Appreciating Texture: Crosshatch Print Shorts

This fabric was love at first sight while browsing through the aisles of Fabric Planet. It is a pretty sturdy, stretchy woven fabric, so the idea of shorts instantly came to mind. The print is similar to the one I used for my matching skirt and top, but much more dramatic. Obviously I have a thing for black and white line patterns, but what really struck me about this particular fabric was the texture. All the black lines stick out a little from the white.

As someone who loves neutrals and simple silhouettes, it can be easy to accidentally create a bunch of "boring" garments. Having some basics in really simple shapes and colors is an important part of any wardrobe, but too many can create a monotonous closet. Although I would not call this print boring, but I already made two items in a very similar print style, so the texture helps it stand out among my other clothes. Using fabrics with an interesting texture are an excellent way to add unique character to your pieces while staying true to your atheistic.

I used Simplicity 1371, a Cynthia Rowley pattern which I was drawn to by the pockets. It was fairly easy to put together, but the fit was very off for me. I had to make the rise about two inches shorter (probably could have taken off another inch), and if I were to do it again, I would make the waist slightly bigger and the rest slightly more fitted. I have never graded sizes before, so that will be an adventure for another day.

Foot note: (This is a note about my shoes, see what I did there?) These are one of my favorite shoes of the summer (spring, fall, and LA winter). They are amazingly comfortable with the thick block heel and just the right height. I had been looking around for this popular style for awhile, but most had much higher heels that I knew I would not be able to wear often. They did take some breaking in, but overall not that bad. The best part is they were extremely affordable from Payless Shoes.

Cropped Overalls

I don't think I have worn a pair of overalls since I was a kid. Not because I did not want to, but because it has been really hard to find a pair that fits and doesn't make me look 12. I was so excited when I came across SewHouse7 and their Burnside Bibs. It's a simple and sophisticated take on the childhood classic, with a lot of easy variations.

 I wore the overalls with a long lace bralette to add some contrast. I love pairing opposites in an outfit, in this case the softness of the lace with the more utilitarian fabric and design of the overalls. The bralette is also functional, it is nice and cool for the summer and of course super comfortable.

If you're looking for something similar that is ready to wear, check out some of my picks at the end of this post.

I was a little intimidated at first, because it looked fairly complicated, but I was surprised at how easy it was (once I put together the pdf pattern pieces...)! The fabric, from Jo-ann's, was really easy to work with and the perfect fabric for casual and comfortable overalls. I was able to finish it pretty quickly and with minimal use of my seam ripper. I chose the more fitted version with the zipper, and while my zipper is not invisible like it was intended to be, my motto when it comes to zippers is "better done then perfect." Only minor adjustments for fit were necessary, and when I make them again, I think I will make the bib a little shorter. Overall, for my first PDF pattern, I was pretty pleased with the experience.

Pattern: Burnside Bibs by Sew House 7
Fabric: Sew Classic Bottomweight Rodeo Cotton from Joann Fabrics

Gingham Sundress

Gingham is everywhere this spring, and I've wanted to dive in for awhile, but I also didn't want to wear the exact same print everyone else had. I found this Steel & Cotton fabric at fabric.com, and immediately knew it was perfect for my dip into the gingham pool. I wasn't sure what to do with it, so I ordered a couple yards and hoped it was enough for whatever I decided. (It ended up being more then enough, so be prepared to see more of it soon!)

I was originally inspired by this pin on Pinterest and I knew I wanted to use this fabric for a dress with this silhouette. It was a little difficult to find a pattern, but I was able to track down this vintage McCall's pattern (3952) at an Etsy shop. I actually really liked using the junior's sizing, I only had to make pretty minor adjustments to the fit. My goal with this project was to make a light easy summer dress that I could through on for almost any occasion and still be comfortable, and I think I mostly achieved that.

(My little puppers wanted to make an appearance.)

After I started this dress, I found one that is very similar by Petite Studio NYC (linked below). I LOVE this brand and have been stalking their social media and website for awhile, but haven't quite brought myself to purchase something as the price range is a little high for me. So if anyone has tried any of their clothing, I would love to hear about it! Reformation, another brand I love but haven't purchased from (yet) also has a couple similar dresses. Overall, a super versatile dress and perfect for the summer.

I love this dress with these (faux) wood platform sandals. It feels very 90's, but still modern. These shoes from Payless shoes, they are a great price, and were immediately comfortable with no breaking in. I have narrow feet and ankles so it can be difficult finding sandals with straps that fit, but these were great. Perfect shoes if you want to add a little height without compromising comfort.