXOs8F-IUpEy8lmh9yPKdZIbKu4SVuACG47O9dJRVhwtut25o3pI2jhGwNrJAmCp9iSbeN3-fBktEV_z1Fij7m8Yl4jj0IcYWBL_OH4ova0Hc/s1600/DSC_0399.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiC5lduJdSso2xXDeP572aDQHbh-C7SsYnXOs8F-IUpEy8lmh9yPKdZIbKu4SVuACG47O9dJRVhwtut25o3pI2jhGwNrJAmCp9iSbeN3-fBktEV_z1Fij7m8Yl4jj0IcYWBL_OH4ova0Hc/s1600/DSC_0399.jpg" /></a></div>
Just a quick one today to show you this cute dress I made for my niece. The present we gave her for Christmas was something she already owned, bummer, so I offered to make a some clothes instead and she was thrilled by this idea. She saw this fabric and was desperate for it to be a dress so here it is.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQk-aEl98TehawLSxggvm_kFjjsrvYUSFh_nXZFiOCGAdcnqjDx2xeACr0V67qaNM4kgA3IoSnr8gFo5qFnM7KsNazrChg2BvcSwUjNfUtEy-Y-UEMQ823IJ_FodhbRuX8MBS_TrDO4fg/s1600/DSC_0407a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQk-aEl98TehawLSxggvm_kFjjsrvYUSFh_nXZFiOCGAdcnqjDx2xeACr0V67qaNM4kgA3IoSnr8gFo5qFnM7KsNazrChg2BvcSwUjNfUtEy-Y-UEMQ823IJ_FodhbRuX8MBS_TrDO4fg/s1600/DSC_0407a.jpg" /></a></div>
Its a stretchy cotton/lycra fabric that I bought on eBay, I have quite a bit of it so I'll be making my daughter a dress too and maybe myself something for the summer. I think it is perfect for a little girl though because it is so bright and fun. I drafted the pattern myself form a t-shirt of hers and just added a gathered skirt:<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSV37Zvkky6zMH2tlVwYrfVRkiMJZW8fQF8L4kRQpnz7iHMQX2gIUzNOHqAJ2bSYBG3dNL-qP0SIDzanzYgTu4-shIpbdgszFd6mxYxofRF8W14oV5vrvh7OqWEUGs5MW4BSgVyHmD8Fc/s1600/DSC_0402.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSV37Zvkky6zMH2tlVwYrfVRkiMJZW8fQF8L4kRQpnz7iHMQX2gIUzNOHqAJ2bSYBG3dNL-qP0SIDzanzYgTu4-shIpbdgszFd6mxYxofRF8W14oV5vrvh7OqWEUGs5MW4BSgVyHmD8Fc/s1600/DSC_0402.jpg" /></a></div>
I topstitched the hems with pink thread because that is her favourite colour (no surprises there) and she has worn it a few times already. Don't worry she had thick coloured tights and a big knit jumper too so she was nice and warm. I think she'll get lots of wear out of it in the summer too when she can wear it just with flip-flops and sunnies. I'm looking forward to it already! See you soon, Zoe xAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04532444221340513433noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3695408530890678187.post-34023376437819639732015-01-16T12:39:00.000+00:002015-01-16T12:39:36.625+00:00A Flannel Caroline Shirt (from a FREE pattern)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj02J-ujSTQCmxh51KaqjV9GiauLLvaKWhPbQrGDoyZDSQlIanWY_R-8qLATcoj2Re52WkX2ubaJY6yXTDvqVQqDr-2WHCgUlofSAzt_cSCCR0IgO2bW1Fmjada7Jy3GX01AZViILVwxcE/s1600/DSC_0428a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj02J-ujSTQCmxh51KaqjV9GiauLLvaKWhPbQrGDoyZDSQlIanWY_R-8qLATcoj2Re52WkX2ubaJY6yXTDvqVQqDr-2WHCgUlofSAzt_cSCCR0IgO2bW1Fmjada7Jy3GX01AZViILVwxcE/s1600/DSC_0428a.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
Have you seen this FREE pattern yet? The ladies over at <a href="http://www.spitupandstilettos.com/">Spit Up and Stilettos</a> decided to make all their ladies patterns free for download and now sell children patterns. This <a href="http://www.spitupandstilettos.com/product/caroline-shirt/">pattern for the caroline shirt </a>is one such item.<br />
<br />
I have never made a proper shirt before so I am dead chuffed with this one. I found the instructions pretty easy to follow and there were lots of pictures to guide me through.<br />
<br />
Before I tell you my mistakes I wanted to say this, Lauren from Spit up and Stilettos was SO helpful. When I was constructing the sleeves I couldn't find the cuff opening marked on the pattern so I cut it where the pleat was marked, this was the wrong place clearly so my cuffs open the wrong way around. I e-mailed Lauren to let her know it wasn't marked and she updated the pdf document straight away and apologised for the error. I was very impressed. I'll be shopping from them for some kids patterns at some point soon.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpDCGH3RTlWoU5Wu5vVf33ZSvqNX_V6ktyyhUf9vnh8UOc1k1K3Xyw5DvjPa3NQUIOgAoGyAma6hNJuvSAoJMKPLaQIGpUV8VrymuR9VTrz1ahRKgcfsvUmkLDEj3PuLFysTDqNwE1VaA/s1600/DSC_0430.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpDCGH3RTlWoU5Wu5vVf33ZSvqNX_V6ktyyhUf9vnh8UOc1k1K3Xyw5DvjPa3NQUIOgAoGyAma6hNJuvSAoJMKPLaQIGpUV8VrymuR9VTrz1ahRKgcfsvUmkLDEj3PuLFysTDqNwE1VaA/s1600/DSC_0430.jpg" /></a></div>
The only change I made to the pattern was to not sew all the way down the back pleat, I preferred it to be extra baggy to be extra comfy and casual. I think this shirt would be great in chambray too, you know I love me a chambray shirt!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEif52gpCPavepymk_vQHDRKtMsPxdoiHixaUy5E-a1VfckIBwYqOuVVeMFohmUadFTApcTxo2OwcAjU4DcKy_akBVV0Vkrauv7HaU5-zLji94U3BYR2rDAfAsjHhyphenhyphenfiZBZzd4DQFRp9ay0/s1600/DSC_0426.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEif52gpCPavepymk_vQHDRKtMsPxdoiHixaUy5E-a1VfckIBwYqOuVVeMFohmUadFTApcTxo2OwcAjU4DcKy_akBVV0Vkrauv7HaU5-zLji94U3BYR2rDAfAsjHhyphenhyphenfiZBZzd4DQFRp9ay0/s1600/DSC_0426.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
This shirt definitely ticks the 'casual tops' box that I'm trying to fill. It is probably one of the last few Autumn/Winter makes I'll be making for this season though. Possibly one more dress to come. I know it is still cold outside but I want to get started with some spring sewing so I have some clothes ready in time!<br />
<br />
I'll be chatting about spring sewing plans soon. See you then. Zoe xAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04532444221340513433noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3695408530890678187.post-28110540161647949982015-01-09T14:07:00.003+00:002015-01-09T14:07:11.125+00:00Capsule Wardrobe // Let's Get Serious and Have a Clear Out<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAm0KvfCqSuyM_Q70Ijk2QUwvySZBrhskfIOs1H6AM-_1sRT3hFj3e1Pv8lzhKqFkQSJkSkZ-YZ-667ZL3pvt4p54pAmSYkyFw6boK2YsAaw5J0FTllVMJ1l1hJcN99R2m19FJmB6AeBA/s1600/DSC_0592.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAm0KvfCqSuyM_Q70Ijk2QUwvySZBrhskfIOs1H6AM-_1sRT3hFj3e1Pv8lzhKqFkQSJkSkZ-YZ-667ZL3pvt4p54pAmSYkyFw6boK2YsAaw5J0FTllVMJ1l1hJcN99R2m19FJmB6AeBA/s1600/DSC_0592.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
If you're serious about creating a capsule wardrobe there is one vital step that will get you started. The wardrobe clear out. ARGHHHH the thought of it fills me with dread. I really don't enjoy this process but I know it is necessary if I want to have a more simple approach to clothes (and to keep sewing new ones). I must make space for them somehow. So once you have thought about your <a href="http://tadpegs.blogspot.co.uk/2014/12/capsule-wardrobe-part-5-what-should-i.html">capsule wardrobe style guidelines</a> then a clear out is what you need. This week I actually went for it and ruthlessly cleared out my wardrobe. If you're about to take this dreaded step then here are my tips to get you started.<br />
<br />
<b>1. Take everything out</b><br />
I know that this can make a huge amount of mess but I have recently realised this is the best way to start. I used to go through each item making a choice one by one. This meant that by the time I had got rid of about 5 items I wasn't so ruthless any more and found excuses to keep things (yes I know - I sound like a hoarder). By taking out everything and only putting back what you want to keep you are much more likely to have a proper purge.<br />
<br />
<b>2. Put back in the items you LOVE</b><br />
