Made by a Fabricista: Spring Essentials Part 1

I'm not sure what side of the world you are on, but Spring is most certainly no where I am (North East). I got a late start on my spring wardrobe, so I opted to make a few key pieces that will not only mix and match with current garments, but give me a great start to the planning of this year's outfits for outings, vacations, as well as the impending warm weather.

I started this collection of essentials with an off the shoulder tunic. Off the shoulder tops, & dresses are on trend this season and I am here for all of it! The used a chartreuse yellow 100% cotton voile that breathes extremely well for warm weather. The fabric is sold out, here are some alternate shirting options (HERE) (HERE), & (HERE). The pattern used is Simplicity 1613, cut 1 inch wider around the seam allowances than my normal size extended 6 inches into a curved and slit sides. Instead of extending the top 4 inches for the elastic casing, I created a separate casing to attach the the top of the tunic.

Sticking with the theme of spring tops, I created this really quick and easy circle tube top. I drafted this top using my upper and lower bust measurements along with the same concept as a circle skirt. The fabric used is a Purple/Coral Poly/Lycra Mesh-like knit. This fabric is so beautiful, and the pictures do it no justice. The chameleon effect drew me to this fabric in a major way. This fabric is no longer available, as it sold out fairly quickly. Check this beautiful alternative (HERE) & (HERE).

Both pieces pair well with jeans, shorts, and long maxi skirts. I love white jeans, and had them in mind while working on these two. I paired both outfits with purple heels.

Next up is a duster. Spring afternoon and nights tend to be on the cool side, so why not add a light layer that can be worn all day? I used the same mesh as my circle tube top white on white to bring out the color. The pattern I used is McCall 6884 which is a faux wrap dress pattern. I constructed it as a true wrap dress and only finished the edges of the top and around the neck since this is mesh. I also created a separate belt for the summer time when I can also use this duster as a cover-all for the beach. 2 for 1!

Using the same pattern (McCall 6884) I created a wrap dress with one of my staple fabrics for spring - florals. I have seen this fabric in a number of retail dresses and had to have it for my own. The fabric used is a Navy/Mint multi floral print Rayon/Lycra Jersey knit also sold out in very little time. These ITY and Jersey options will work as a great substitute (HERE), (HERE), & (HERE).

Last is something a little funky! The pants below were created with love, sweat, and tears on a whim. I drafted these pants using McCall 6930, eliminating the pockets and the darts, creating a center seam for both the front and back pieces, and inserting a gusset exactly 15 inches from the top of the pants with a 24 inch base to widen the pants dramatically.

These are not your mother's bell bottoms! The pants were constructed with a magenta crepe suiting that I have been holding on to for about 2 months. While I do not like pink as much, I absolutely love the shade of magenta. This fabric as well is sold out and is why you should stay on top of your Fabric Mart visits! As an alternative, check out Fabric Mart's linen collection (HERE). The colors that are available now are vibrant and spring/summer ready!