2 April 2010

Going in (Half) Circles

I have made vintage Simplicity 3881 in the past (see here and here).  It is a lovely half circle skirt that fits nicely and flatters my pear shape by remaining smooth and close fitting at the waist and flaring out over the hip.  So, when I was looking for the perfect pattern to use with a great piece of dusty yellow linen with a brown and blue plaid pattern (from Fabric Mart), this retro pattern came to mind instantly.

The trickiest part of the whole project was ensuring that the plaid lined up on each side seam.  However, with some careful cutting, a bit of patience and a ton of pins, the mission was accomplished.  The only other hitch was getting the skirt hemmed at the proper length all the way around.  A portion of the skirt is cut on the bias and after hanging for a few days (to allow the bias cut fabric to relax), I had a severely misshapen skirt. So, I just used my tape measure and measured down equal amounts from the waistband guaranteeing a perfectly level hem.

So, here's the finished product, all put together for work.  On top I have a pale yellow sleeveless sweater and a teal cardigan.  The cardigan is pinned together at the top with an over-sized dark peach enamel flower brooch (a gift from my Mom - she keeps me decked out in all sorts of gorgeous costume jewelery).  On my feet are a pair of brown leather sling back heels that sport an adorable little bow on the front.  These shoes were a purchased at Nine West several years ago.  At the time, the round toe look was just coming back in and I wasn't completely sold on the style (the 80s had trained my eye to see pointy toed pumps as the only fashionable choice).  I am so glad I didn't pass these shoes up though, as they have been a great addition to my wardrobe. 

Isn't it funny how odd a new style can seem when you first see it?  If you're like me, you vow that you will never wear the new style and dismiss it.  Then, after a few weeks (or months or years), when your eye becomes more accustomed to the look, you start to warm up to the new fashion.  I was like this with capris, platform heels and big scarves as indoor wear.  Now, I can't imagine going without.

So, dear reader, any fashion trends that initially struck you as horrid, only to later become some of your favourites?

17 comments:

Carolyn (Diary of a Sewing Fanatic) said...

Nix fashion trends, I wanna talk about the skirt that is AWESOME! Love how you've accessorized it!

Suzy said...

Love, love, love the skirt.

As for fashion trends, the crocheted vest trend that was around a year or two back. I remember when it was popular in the 70s, and didn't cotton (pun intended) to it then,and didn't the second time around either.

Some trends should not be resurrected!

How's Simon?

Lisette M said...

Beautiful skirt Shannon! Funny I have a dress that needs to be hemmed and your approach with the measuring tape was how I was going to do it since my first hem turned out less than perfect.

Gorgeous Things said...

Love the skirt!!!!
I have to think about the trends. I can't really think of any that I didn't like at first but grew to like. Wait - no, platform shoes. But even then I don't go gaga for them. I just kind of accept them as the only way I'll get certain shoes whose look I like.

gwensews said...

Cute skirt! I'em too old for most trends, I think--at least really far out ones. I do try to stay creent within my age bracket though, but usually wind up on the end of the trend!

Carol said...

I bought a pair of very similar shoes this week! My heels are more cone shaped, but the colour and round toe are similar. I had the very same discussion with myself about it. I bought them in a recycled shop where the owner knows I like pointy shoes. She expressed surprise at my choice, but like you, I am glad I bought them. This colour combination is a real winner for you. I hacve always shied away from teal, but it's such a lovely colour. Happy Easter to you and Simon.

Unknown said...

Never mind the skirt, how is Simon?
LOL, just kidding, but really, how is Simon?

Vicki said...

Cute skirt. I think the skinny jeans trend is one that I am warming up to.

angie.a said...

Ooh, pretty pretty!!! You're gonna post it on We Sew Vintage, right? hint hint. :P

LOVE the color combo, btw. One of my FAVES!

haha, my word ver is "alikin". I'm alikin this entire outfit! :D

Teddylyn said...

I love your ability to take a vintage style and make it look so current through your choice of fabric and accessories. You look fabulous!

Faye Lewis said...

Love that skirt and you look great in it.

Trudy said...

Your skirt is gorgeous.

mermaids said...

emma would be proud. :)

amber said...

What a lovely skirt! I love the outfit you built around it, too. :)

Summerset said...

Love it! The half circle and circle are great shapes - my favs. You look fab in the outfit - the teal is wonderful on you!

Kitty Couture said...

Your outfit is perfect, as always!

Jenny said...

Beautiful, beautiful skirt! I've come around to skinny jeans, boots over jeans, and the big indoor scarves as well. I'm completely with you on taking a while for "new" trends to look normal.