Ignore your capsule wardrobe guidelines for a moment and put back the items you love. Hopefully these will be similar to the rules you came up with any way, if not then you might want to rethink some of your guidelines. Once your 'love' items are back in decide if your guidelines are right or if they need tweaking a little.<br />
<br />
<b>3. Put back any 'go with anything' items</b><br />
You know the kind. The white t-shirts, the jeans, that skirt that you wear all through the summer because it is just so versatile. These items are your basics and you probably have worn them all lots in the last year. If you have loads of these then you might want to narrow it down a little. Keep the ones that are in good condition, those that still fit you and try to keep a mix of tops, bottoms and dresses - no big deal if you can't though, it'll help you decide what to sew next.<br />
<br />
<b>4. Decide on some things you definitely DON'T want to keep</b><br />
By this point some things left in your pile to sort will cry out to be thrown away (well given to a charity shop any way). This part is simple, get a big back and put them it it ready to take the next chance you get.<br />
<br />
<b>5. Make a plan for all the 'maybes'</b><br />
There will be a few things left that you can't decide what to do with. Hopefully if you have a bit of sewing practise under your belt you will see potential for what you could make with some of them but be realistic about what you will actually do. Keep these items near your sewing machine ready for next time you can't decide what to work on. For the rest pop them in a box up the loft, if you really miss something then you can get it out. Whatever is left in the box after a year can be taken down to the charity shop too.<br />
<br />
So are you going to do it? It is a great way to start the new year and has made me feel like I have more things to wear because I can see it all properly when I open the wardrobe doors. Do you have any other tips you'd add? It's always good to know how other people do it. Let me know. Zoe x<br />
<b><br /></b>
<br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04532444221340513433noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3695408530890678187.post-62329784432543270962015-01-06T09:07:00.001+00:002015-01-06T09:07:38.522+00:00The Christmas Bow Ties<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyTZb0zhyFdcBBJbz4nH8lKbsn4KRvDps-j7etkJO1Y0etIx_HdAauj0escDv0af9HSbZGU189ZJSwkM-4pbojcDDdLwZpbkO9jM_1X6_tS0fJN06Jp4rTaCuZZ44AlngIX-fv9Qpk2no/s1600/photo.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyTZb0zhyFdcBBJbz4nH8lKbsn4KRvDps-j7etkJO1Y0etIx_HdAauj0escDv0af9HSbZGU189ZJSwkM-4pbojcDDdLwZpbkO9jM_1X6_tS0fJN06Jp4rTaCuZZ44AlngIX-fv9Qpk2no/s1600/photo.JPG" height="897" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
When I made <a href="http://tadpegs.blogspot.co.uk/2014/11/christmas-dresses-made-for-two.html">the two sparkly dresses </a>I mentioned that I might make some bow ties to match for my sons. Well I only managed to do this on December 23rd so this is the first chance I have had to blog them. They looked really cute on both my boys but the younger son, age 2, took it off after about 30 seconds because it was itching his chin, I can't blame him but it means there is no photo of him actually wearing it. You'll have to accept a photo of my rather dashing older son:</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiv2KBaRYJeCcYNMCMm7ou1ARybzKxXLVjmriMoupHNFcVe00sdycZykQYofxwHkK_aGweKF5944feAx3w-Ix6loA86dg_YS2hWFKBKdIvkuVzSPY00a3f7vchMJ3tcbhX-i2Mn2O7qc3A/s1600/DSC_0167.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiv2KBaRYJeCcYNMCMm7ou1ARybzKxXLVjmriMoupHNFcVe00sdycZykQYofxwHkK_aGweKF5944feAx3w-Ix6loA86dg_YS2hWFKBKdIvkuVzSPY00a3f7vchMJ3tcbhX-i2Mn2O7qc3A/s1600/DSC_0167.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Well I am a little biased but I thought he looked fabulous. I improvised how to make these but it was very similar to the method used for <a href="http://www.hannahinthehouse.com/diy-tutorial-how-to-make-a-velcro-bow-tie/">these cat bow ties </a>if you fancy making some yourself. I think I may just make some for our cat next too (or is that a little too far?).</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIQicmVdhKNogOf7yKxDnDB-RBknEwYSdmwEnHmFzvqXoRl9I7cGf8ZbicTCeOSGwnj3ySKkfCnnH0YzaWZ1sFM9TcuA4uIyv32yqeh7YgQz4Rw6XMY_1rmMZ6odPckXyScyTuRQ5Y1Bo/s1600/DSC_0169.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIQicmVdhKNogOf7yKxDnDB-RBknEwYSdmwEnHmFzvqXoRl9I7cGf8ZbicTCeOSGwnj3ySKkfCnnH0YzaWZ1sFM9TcuA4uIyv32yqeh7YgQz4Rw6XMY_1rmMZ6odPckXyScyTuRQ5Y1Bo/s1600/DSC_0169.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Any way I hope you had a really lovely Christmas and NYE. I'll be back on friday to continue the capsule wardrobe series. See ya later, Zoe x</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04532444221340513433noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3695408530890678187.post-84412158752703221902014-12-30T15:01:00.000+00:002014-12-30T15:04:29.558+00:004 Goals for 2015<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMvCiS7KuikTp_WaYhN25RJ6Nc-1q7bRZJux139-jBkAhtcrMFsaqx2YeshVkUlCINayWK1cuXrCzy1h5F4IAyea1WHMTGOibcKtqM7fg-Gh68ETDSF1PII-ecr3cfH2s8dLtXMDGbD0o/s1600/DSC_0346640.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMvCiS7KuikTp_WaYhN25RJ6Nc-1q7bRZJux139-jBkAhtcrMFsaqx2YeshVkUlCINayWK1cuXrCzy1h5F4IAyea1WHMTGOibcKtqM7fg-Gh68ETDSF1PII-ecr3cfH2s8dLtXMDGbD0o/s1600/DSC_0346640.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
I know you have probably seen posts like this popping up all over the net this week. It's possible you're bored of them (I know that feeling too) but for me as a goal-orientated person this is an important part of setting goals, sharing them with some one else. You lucky people! <a href="http://tadpegs.blogspot.co.uk/2013/12/5-new-year-goals-for-2014.html">Last year I did the same</a> and I found it so helpful. I didn't keep to all of them as well as I would have liked but I am really proud of what I did achieve in 2014 so I am starting 2015 with the same mindset. Here are my goals for the upcoming 12 months:<br />
<br />
<b>Sew More Basics</b><br />
Last year I set the goal to sew 1 item of clothing per month, I easily achieved this and more and I plan to continue sewing at a similar rate. However I made quite a few fun items and not so many practical ones. In December I tried to work out the gaps in my wardrobe and <a href="http://tadpegs.blogspot.co.uk/search/label/Capsule%20Wardrobe">shared some tips for doing the same.</a> In order to actually make these items I plan to make 2 'every day' items for every 'special' item I sew. The aim is balance and I hope this ratio will be about right.<br />
<br />
<b>Sew More For Others</b><br />
Until near the end of 2014 I hadn't really made any clothes for others. Then I made my daughter her <a href="http://tadpegs.blogspot.co.uk/2014/11/christmas-dresses-made-for-two.html">sparkly christmas dress</a> and was really pleased with it. It cost almost nothing since I was using fabric I had already and was quick and easy to put together. I'd like to sew more clothes for her and possibly my sons too. My goal here is to make at least one thing for someone else per month.<br />
<br />
<b>Blog Once Per Week</b><br />
In my goals for 2014 I planned to blog 2-3 times per week. For the first few months this was easy. Then I started a new job so had to settle for 2 each week. By the Autumn though I was struggling with this number and only managed once in many of those weeks. Since I want to keep the blog interested and avoid posting for posting sake I aim to this year post once per week unless there is something extra special I want to squeeze in.<br />
