A sewing blog about building a functional, cohesive handmade wardrobe, one garment at a time.

Tuesday, January 12, 2016

Plantain, again

My parents-in-law have doubled their grandchildren in the past 13 months. So when the whole family got together over New Year's, a family photo was high on the agenda.  Earlier in the year, my sisters-in-law and I agreed on a navy, gray and mustard yellow color scheme.  I was very tempted to wear yellow on top - it is my favorite color and looks reasonably well on me - but a savvy friend, knowing that I was not feeling excellent about my weight, advised me to wear dark colors on top.  


After a browse or two through the thrift store racks (because I refuse to pay retail prices for what I hope will only be "transition" clothes) it became clear that I was going to have to make something.  Luckily I had this great navy and white striped cotton/lycra in my stash (purchased from Fabric Mart back in the fall).  I decided to go back to my selfish sewing roots and make a Plantain.


I messed up a bit while cutting the top.  I had intended to cut a 40 shoulder widening to a 44 in the bust and continuing the 44 to the hem.  But somehow I ended up widening only to a 42.  It feels a little tight on, but I actually like how it looks in the photos.  I do think I could have used that extra room in the bust.  On the positive side, it should fit even after more of the baby weight comes off.


I didn't try to match stripes on the sleeves - no excuse other than that I was tired when I cut and sewed this.


Man I look tired.

10 comments:

  1. You make me wanna sew for myself! Looks great! And you look good tired... i mean I look so much scarier :))

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  2. It looks great on you! This is such a great pattern, and I find it is super forgiving of changes in weight - gain or lose a few pounds and my Plantains still look good. :-) I also love a striped top layered under things and peeking out for winter.

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    1. I think you are right about the Plantain. It is such a great pattern. Thanks for the compliment!

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  3. You may look tired Sweetheart (And I can say that 'cause I am doing night feeds and have bags in my bags too) but you are really looking good, you have certainly lost weight.

    I love that top so much, I would totally wear it in a heart beat.

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    1. Thank you Nicole, I am trying (though Christmas took its toll!).

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  4. The top looks great, and I do agree about wearing darker colours on top (I'm a devoted wearer of dark colours!) You look great, even tired. Fatigue and babies just go together, don't they.

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    1. Thanks, Marisa. Thing is, the baby is actually sleeping pretty well these days! I just don't think I can catch up ;)

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  5. Love the top and the fabric you chose!

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  6. It is a lovely top, and it looks great on you I think. 'Tired' comes in a bundle with a gorgeous little human :)

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Hi! I am so happy you came by. Thanks for your comment!