Jacquard & Paisley

Here is something that I rarely manage to do . . . this blouse and skirt were made using the same vintage reproduction pattern (Simplicity 1166), and I am wearing them at the same time.  Funny how that ensures that both pieces are going to work together!  Most of my separates patterns end up solitary and alone in the closet.  And while I cannot recall whether or not my intention was to make both of these pieces when I purchased the pattern years ago, I am very pleased that this is the way it all turned out. 

When I put the outfit on that morning, I had intended to tuck the blouse in, but that pattern illustration stuck with me, and I decided to go for the tie.

I do that with button up shirts all the time, the difference being that they are not something that I made.  The act of tying the shirts has never damaged them, but for some reason, I have an aversion to knotting the tops that I have made.  I think it's time to get over that!

I mentioned in my post about the construction of this blouse that I was second guessing the over-sized collar.  And for some reason, I like the collar a whole lot better with the cropped silhouette created by the waist tie.  Go figure.

I am also happy to note that the slight puckering from the top-stitching on this drapey fabric is not very noticeable when it is being worn (or, at least, it looks that way to me!).

I have also been reminded that I need to make another version of this skirt . . . perhaps in a solid fabric.

I was unsure about the pleated front and flat back when I first cut out the fabric, but the silhouette has grown on me.

And I haven't made any bound buttonholes in a while, so maybe it's time to get back to this pattern.

And I definitely want to make another version of the blouse.  So I would have to say that this pattern is a definite winner!    

Blouse:  Made by me, Simplicity 1166
Skirt:  Made by me, Simplicity 1166
Necklace:  Vintage
Shoes:  Colin Stuart