<br />
<b>Cook 1 New Recipe Per Week</b><br />
<div>
I've also found over the last couple of years I have become very lazy when it comes to cooking. I cook fairly healthily for my family but I tend to stick to the same 10 or so recipes. This year I want to go back to trying a few new things and introducing new flavours to my children. I won't be blogging about this regularly but I may occasionally share pictures on my favourite new recipe finds on instagram. So if you are interested follow me there.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I also want to say a big thank you to those of you who have been reading Tadpegs this year. I love sharing about my makes but it is extra special to know that people are reading it, commenting, sharing and enjoying it too. Here's to a fun and busy 2015! Zoe</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04532444221340513433noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3695408530890678187.post-71881262481159602132014-12-16T12:36:00.001+00:002014-12-16T12:36:15.732+00:00A Gingerbread Village<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2ifUJvY3ixThID4bGUK5Ayv_jP0lYLuvvmKVDXAeaOwJe-48jUenhPCOFSHF2F0ZFoH9uSoWoTbBCrcAY8_HJPc7DllxO-5kpazmz-koTGfeQWYxmAbGk2NUxa3koHIk947MwdLHJ59I/s1600/DSC_0859.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2ifUJvY3ixThID4bGUK5Ayv_jP0lYLuvvmKVDXAeaOwJe-48jUenhPCOFSHF2F0ZFoH9uSoWoTbBCrcAY8_HJPc7DllxO-5kpazmz-koTGfeQWYxmAbGk2NUxa3koHIk947MwdLHJ59I/s1600/DSC_0859.jpg" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQ5AdJH_gj2OZbJtGoM2EtfUp6omeke76TQ0j84Os8FOmFgZ8UddKPftxbpFqf9_-nPDGcQEMTOvAbVIjz-8_M795Z8Sq4H6PPp6PEAee7gAHeCDjCrUhhWpdwn7ht6dHu4qKenY4SXjI/s1600/DSC_0864.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; display: inline !important; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQ5AdJH_gj2OZbJtGoM2EtfUp6omeke76TQ0j84Os8FOmFgZ8UddKPftxbpFqf9_-nPDGcQEMTOvAbVIjz-8_M795Z8Sq4H6PPp6PEAee7gAHeCDjCrUhhWpdwn7ht6dHu4qKenY4SXjI/s1600/DSC_0864.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
When it comes to Christmas time one of my favourite things to do is make a Gingerbread house. You can see <a href="http://tadpegs.blogspot.co.uk/2013/12/stitched-up-gingerbread-house.html">last years 'Stitched up' house here</a> and <a href="http://tadpegs.blogspot.co.uk/2013/12/throwback-thursday-christmas-ginger.html">two other houses I made here</a>. Each year I like to try something a little different. This year I went a step further and made an entire gingerbread street. Although you could argue that this is actually a much easier approach because it skips the 'construction' step which is where most people fail.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6bt-v9nJe243YnbhOEC5CoQonhBT5DHcRa7S1rUtTHpxAIn9B9IRKyR3aAfveaMMq69HjFzu8Q4xsy_-0jibtzrFiLpOBnzod0WTbg-NugucHAGQ-_t9qjGoQ6gbvh7rfzZ8xuAqUxro/s1600/DSC_0863a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; display: inline !important; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6bt-v9nJe243YnbhOEC5CoQonhBT5DHcRa7S1rUtTHpxAIn9B9IRKyR3aAfveaMMq69HjFzu8Q4xsy_-0jibtzrFiLpOBnzod0WTbg-NugucHAGQ-_t9qjGoQ6gbvh7rfzZ8xuAqUxro/s1600/DSC_0863a.jpg" /></a><br />
<br />
Each 'house' is decorated with piped royal icing, silver ball and some holly and berry sprinkles. I like to go with the flow once I start piping and each house is a little different to the one before. Once I had piped each house we displayed them on a shelf in the living room. We are planning to redecorate in the living room any way next year so I took everything off a shelf and spray painted it white (this again is something I was going to do any way, I wouldn't repaint furniture just for a gingerbread house, I'm not THAT crazy.) It made the perfect setting for the scene.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDrq4CKsj9T4F4EsfxDoaa9rTyJjYxm0O7_rIz1pVR_g1JnvIfz6o8hyphenhyphenLdKzwOeb60AaFhDGJote8HVSSx7q-SnGBAxsiIskAcU_5F4374v7sndP9QiV3oZ4G3OYWkos4iIanSPxEqmUU/s1600/DSC_0873.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDrq4CKsj9T4F4EsfxDoaa9rTyJjYxm0O7_rIz1pVR_g1JnvIfz6o8hyphenhyphenLdKzwOeb60AaFhDGJote8HVSSx7q-SnGBAxsiIskAcU_5F4374v7sndP9QiV3oZ4G3OYWkos4iIanSPxEqmUU/s1600/DSC_0873.jpg" /></a></div>
The ginger bread houses on their own were really cute but I decided to add some colour with the paper trees. Then I thought I'd go all out and made the snowflake and pom pom garlands to make it a perfect white Christmas. It's a great addition to the Christmas decor and hardly cost me anything, we had the ingredients int he cupboards already, I used yarn and paper we already had for the garlands and even the spray paint had been sitting around waiting to paint these shelves for about a year. The only thing I bought was the holly and berry decorations. Bargain.<br />
<br />
Now I know I said that I would share last week some capsule wardrobe outfit ideas but I came across 2 problems with this. Firstly I was distracted by all the christmas activity going on and I would be lying if I said this gingerbread street wasn't part of that. Secondly when I was writing the post it was really boring. I mean so boring I didn't even know what to say. Nobody wants to read boring blogs so I decided to give up on that post idea. I will be writing more about capsule wardrobes in the new year but for now I will just be doing a couple of christmassy posts and taking it easy for a few weeks.<br />
<br />
I hope you're starting to feel the good Christmassy vibes too. Do you do a gingerbread house? I'd love to see. Zoe xx<br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04532444221340513433noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3695408530890678187.post-78285219107171081342014-12-05T13:52:00.001+00:002014-12-05T13:52:54.131+00:00Ooo-la-la Its Another Plantain Tee<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgn4EEV9uAD-mq2ifLlKINKNFFmFJS9vbbijJfyF_hGEO0sOLc2YAoershgGGmpRx7hP0FKJKM-Gc4VlJM5J1y1UfgrE4XQPcviuI7TWvE65kf2fi549St6xpSPrhXUCc6w3pGujntD-Jo/s1600/DSC_0728.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgn4EEV9uAD-mq2ifLlKINKNFFmFJS9vbbijJfyF_hGEO0sOLc2YAoershgGGmpRx7hP0FKJKM-Gc4VlJM5J1y1UfgrE4XQPcviuI7TWvE65kf2fi549St6xpSPrhXUCc6w3pGujntD-Jo/s1600/DSC_0728.jpg" /></a></div>
If you've been following along with my <a href="http://tadpegs.blogspot.co.uk/">capsule wardrobe series</a> you'll know what I am in need of a few more basic tops. I have already got <a href="http://tadpegs.blogspot.co.uk/2014/09/owop-and-my-second-plaintain-tee.html">a stripy plantain tee</a> and <a href="http://tadpegs.blogspot.co.uk/2014/08/a-simple-stripey-summer-dress-just-as.html">a stripy plantain dress</a> (made from the same fabric) but I just couldn't help but make another. Firstly I had some fabric left over so it was basically free. Secondly I love the simplicity of this pattern. Thirdly the pattern is free too so its a totally free top. Winner.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsC6lDqAh8miyxR_V0-lSf2cPf4oXXbrStBd8SbsudyaNbKDJJE7uA3RUAhvo0yDNDS1BU5J8SfrFr_4LWrqNnYVFAEhoe3KBv69JAp9Nu8Z6Z_9gOOKphIedcdiXnKOJaTDROTr6U2zI/s1600/DSC_0724.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsC6lDqAh8miyxR_V0-lSf2cPf4oXXbrStBd8SbsudyaNbKDJJE7uA3RUAhvo0yDNDS1BU5J8SfrFr_4LWrqNnYVFAEhoe3KBv69JAp9Nu8Z6Z_9gOOKphIedcdiXnKOJaTDROTr6U2zI/s1600/DSC_0724.jpg" /></a></div>
I also fancied looking a little stereotypically french. Well actually that is just a by-product of wearing stripes and red lipstick with my new haircut. I only had it chopped 6 days ago and it already looks like it has grown an inch, my crazy hair.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDSfQkxnjEnfPoEvY-FyILHMrm3h3YJ8aTon8FGP2aLSac0qgTtQK652CAQkCPhZopakEkHU0uVUmU3MtgI2BCtwI9nCylfTePXCF14INSIZJgnSIH3XGiHbp5E4pYUQce-XD9YCHDEDU/s1600/DSC_0721.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDSfQkxnjEnfPoEvY-FyILHMrm3h3YJ8aTon8FGP2aLSac0qgTtQK652CAQkCPhZopakEkHU0uVUmU3MtgI2BCtwI9nCylfTePXCF14INSIZJgnSIH3XGiHbp5E4pYUQce-XD9YCHDEDU/s1600/DSC_0721.jpg" /></a></div>
