Monday, 19 December 2016

2016: The Hits And The Misses

2016 has been a good dressmaking year for me. I haven't been as prolific as in previous years, but that's because I've been a bit more considered in what I choose to sew. I've concentrated more on fit and fabric choice and this has definitely resulted in fewer failures and unworn garments! 

So without further ado, let's look at my favourite makes and a couple that didn't quite work...

THE HITS 

New Look 6217
The pattern that has without doubt, been the biggest hit of my sewing year has been New Look 6217. It may be a plain, unprepossessing little pattern, but it always seems to magically come up with the goods for me. The top and skirt both fit me straight from the envelope and are very easy to sew. My favourite of the five tops I've sewn is still the first one, made with black satin-backed crepe. It goes with everything and always looks classy. There's a round-up of all my other versions on my OWOP post here.


My NL6217 polka dot denim skirt should also get a mention as it was such a wardrobe staple over the summer. The fabric has a great stretch to it, so it's both comfortable to wear and a flattering fit.


Big Vintage Sewalong Dress
This Vogue reproduction pattern (V8875) has only been worn once as it's very dressy, but I still want to include it as I received so many compliments when I wore it! It's made from a gorgeous luxury crepe, so it hangs beautifully and has a very polished look. I also worked really hard to perfect the fit and feel really fabulous in it!


Vintage Shoulder Tie Top
Made using a Woman's Own vintage pattern, this has been a surprise hit as it's more of a boxier fit than I'm used to. The cute shoulder ties are a lovely vintage touch and I found myself reaching for it again and again over the summer. The lush Liberty fabric doesn't hurt either!


Ginghamalong Top
This was made to replace a much loved, very similar top and is a big improvement on the original. It's made using the Sewaholic Granville pattern, which is a great fit on me, and the 100% cotton gingham is a lovely quality. In fact I'm wearing it as I type this (underneath a jumper)! 



THE MISSES

There are only two, neither of which has been an outright disaster. 

Karen Drape Dress
Despite me falling for the draped style of this Maria Denmark pattern, it's still a bit too grown up and slinky for me, hence it's only been worn once. I do really like the side pleat detail though, so may well just shorten it into a top. Teamed with a plain skirt or jeans, I'm sure it would get worn a lot more frequently. This can be a nice easy job for the New Year!


Clara Bow Blouse
I've worn this pattern a couple of times but the fit has never been quite right. It's a nice pattern (original pattern review is here) but needs a bit of tweaking to get it to fit me properly: I'd need to do an FBA (Full Bust Adjustment) and lengthen it considerably. 


Only two minor fails then, which I consider pretty good going for a whole year of sewing!

What have been your biggest hits (and misses) of 2016? And which patterns have turned out to be unexpected gems?!

In other news, I'm working away on my red coat and may get it finished before Christmas. If I don't, it will make a good project to welcome in the New Year! Happy Monday! x





14 comments:

  1. Love your top 5. You can't beat a classic bit of gingham. My favourite is the boxy floral red vest. Those bows!

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    1. Thanks Camilla! I love that boxy vest too, definitely one of my surprise hits of the year! x

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  2. I have felt the same this year, quality over quantity! It is much more satisfying. Well done on all your sewing this year! I really love the little tops, the simple pieces always get the most wear!

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    1. Totally agree - quality over quantity! Have loved your handmade wardrobe this year too. x

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  3. Just LOVELY, Jane! My fav is the vintage tie top; I remember when you blogged that pattern. I've since modified an existing pattern to shamelessly copy you so there is such a top running around Brisbane, Australia! (Different fabric though.) Happy Christmas to you & your family! :)

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    1. Hoorah, that's exactly what I like to hear! Merry Christmas to you too! x

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  4. Oh my; I love everything you make and just enjoy the blog in general. Happy Christmas, Jane!

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    1. Ah what a lovely comment, thank you very much! And Merry Christmas to you too! x

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  5. The black blouse and slacks are stunning. I can't think of anywhere that outfit wouldn't be welcome. As for the black and white dress, get your swagger on and enjoy it. I wouldn't consider it a fail. It fits well and I love the sleeves. Courage!

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    1. Thank you, the black top is a real winner! Still not convinced by the drape dress though, the fit and fabric are fine, it's just the style I don't like. x

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  6. I love that New Look 6217 pattern. I cut a top from it today but didn't actually get round to sewing it. You have some great clothes there - definitely shorten the dress, it will be worth it. Happy Christmas! Jo x

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    1. Thanks Jo! I WILL shorten the dress, I'm sure it will be worth it! Merry Xmas! x

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