Sew What Do I Wear? Valentine's Outfit two ways

When I first saw this fabric, this gorgeous rayon from Cotton+Steel/Rifle Paper Co., I just about had a spasm. I know you fellow fabric addicts know that feeling I'm talking about. It's an adrenaline rush when you see the perfect fabric. You may or may not already have a pattern in mind, but it doesn't even matter.

Around the same time, Made for Mermaids released their Mama Daphne pattern. It was not something that I would normally wear, but I was intrigued by it. It kind of reminded me of a uniform for a waitress at a Mexican restaurant, and I kind of liked it. So I bought the pattern last summer, but this is the first time I actually made it up.

So my inspiration for this was a Mexican restaurant--you know those bright floral oilcloth table coverings? Along with the ruffle, I thought the fabric and pattern combo worked great.

I originally wanted to make it with long sleeves because Valentine's Day is in February, but being in Texas, it didn't really matter that much anyway! I also went for the top instead of a dress because I didn't want the vibe to be too strong. I really love how it turned out.

Valentine's Day is not a big thing for me, but making pretty things definitely is. I think this top is perfect for the occasion. The front and back bodice are cut the same, and there's not a lot of definition, so I personally prefer to wear it tucked in as with this pencil skirt.

If you were wondering, yes, the skirt is store-bought. And yes, I most certainly did zip my blouse into it.

Since I have narrow shoulders and am short in the upper chest, I decided to size down for the top and grade out at the waist and hips. I also took out a tiny bit of length right at the bust line. On the ruffle, I folded the top edge down a little extra when making the elastic casing and topstitched to give it a little bit more of a finished edge. I think it's a nice touch.

Now, since we don't have any local babysitters, this outfit is probably just not going to get worn. Jeans are more my speed! So I thought I'd show you a casual pic or two as well. Daphne can also be worn with the ruffle on top of the shoulders like sleeves.

 

I was apprehensive about stepping outside of my comfort zone with this pattern, but I'm glad I did. I will even make another! I really like the flutter sleeves, so will try that one next. This was one of my choices for #makenine2017, so I'm pretty pleased to have at least 1/9 crossed off my list.

The hardest part of this pattern was deciding which view to make! And I made my own bias tape for the first time. It wasn't difficult but did take some time. 

There are some pretty stunning makes on this blog tour. From floor-length velvet to heart elbow patches, everyone looks awesome. Be sure to check out the other bloggers!

Jan 30 - The Do It Better Yourself Club/ Wild & Wanderful/ SewSophieLynn/ Vinyasew

Jan 31 - Argyle and Pearls / Ma Moose / Red Stitch Blue Stitch/ All sewn up by Stacey

Feb 1 - All Things Katy! / Sew and Tell Project / Sew A Piece of Joy / The Kisses Co

Feb 2 - It's Liesel / Sewingly, Michelle / Stitching and Making/ Rebel & Malice

Feb 3 - On Wednesdays We Sew/ The Crunchy Mommy/ Margarita on the Ross/ Four Seasons and a Road Trip



Do you "do" Valentine's Day?