So any way, there you have it, one more stripy plantain tee. See you next time, Zoe xAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04532444221340513433noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3695408530890678187.post-50612760917983923482014-12-02T12:56:00.001+00:002014-12-02T12:56:27.678+00:00Capsule Wardrobe Part 5 // What Should I Sew Next?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZeJW6BNR4vtXuV_g1lZYRdy_zr09KW4QHDmWwhqcih1RuL-yMsh8lqv7V_Iy-GfECeVNZJPqgOfX7SouH3h_susf3Wugah5opAc-s1UszOsR2V_qZAKLMcuTq4FpM_RDVxiEGZbChh9k/s1600/capsule-wardrobe1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZeJW6BNR4vtXuV_g1lZYRdy_zr09KW4QHDmWwhqcih1RuL-yMsh8lqv7V_Iy-GfECeVNZJPqgOfX7SouH3h_susf3Wugah5opAc-s1UszOsR2V_qZAKLMcuTq4FpM_RDVxiEGZbChh9k/s1600/capsule-wardrobe1.jpg" height="512" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Welcome back to the capsule wardrobe series, we are nearly there! We've had a think about what <a href="http://tadpegs.blogspot.co.uk/2014/11/creating-capsule-wardrobe-part-3-sewing.html">works well on your body</a>, <a href="http://tadpegs.blogspot.co.uk/2014/11/creating-capsule-wardrobe-part-2.html">what colours you like</a> and <a href="http://tadpegs.blogspot.co.uk/2014/11/capsule-wardrobe-part-4-sewing-for-your.html">which clothes fit your lifestyle</a>. Now it is time to take stock of what you've already got and figure out the gaps in your wardrobe.<br />
<br />
<b>Make a List</b><br />
I have made a visual list of all the things that I consider part of my capsule wardrobe already. I had lots of fun making this collage of them for you too! But obviously you can achieve the same goal by just writing a list of what you have. It is probably a good idea when you do this to split your list into a few groups - it will make it easier to work out where your gaps are. Tops and bottoms should go into separate groups and have another group for dresses (and playsuits and jumpsuits can squeeze into this group too). Then you can have other groups of accessories, shoes, outer layers etc as necessary.<br />
<br />
I have included 3 items that are not handmade, I don't see the point in excluding 'ready to wear' clothes that fit perfectly into your capsule wardrobe. We don't want to be wasteful just for the sake of it, plus most of these ideas apply to RTW clothes just as much as handmade ones. When they get to a stage where they don't fit, have too many holes or are unwearable for some other reason though I probably will replace them by making a new version. That said I can't knit (yet) so all my cardigans will be bought from the shop for the foreseeable future. This is what I have so far:<br />
<br />
<b>Tops</b><br />
<a href="http://tadpegs.blogspot.co.uk/2014/09/owop-and-my-second-plaintain-tee.html">Stripey Plantain Tee</a>*<br />
<a href="http://tadpegs.blogspot.co.uk/2014/05/how-to-make-peplum-top-from-any-fitted.html">Gingham Peplum Top</a><br />
<a href="http://tadpegs.blogspot.co.uk/2014/05/my-mimi-blouse.html">Mini Cherry Mimi Blouse</a><br />
Chambray Shirt (RTW)*<br />
Red Cardigan (RTW)*<br />
<br />
<b>Bottoms</b><br />
<a href="http://tadpegs.blogspot.co.uk/2014/10/tartan-circle-mini-skirt.html">Tartan Circle Skirt</a><br />
<a href="http://tadpegs.blogspot.co.uk/2014/10/denim-delphine.html">Denim Delphine Skirt</a>*<br />
<a href="http://tadpegs.blogspot.co.uk/2014/08/full-midi-circle-skirt-love-affair.html">Red Circle Skirt</a><br />
Jeans (RTW)*<br />
<br />
<b>Dresses (and a playsuit)</b><br />
<a href="http://tadpegs.blogspot.co.uk/2014/06/an-autumnal-lilou-dress-even-though.html">Tartan Lilou Dress</a><br />
<a href="http://tadpegs.blogspot.co.uk/2014/10/lets-all-jump-for-holly-jumpsuit.html">Tartan Holly Playsuit</a><br />
Stripey Plantain Dress*<br />
<br />
I have a couple of other handmade items I could add into the mix (i.e <a href="http://tadpegs.blogspot.co.uk/2014/03/elisalex-take-2-chambray-dress-with.html">my chambray dress</a> and my <a href="http://tadpegs.blogspot.co.uk/2014/05/my-first-ever-circle-skirt.html">half circle skirt</a>) but if I am truthful I don't wear these very often because they need ironing every 5 minutes. They're still in my wardrobe for now but mostly go unworn. This is something to think about when you choose your fabrics.<br />
<br />
<b>Pattern vs Plain</b><br />
For a capsule wardrobe to work we need to have a good mix of pattern and plain. I have starred all the items on my list that I consider to be a basic, i.e they're made from a plain or relatively plain pattern. About half of my list is in this category so this works well for doing lot's of mixing and matching. Have a look at your list and see what you have, lots of pattern? All plain? Maybe only few 'basics'? Think about what you need more of.<br />
<br />
<b>What do you need more of?</b><br />
Now that you have written your list, grouped them and figured out if you need more pattern or plain it is much easier to see where the gaps in your wardrobe are. My groups are fairly even (I've been working on this for a while) and I have quite a few basics and non-basics to add some interest. But I know for sure that I need some more tops. I normally only wear a top once before washing it but my bottoms I will wear a couple of times so they last much longer (this is normal right?). So for now I need to make a few more tops and then maybe a basic dress or two. What about you? What do you need to make next?<br />
<br />
Next week I'll have a look at some ways to mix and match what you have got to make new outfits. See you then. ZoeAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04532444221340513433noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3695408530890678187.post-73374432083330398932014-11-28T09:51:00.001+00:002014-11-28T09:51:06.222+00:00Christmas Dresses Made For Two<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgx9JUKx5u9j2soTbPaEU2UMcNISBDdjgpamBO_uKNeg0erbwIjZQPrzeBUKq85-K9jVo_-rXToIwbZtvLwJRZWIOAJvS9xYqg7I826x63IlS3NB8cv1MxsHl8a81i9fR7sGuEvNTbselM/s1600/christmas-dress-8.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; display: inline !important; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgx9JUKx5u9j2soTbPaEU2UMcNISBDdjgpamBO_uKNeg0erbwIjZQPrzeBUKq85-K9jVo_-rXToIwbZtvLwJRZWIOAJvS9xYqg7I826x63IlS3NB8cv1MxsHl8a81i9fR7sGuEvNTbselM/s1600/christmas-dress-8.jpg" /></a><br />
<br />
Happy Christmas!<br />
<br />
Too early? Well I have no problem with preparing for Christmas in November. In fact I originally planned to make this dress in October but then my fabric took a little while to arrive and then I had tonsillitis. I missed the deadline for the <a href="http://byhandlondon.com/blogs/by-hand-london/15655956-competition-time-patternhackathon">By Hand London's Hackathon </a>but decided to hack-along any way.<br />
<br />
So let me start with my dress:<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhi54uCKtonAbMVgm1Fgg3Akac2iNI9_L_zyxNrCYRkeziobjDLjoT9cBAol6MYeY68LXozQo_Re-Cdzb_32ZypUblINOMJsJQPE7FrvVe2OvqQbNqHwIRnTU6-UJvk3vqkTbtnBBuibz0/s1600/christmas-dress.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhi54uCKtonAbMVgm1Fgg3Akac2iNI9_L_zyxNrCYRkeziobjDLjoT9cBAol6MYeY68LXozQo_Re-Cdzb_32ZypUblINOMJsJQPE7FrvVe2OvqQbNqHwIRnTU6-UJvk3vqkTbtnBBuibz0/s1600/christmas-dress.jpg" height="600" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIrr02tQe5v-H-Zah84sQNkQz8nNr6uLeVfwPWNobP0r-zCVjY7beJBd5WpeSfEUSawhWwNsMtkrRYTqDkMLsQ2_NDOXgHzuBt6Gq80Di6Uf3_n9oNGzln0NQGIWZ2BbTcD1Vs24RTuiI/s1600/christmas-dress-3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIrr02tQe5v-H-Zah84sQNkQz8nNr6uLeVfwPWNobP0r-zCVjY7beJBd5WpeSfEUSawhWwNsMtkrRYTqDkMLsQ2_NDOXgHzuBt6Gq80Di6Uf3_n9oNGzln0NQGIWZ2BbTcD1Vs24RTuiI/s1600/christmas-dress-3.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
