Michelle, ma belle... tres bien ensemble
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Michelle ma belle, sont des mots qui vont très bien ensemble,

Tres bien ensemble

Carme 

9/16/2014

12 Comments

 
Picture
As soon as I'd finished this blouse I slipped it on to take a look. The style is very different from anything I've sewn for myself previously. I stood in front of the mirror and stared for a minute. Turned. Stared some more. Then Mike walked in. I asked him what he thought of my new blouse, and he responded that I looked perfectly dressed for a renaissance fair. Not exactly the response I was expecting. I turned back toward the mirror. He was right. We laughed. I took the blouse off and set it aside. Oh, well, I thought. You can't win them all. 
Picture
I decided to give it a chance, after all, Carme did take a little bit of effort to complete with her pintucks and placket, abundant edge stitching, sleeve ties, collar and cuffs. She deserved a spin around the block. I tucked the blouse into my black Hollyburn skirt and stood in front of the mirror. I felt nothing. I had Mike snap a few photos for the blog. When I reviewed them that evening after work, I had the same BLAH reaction. It just wasn't working. 
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The photos of my Carme/Hollyburn combo were uninspiring to the point I decided I needed a do-over. I rolled up my sleeves, undid a few buttons and let my hem hang out. Just like that, it clicked. Suddenly, Carme made sense. And, I really liked like her. In fact, I think we'll be spending a lot of time together this fall as layers become a key component of my daily attire. Will I make this blouse again. Maybe. Probably. Someday. 
Picture
This was my first experience working from a Pauline Alice pattern. I chose to purchase the PDF version. The pattern pieces went together exactly as they should. Everything lined-up, and it was fairly quick and easy to assemble. I used the body measurement charts provided to determine which sizes to cut. For my shape, I needed to grade between three sizes from the bust to the hip (38-42). It seemed like a lot, but it was an easy blend, and I feel like I have an even amount of wearing ease throughout the garment as a result of the grade. 
Picture
The instructions and illustrations provided with the pattern were very nicely drafted and clearly explained. I followed the instructions, mostly. I did use French seams on my side, shoulder and sleeve seams; I do this as a rule. Paired with the finishing techniques in the pattern, I think the end result is very professional and holds up to wear and tear. The fabric is estate sale stash. It's a semi-sheer embroidered cotton. 

Nathalie has a lovely post on how she modified her Carme blouse to accommodate her bump. I'm excited for our next project together, Roxanne. The weather has shifted here and all I can think about is FALL. So, I'll definitely be making mine suitable for cool weather wearing! I'm dreaming about fall textiles, how about you? 

P.S.- Do you live in New York? On a whim, Liz and I have decided to take a day trip and have been making plans via Twitter to meet-up with some lovely sewing bloggers while we're there on October 4. 
12 Comments
Brooke link
9/16/2014 02:24:01 am

Styled like this, your blouse is definitely not ren-faire! I really love the fabric you used and the fact that you were thoughtful about stripe placement makes me happy. =) Very nice details!

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Michelle link
9/16/2014 02:57:37 am

Thanks for noticing! :-D I'm just a smidge anal retentive. So, I had to center that vertical stripe down the front. :-D

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kessem link
9/16/2014 04:36:03 am

I'll be in NYC! I'd love to join you!

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Michelle link
9/16/2014 05:14:44 am

EXCELLENT! I'll be sending you an email shortly!

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Pumpkin link
9/16/2014 07:05:28 am

I really, really love how this turned out (maybe it's just my style?), but I think I would personally prefer it in black. I love how nicely transparent the fabric is though. It looks nice and cool to wear!

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Nat @ Made in Home link
9/16/2014 07:33:24 pm

I love your version - it will be easier to wear, but yes it is an open shirt, let it hang sort of shirt. Maybe you could knit a cardigan to go with it...

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Gail link
9/16/2014 09:27:43 pm

I'm glad you came around with this one. I like it on you. This is one of those styles that I'm not crazy about for myself, but really like on other people. And I agree with Nat above - it will be great for layering.

Have fun in New York!

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Jennifer link
9/16/2014 10:02:11 pm

I love this top! The way you've styled it is really flattering & super adorable. Your sewing skills are just so amazing!

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kristieinbc link
9/16/2014 11:55:47 pm

I can't believe you made that blouse! I think it looks terrific on you!

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steph link
9/22/2014 01:43:03 am

phew. I'm glad you decided you like it.....because I LOVE it! I think you are going to love it, too.....layered under sweaters...with cowls....gosh. I think it's pretty perfect.

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Sally link
9/26/2014 03:02:03 pm

This is great neutral top - I love neutrals with detail, and those pintucks and sleeve cuffs are perfect! :)

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amandawyatt link
10/2/2014 07:09:52 am

Oh I love this pattern and your version is exquisite, well done- so need to purchase -

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