By the time you are reading this Fabricista Blog post, I’ll most likely be a few days postpartum with my second child. After my first pregnancy, I had no idea what to wear in the transitional Fourth Trimester. There are so many unique challenges that arrive during this phase of life. Challenges include: accommodating a constantly changing body, nursing access, dressing rapidly while hoping to look half-decent, and comfort above all else. Thanks to my first postpartum experience, I learned which handmade clothes and items would be the most helpful. I set out to create a pair of comfortable, versatile shorts; a nursing-friendly top; and a new nursing cover. Make #1 Feel Pretty Pants and Shorts My first postpartum essential is a pair of comfy, cool, stretchy shorts to carry me through the remainder of the summer and early fall heat. The Feel Pretty Pants and Shorts pattern from Ellie and Mac Patterns utilizes woven fabric perfectly, while an elastic waistband provides the stret...
Hello sewing friends! I was highly motivated to try another one of the vintage Polynesian Pattern dresses I’ve collected during our hot weather. The patterns are all dramatic and fashionable and really apropos for summer styling. This one is number 204, the Pilialoha Dress. The gown includes a wide boatneck that many of them feature, plus a very beautiful back gathering and wraparound closure. I always find that the special details on the back are such a chic surprise compared to the simple front. I chose a lemon covered cotton lawn . I am really delighted with the quality of this cotton, it’s luxuriously soft and smooth. The scale of the lemons and blossoms are just right and not overwhelming, and the soft yellow background is beautiful. This could not be more charming and summery! I also chose some excellent lightweight interfacing for my facings, and the real highlight is these Dritz Floral Sew-On Snaps that I’ve had my eye on for months! Finally, the perfect ...