The bodice is the <a href="http://byhandlondon.com/products/holly-jumpsuit">holly jumpsuit</a> bodice pattern. I loved the fit of this pattern on <a href="http://tadpegs.blogspot.co.uk/2014/10/lets-all-jump-for-holly-jumpsuit.html">my tartan playsuit</a>, flattering but not too tight and thought it would be perfect with a skirt for Christmas. I lost a little weight when I was ill so it's actually a little looser than I thought but it's pretty good. I probably need the extra space for Christmas Turkey any way.<br />
<br />
I have fully lined the bodice, partly because the sequin fabric was quite itchy but also because it was a little see-through. I basically used <a href="http://byhandlondon.com/blogs/sew-alongs/11628653-elisalex-dress-sewalong-3-assembling-the-bodice-with-sleeves">this method for constructing</a> the dress with the full lining. I lined with the viscose-rayon that I have made the skirt from. I loved working with this fabric, it has a lovely drapey and soft feel and it was pretty easy to work with. I wouldn't recommend it for a total beginner but if you are looking for something to sew with after a bit of practice with cotton it would be a good way to go.<br />
<br />
The skirt is a full circle skirt so, of course, it is perfect for spinning:<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDzYnlnYqm_Apm3Jj62K5pKiv_GUqDnGO8gRJONyQ3RPUQ2cUDzR7nkiN5o-4ELiGnIGpNFWbgJh1Pf0CMTZoPKbSlUgUw8jaF3mG5cmgriD_9pKnF9Q9UMmFwki-ZH9epvsk6m38HVig/s1600/christmas-dress1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDzYnlnYqm_Apm3Jj62K5pKiv_GUqDnGO8gRJONyQ3RPUQ2cUDzR7nkiN5o-4ELiGnIGpNFWbgJh1Pf0CMTZoPKbSlUgUw8jaF3mG5cmgriD_9pKnF9Q9UMmFwki-ZH9epvsk6m38HVig/s1600/christmas-dress1.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFdqCZdrP4J3tC-x2egTs1Rwn3oFvPyMQx5CE8UnzPRHSy6biV4IUivNnyeZXNLZOV5gfEkByyutMaiDvT5f7hX9lfMxzqh9FF4Qxkk6s0wcYcTN-3CAHLG3HKOMh4S4ThlnnZjY1Ww-0/s1600/christmas-dress-4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFdqCZdrP4J3tC-x2egTs1Rwn3oFvPyMQx5CE8UnzPRHSy6biV4IUivNnyeZXNLZOV5gfEkByyutMaiDvT5f7hX9lfMxzqh9FF4Qxkk6s0wcYcTN-3CAHLG3HKOMh4S4ThlnnZjY1Ww-0/s1600/christmas-dress-4.jpg" /></a></div>
And my daughter loved the spinning part too. So that brings me to her dress. I only bought 1m of the sequin fabric but it was more than enough to make the bodice and sleeves for mine and a mini bodice for a 3 year old. She has been so excited about this dress and I let her help me cut out the pattern pieces and do some of the sewing. Well I let her press down on the peddle while I guided the fabric through the machine but she thought she had made it all. Every one was happy.<br />
<br />
Her dress bodice is from a book on making children's clothes that I've had for ages but not used much. The skirt is a half circle skirt, still good for spinning even if not quite as good as a full circle.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLmBV6HNodBnXvMmEJsEq3Rt5NKlNS88UXX-UrAlCrHc-OHVVIOn5PWNooe95LRF4ebu78zSnOkc11xjQgcRsoP7XuRTxfhuS1wQE-J6ErwXpPp1l7I6jq1kAdxo_flz5K8pwy9KenCWE/s1600/christmas-dress-5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLmBV6HNodBnXvMmEJsEq3Rt5NKlNS88UXX-UrAlCrHc-OHVVIOn5PWNooe95LRF4ebu78zSnOkc11xjQgcRsoP7XuRTxfhuS1wQE-J6ErwXpPp1l7I6jq1kAdxo_flz5K8pwy9KenCWE/s1600/christmas-dress-5.jpg" /></a></div>
I also added a little flower to the waistband of her dress and hers doesn't have sleeves. I wanted it to be similar but not exactly the same. Now I just need to get her some sparkly shoes to wear with it.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjM9xoUBeYfH-4CPhUX7yyPIzEJY53d6w8xqKHBaDrXTXPYXnX_6aAjiF3_gkGbcb65WZdM372RAEAuPASb9VYV9Gkq9XP79ODx86792myRujurdZ3GwnR8LDxjsM7obiOz7gzIOEuOz2E/s1600/christmas-dress-7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjM9xoUBeYfH-4CPhUX7yyPIzEJY53d6w8xqKHBaDrXTXPYXnX_6aAjiF3_gkGbcb65WZdM372RAEAuPASb9VYV9Gkq9XP79ODx86792myRujurdZ3GwnR8LDxjsM7obiOz7gzIOEuOz2E/s1600/christmas-dress-7.jpg" /> </a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjbmAQkca4C4dbyCq8vq09lYKJAFjikVQEmbksRgiqynwbwIq1gCMosbxQBgSD96PVFGBX4mIeUip1jRw-8Jc6D7cHewn2UK0AepUME2ldTo6pwmJZJkrh5jbl23Zw9AD3JUptSPEamdY/s1600/christmas-dress-6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjbmAQkca4C4dbyCq8vq09lYKJAFjikVQEmbksRgiqynwbwIq1gCMosbxQBgSD96PVFGBX4mIeUip1jRw-8Jc6D7cHewn2UK0AepUME2ldTo6pwmJZJkrh5jbl23Zw9AD3JUptSPEamdY/s1600/christmas-dress-6.jpg" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
So that is two dresses made ready to wear at Christmas. It was also a goal of mine to make something sparkly after <a href="http://tadpegs.blogspot.co.uk/2014/06/my-lessons-from-me-made-may.html">Me-Made-May</a> so I can tick another thing of that list too. </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
I have a very small amount of the sequin fabric left and my sons want me to make them sparkly bow ties, what do you think - will it be too much? Well obviously I'll show you if I do. Happy Christmas! Hehe. Zoe x</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04532444221340513433noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3695408530890678187.post-74406974416494268692014-11-25T20:06:00.000+00:002014-11-25T20:06:48.885+00:00Capsule Wardrobe Part 4: Sewing For Your Lifestyle<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpRPTwzaFyWiqKxx2QcSRn1AOAD27kg57QgocISyU5-dmSont9ImV7qxzvFNtxL9_hsAWki3gkfpsAW7P0F-Eu4luVpBpor-wk0stRZnq0aMdEQWirrPgXzMy2m12lc_QLJRRciAyqtFU/s1600/DSC_0592.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpRPTwzaFyWiqKxx2QcSRn1AOAD27kg57QgocISyU5-dmSont9ImV7qxzvFNtxL9_hsAWki3gkfpsAW7P0F-Eu4luVpBpor-wk0stRZnq0aMdEQWirrPgXzMy2m12lc_QLJRRciAyqtFU/s1600/DSC_0592.jpg" /></a></div>
It's all very well thinking through a few style guidelines to do with what shapes look good on your body. But let us be honest here, we aren't all living a lifestyle of a celebrity. One where we one of our main aims with clothes is to look good and extend our personal 'brand' through our fashion choices. Most of us have other factors to consider when we make (or buy) our clothes.<br />
<br />
For instance, you're a school teacher. On your feet a lot, bending down regularly and sticky hands follow you around all day. Full skirts maybe your thing but not so good in the workplace.<br />
<br />
For instance, you're a stay at home mum who spends most of your time crawling around on the floor playing with your toddler or cleaning up after them. Not to mention needing momentary boob access to feed your screaming baby so dresses are off the list at the moment. <br />
<br />
For instance, you have about 5 minutes to get dress in the morning before you rush off to catch a train. The idea of a capsule wardrobe is very appealing and you know that pencil skirts are great for your figure but they just don't allow you to run fast enough to get that train.<br />
<br />
Not exactly glamtastic all day every day. But that's life. At least for us normal people.*<br />
<br />
So you've got some ideas about what colours to wear and what styles look good but it'd clearly important to think about which clothes will actually be useful in your wardrobe, otherwise you're talking about making a bunch of stuff that never gets worn which defeats the point of what we were aiming for.<br />
<br />
Have a think about your lifestyle. Are you outside all day? Do you need to look smart for work? Do you do lots of physical activity in your typical day? Do you mostly dress in casual clothes?<br />
<br />
For me life should all be about the casual. To be honest I don't really enjoy wearing really casual clothes. Jeans, t-shirt and jumper just don't really do it for me. I try to smarten it up a little by either wearing a skirt with my t-shirt or a slightly more fancy top with my jeans. This is actually a great way to approach the capsule wardrobe. Lot's of separates, some smart and some casual, some plain and some patterned so you can mix them all up to get a casual outfit when you fancy and a smarter one when you need it.<br />
<br />
Does your lifestyle require more casual or smart? This is the crux of the matter when we talk about sewing for your lifestyle. Take a look at your colour palette and your shape guidelines and see if you need to tweak it at all to make it more or less smart. Or simply make a note of how often you think you can keep it casual and how often you need to make more of an effort. This ratio should help you work out what ratio of clothes to sew.<br />
<br />
Next Tuesday I am going to go through what I have in my capsule wardrobe already and what I plan on sewing next. I'll also be talking about some ideas for staples for your wardrobe and some ideas for how to fancy it up and make it more interesting.<br />
<br />
Plus I've been making a christmas dress and it's ready to show you so keep your eyes peeled for that. Zoe xx<br />
<br />
*I just want to point out that obviously celebrities are normal people. The important thing to remember is that we shouldn't compare ourselves to people that have stylists making them look good whenever they're making a public appearance. I have never had a stylist in my life.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04532444221340513433noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3695408530890678187.post-37280267050332506872014-11-18T12:44:00.000+00:002014-11-18T12:44:54.204+00:00Creating a Capsule Wardrobe Part 3 // Sewing for Your Shape<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpRPTwzaFyWiqKxx2QcSRn1AOAD27kg57QgocISyU5-dmSont9ImV7qxzvFNtxL9_hsAWki3gkfpsAW7P0F-Eu4luVpBpor-wk0stRZnq0aMdEQWirrPgXzMy2m12lc_QLJRRciAyqtFU/s1600/DSC_0592.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpRPTwzaFyWiqKxx2QcSRn1AOAD27kg57QgocISyU5-dmSont9ImV7qxzvFNtxL9_hsAWki3gkfpsAW7P0F-Eu4luVpBpor-wk0stRZnq0aMdEQWirrPgXzMy2m12lc_QLJRRciAyqtFU/s1600/DSC_0592.jpg" /></a></div>
There is nothing more deflating than when finishing sewing up a garment and trying it on it just doesn't look right. A similar feeling is when you have seen something on a friend/model/manikin in a shop window, you love it so try it on but when you look in the mirror it doesn't look the same on you as you imagined and hoped. Of course this is because we are all different. Very few of us have the same figure as a typical model or a manikin on the high street. While it is more likely that you might wear the same size as some of your friends its very unlikely that you actually have the same shape body.<br />
<br />
This is a good thing. Variety is the spice of life after all. But it presents us with a challenge when we choose what we are going to sew and wear- <b>What will look good on me? </b>If you want to create <a href="http://tadpegs.blogspot.co.uk/2014/11/creating-capsule-wardrobe-part-1.html">a capsule wardrobe</a> it's incredibly helpful to have a few guidelines for which clothes look good on your body and crucially make you feel good in. But let me stress these are just guidelines!<br />
<br />
So to work out which sort of shapes work well for you have a think about these things:<br />
<br />
<b>Which Areas Do You Love?</b><br />
Which parts of your body do you always feel confident about? Maybe you've got some killer shoulders and you love to show them off. Perhaps your waist is teeny tiny (even if other parts are not so teeny tiny). Brilliant boobs? Bootilicious bottom? Long long legs? Delicate ankles? Amazing arms? Every body has some good bits! Don't fool yourself into thinking that you don't because you absolutely most definitely one hundred percent do! Write down a list of these good areas - it can be as long as you like!!<br />
My list it this: waist, shoulders and legs.<br />
<br />
<b>Which Areas Are You More Inclined To Hide?</b><br />
Sadly we all also have some areas which we aren't so keen on (well if you haven't good for you!). You might find this list easier to write than the list above but I encourage you try to keep this list as short as possible and definitely keep it shorter than you 'love list'. If you think of more things you want to add then you should come up with some more loves too! My list is my upper arms and my muffin top.<br />
<br />
<b>Which Clothes Do I Feel Confident In?</b><br />
Make a list of 5 items of clothing that you feel really good in when you wear them. Try to work out what they have in common? Do they exaggerate your good bits and disguise your not so good? If you are struggling with this have a look at <a href="http://www.bodyshapefashionadvice.com/">this website</a>. There you can read about all the different body shapes, answer a quick quiz to figure out your own shape (without measuring yourself) and then have a look at their ideas for what looks good on a shape like yours. This website is really helpful figuring all this stuff out. Plus if you fall between two body types (I'm an hourglass/pear) you can look at the tips on both sections.<br />
<br />
Use your answers to the questions to figure out a list of guidelines. Try not to over complicate your list but have a few things to look for and a few things to avoid. When you are armed with this list you'll find it much easier to figure out which sewing patterns will look good and which won't work for you. My list looks something like this: Look for scoop necklines, sleeves, fitted waists and not too much detail around the tummy. Avoid high necklines and pointy shoes.<br />
<br />
So now you know what looks great, it's probably worth having a think about what actually works for your lifestyle. I could use my guidelines to sew 30 dresses, fitted at the waist, with sleeves and full skirts or pencil skirts. I could, but it would be terrible impractical for my day-to-day cleaning the house, kneeling on the floor to play with my children, going on the school run lifestyle. This needs to play a big part in our decision making for what to sew next. We will talk about this more next week when we will go though what could actually be in a capsule wardrobe. So come back next Tuesday to find out more. Zoe xAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04532444221340513433noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3695408530890678187.post-62030726888259995202014-11-11T13:22:00.001+00:002014-11-11T13:22:35.098+00:00Creating A Capsule Wardrobe Part 2 // Choosing a Colour Palette<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpRPTwzaFyWiqKxx2QcSRn1AOAD27kg57QgocISyU5-dmSont9ImV7qxzvFNtxL9_hsAWki3gkfpsAW7P0F-Eu4luVpBpor-wk0stRZnq0aMdEQWirrPgXzMy2m12lc_QLJRRciAyqtFU/s1600/DSC_0592.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpRPTwzaFyWiqKxx2QcSRn1AOAD27kg57QgocISyU5-dmSont9ImV7qxzvFNtxL9_hsAWki3gkfpsAW7P0F-Eu4luVpBpor-wk0stRZnq0aMdEQWirrPgXzMy2m12lc_QLJRRciAyqtFU/s1600/DSC_0592.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
I love colour. In fact I have had almost every colour of the rainbow painted on the walls in my house at some stage. (I also love to decorate but thats a tale for a another time). Having such a huge variety of colours results in something a little messy and not very relaxing. On the other hand I have been in houses where every single wall, every piece of furniture and all the art on the walls is black and white, it may be very stylish for some but to me it's a little boring. The trick is to find a nice balance of colour and neutral. The same applies to the colours we wear.<br />
<br />
If you're hoping to create a capsule wardrobe (<a href="http://tadpegs.blogspot.co.uk/2014/11/creating-capsule-wardrobe-part-1.html">read about that here)</a> then choosing the colour palette is a very important step. By colour palette I mean a few colours that you know work well on you and with your other clothes. The colours in your palette should all work together and they can include any colour you like.<br />
<br />
This post will look at some things to think about for your own colour palette. The idea is to write down your answers to each question and then compare them to see which ones occur often. I'll also work through an example (my own).<br />
<br />
<b>Question To Ask When Choosing a Colour Palette that is Right For You</b><br />
When choosing a colour palette there are serveal things to consider. In the following questions I'll get you to write down some things about yourself in order to choose the right colours for you. Try to be specific but not too specific. For example if you want to write down 'blue' as an answer, try to narrow it down a little; light or dark? Just blue or is it slightly green or slightly purple? But try not to write down 'shade 630 from the pantone colour range', we are thinking more general than that. But if you answer is 'all the blues' than that's ok too.<br />
<br />
<b>Which Colours Do I Love</b><br />
Most people have some colours they love, the ones that make them feel good when they see them or they will choose each time. They will also have some colours that they dislike or would never choose, the colours that make them think something is ugly (even if it's not). This should be a one of the main factors when you choose your colour palette. Are you always drawn to white or pale fresh colours? Do you prefer a deep shade of red or green? Do you love all the pastels? Do you hate a particular colour? Do you get a kick out of brights, neons, earth tones? Write down a list of colours you love and other colours you hate. It is ok to write down colours you love but would never wear on your 'love list'. Then put this list aside before you move on. Try to think with a clean slate before you answer the next questions.<br />
<br />
Example: I love blue, red, green, orange, yellow and white. For all these colours I like a good bold and rich tone and for blue I love all the blues.<br />
<br />
<b>Which Colours Suit Me</b><br />
You probably have a few colours that you know suit your complexion. You probably also have a few colours that aways make you look ill. To work this out if you don't know already think about your favour items of clothing, make a list of them and what colour they are. You may notice that your favourite items all fall into a similar category of colours. This might be in part because they are your favourite colours too but probably has something to do with what looks good on. If you can't see a theme then pop into a clothing shop and hold up a range of different coloured items near to your face. Do some make you look good and other not so much? Try not to just experiment with the colours that you like but also with colours that you wouldn't usually try. You might be surprised that some of them suit you when you wouldn't normally wear them. After you have thought this through, write down a list of the colours that look good and another list of colours that look bad. Keep this list with your 'Colours I Love List'.<br />
<br />
Example: Black, red, blue, white and brown all look good on me, particularly navy and teal from the blue spectrum.<br />
<br />
<b>Which colours do I already own</b><br />
Another important thing to consider is which colours do you already own. Have a look in your wardrobe and write down all the colours you can see. Then tally up the ones that occur often. You might see a theme emerging here. If you can't see a common theme try this: for the clothes that you know you wear often add an extra tick on your tally.<br />
<br />
Example: In my wardrobe I have many colours. Blue, red, orange, white, green, yellow, pink, purple, grey and black. You name it I've probably got it. However I have more of navy blue, black, white and red in my wardrobe than any other colours and a fair bit of dark green.<br />
<b><br /></b>
<b>Results</b><br />
At this point you can compare the lists that you have. You probably have some overlapping colours, if you have a colour on every list then this is probably a good place to start. Group your colours into 3 groups, one that has only the colours in all three groups, one that has colours that occur in two groups and a third for those you have only written down once.<br />
<br />
Example:<br />
Group 1: Red, Navy Blue, White<br />
Group 2: Black, Green, Yellow, Light Blue<br />
Group 3: Pink, Purple, Brown, Grey, Teal, Orange<br />
<br />
Now to have a varied enough wardrobe without going wild its a good idea to have around 5-6 colours in your palette. Have a think about what the colours in group 1 (and 2 if you need more) have in common. Are they all pastel tones? Are they primary colours? Perhaps their 'earth tones'. Maybe you're all about the neons. I'll be writing a post with some examples soon so you can have a look to get some ideas.<br />
<br />
Also think about whether they work together well, you might have a few that clash so play around with the ones you have and remove a couple that don't work. If you start with a limited colour palette now you can always add more colours in later once you have a working wardrobe.<br />
<br />
Whatever colours you have chosen you can always add white, black and grey as these are total neutrals and go with anything.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi35KWIEePfmXCMSnDCDZpmTVnxsSFZprDxizZTw86JEGfFaMOocpUhAsrUamsDZUtgmRAUcXuPXEu4uMucxRVaKMgEqX-KtXqBcc06rwKt0U2GwoM6ruVsVp32yCVeGOe88DUzCXBh-Ag/s1600/colour-palette.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi35KWIEePfmXCMSnDCDZpmTVnxsSFZprDxizZTw86JEGfFaMOocpUhAsrUamsDZUtgmRAUcXuPXEu4uMucxRVaKMgEqX-KtXqBcc06rwKt0U2GwoM6ruVsVp32yCVeGOe88DUzCXBh-Ag/s1600/colour-palette.jpg" height="320" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Example: From my list I knew I wanted red, white and navy blue and light blue. I also added in black because I needed some more neutral colours. I consider these 5 colours to be my 'main palette' but I also use dark green in the Autumn/Winter and yellow in the Spring/Summer. Plus the light blue in the summer would be a much brighter more 'teal' shade. So if you cover over the two left most colours you'll see the summer palette, or cover over the two right most colours to see the winter palette. Cover over both to see the 'main palette.'<br />
<br />
So do you have a chosen colour palette? Maybe now is the time to think about creating one so you can have a more meaningful wardrobe. If you have any questions or ideas you can leave a comment and start a discussion or head over to our <a href="https://plus.google.com/communities/118004077261818800061">community page</a>. Speak soon, Zoe xAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04532444221340513433noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3695408530890678187.post-21320015594523672932014-11-07T14:05:00.001+00:002014-11-07T14:05:50.735+00:00A Capsule Wardrobe Community<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRgYHCQXH_30rsyJocCf_BQp8wrfDmvk1QXHNka4ub6MxABAj01HFuFxMzlxDss8J3tcAA3Oi6giOOL7RvXnZmcaxyfjSy9npoiRT4E7XUnVlHHep_93kRgn4jHQZU57pNxy3eZVOjebc/s1600/Screen+Shot+2014-11-07+at+13.54.43.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRgYHCQXH_30rsyJocCf_BQp8wrfDmvk1QXHNka4ub6MxABAj01HFuFxMzlxDss8J3tcAA3Oi6giOOL7RvXnZmcaxyfjSy9npoiRT4E7XUnVlHHep_93kRgn4jHQZU57pNxy3eZVOjebc/s1600/Screen+Shot+2014-11-07+at+13.54.43.png" height="314" width="640" /></a></div>
Wanna sew a capsule wardrobe too? Or perhaps you just enjoy drooling over others capsule wardrobe ideas. Then I have just the place for you to go. Check out the <a href="https://plus.google.com/communities/118004077261818800061">'Sew a Capsule Wardrobe' community</a> on Google+. Well so far there are just 3 of us, but I would love to make an actual community out of it.<br />
<br />
If you aren't familiar with Google+ communities then you should definitely check them out. You sign up to Google+. You may have done this a few years ago and then never actually used it, but you should because it's a really great way of meeting like-minded individuals across the globe. I am in several communities on there to do with sewing, craft and baking and I love them. Then you can search for communities and ask permission to join them. Then you can write a post, share photos, share links and start discussion about the topic of the community.<br />
<br />
So far it is just me posting in this community but I would love to see others who are interested join and make conversation. Share your ideas and goals and seek out others working on their own version of a capsule wardrobe.<br />
<br />
So what do you think? If you are interested<a href="https://plus.google.com/communities/118004077261818800061"> head over there now and sign up</a>, I'll approve your membership and then you can start posting too. Plus you should absolutely start using google+ because it is a very well thought out and easy to use social network. It gets my vote any way. Looking forward to seeing you there. Zoe xAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04532444221340513433noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3695408530890678187.post-6042599959304115002014-11-04T13:16:00.003+00:002014-11-04T14:45:32.210+00:00Creating A Capsule Wardrobe // Part 1 <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhms2mGooqo6KEX-JptBevN3xRRgA3xO18OHTJjDOZMciXaitf7t3vrrW5l8aENkkZLYeqggodzMYgjAzwlahpM1W434ztIdJmLWw2K3QWKydu0tsg7qoShVaoefSnnZbC4cnINdcTCtqw/s1600/DSC_0592.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="creating a capsule wardrobe" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhms2mGooqo6KEX-JptBevN3xRRgA3xO18OHTJjDOZMciXaitf7t3vrrW5l8aENkkZLYeqggodzMYgjAzwlahpM1W434ztIdJmLWw2K3QWKydu0tsg7qoShVaoefSnnZbC4cnINdcTCtqw/s1600/DSC_0592.jpg" title="creating a capsule wardrobe" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
The biggest draw back to making your clothes instead of buying them is losing the chance to try something on before you buy. When I go clothes shopping I do a fair bit of trying before buying. I look at the item on the hanger a few times, check the price tag, hold it up to my face to see if the colour is right, try it on in two sizes for comparison, think about what else it goes with that I already own, recheck the price tag and then only buy it if I am happy it has met all my requirements.<br />
<br />
This is clearly much harder to do when you don't have a garment in front of you. How do you know the style will be right? Is the colour something that will suit? How much will the finished garment cost? Which size will be best? All these questions are much harder to answer when you have to make the clothes and you can't see them right in front of you.<br />
<br />
Sadly quite a few of my earlier makes now don't get worn. It isn't that my taste has changed or that they no longer fit. I just wasn't sewing the right clothes - I didn't have a clear idea of what I would to wear. During <a href="http://tadpegs.blogspot.co.uk/2014/06/my-lessons-from-me-made-may.html">Me-Made-May</a> last year I realised I needed to make a few changed and plan a little more if I wanted to make my own clothes rather than buy them. I needed to be a little more selective about the fabrics I bought and the patterns I sewed. I wanted to make clothes that I felt good in, looked good on and went with clothes I already owned. I decided to think of my new wardrobe as a 'capsule wardrobe'.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbCBk9Shn-whq3Zxu4c82sCNMbVFSQuRzSkndR9-NunwV5e8tOE5dW9Fxy52uGxiB8IUsy33SPObYQ_v7B7-gecLvxCmQIJajrUCYstW5EO0l78cKyJXq1mFvLjrMvxQJYOXNnkVvPki4/s1600/FinalOwop.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="creating a capsule wardrobe- ways to wear stripes" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbCBk9Shn-whq3Zxu4c82sCNMbVFSQuRzSkndR9-NunwV5e8tOE5dW9Fxy52uGxiB8IUsy33SPObYQ_v7B7-gecLvxCmQIJajrUCYstW5EO0l78cKyJXq1mFvLjrMvxQJYOXNnkVvPki4/s1600/FinalOwop.jpg" height="558" title="creating a capsule wardrobe- ways to wear stripes" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Now I know that a capsule wardrobe isn't a new concept. For those of your who are unfamiliar with the idea the aim is to have items in your wardrobe that can all mix and match together and that are all flattering to your body shape so that on any given day you can pick out a couple of items and they'll work together and make you look and feel good.<br />
<br />
Over the next few weeks I am going to share some ideas for choosing your own colour palette and for working out some style rules for the types of items to sew. I'll be doing it particularly with a handmade wardrobe in mind but the principles will work for any one who is thinking of creating their own capsule wardrobe. Here are just a few reasons why you might like to start your own capsule wardrobe:<br />
<br />
<b>A Capsule Wardrobe Saves Space</b><br />
I live in a house where I have room for one wardrobe and one chest of drawers. This is plenty of space to fit all the clothes one person needs. But if I want to maximise this space to its full potential I need all my clothes to work well with each other and for them all to be things that I would wear.<br />
<br />
<b>A Capsule Wardrobe Saves Time</b><br />
If all your clothes go together with each other then you will save time dressing each day. Plus if you have a set of guidelines for what to add to your wardrobe then it saves time on shopping too, you know which items will work and which items simply won't go with anything.<br />
<br />
<b>A Capsule Wardrobe Saves Money</b><br />
In a similar way to 'saving time' have a set of guidelines for what you should wear will help you save money too. You'll be much less likely to make something you would never wear or waste money on something that doesn't go with other things you own.<br />
<br />
<b>A Capsule Wardrobe looks Good</b><br />
Whenever I have seen people with a capsule wardrobe before, it makes me think they have a 'signature style'. It certainly doesn't have to be boring either, lot's of people assume capsule wardrobe means lot's of neutrals and no colour but this couldn't be further form the truth. It just means you always wear clothes that work well together but we can talk more about this in the next post.<br />
<br />
If you, like me, find you don't wear all the clothes you own but still don't know what to wear each day then maybe creating a capsule wardrobe it a good idea. Follow along with me over the next few weeks to pick up some ideas of where to start. Zoe xAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04532444221340513433noreply@blogger.com0