Heat Wave!

At long last, it's starting to feel like summer in the city. It's muggy and hot- exactly the way it should be. Nevermind that it's already the middle of July, and these temperatures should have arrived months ago. It worked out for me, because 'months ago' is when I should have started sewing summer staples. And, last weekend is when I finally got around to doing so. 

What ultimately became a Datura Blouse started as a completely different project. It's a heartbreaking tragedy involving silk and snagging needles. I won't bore you with the details. There was yelling. There were tears. It was awful. But, as things tend to do, it worked out in the end. Following my debacle, I had EXACTLY enough untainted fabric to cut the bottom portion of this blouse. Happenstance. 

After some hesitant test stitching on scrap fabric with a new needle, this top came together very easily.  I paired the printed charmeuse with a black crepe for the yoke contrast. They're both silk and similar in weight, so they compliment each other well. 

I'd read some reviews describing the pattern instructions as unclear and difficult to decipher, but I didn't run into any issues. I did, however, make a couple changes and sewed based primarily on intuition rather than a strict adherence to the directions. So, it's probably best not to use my experience as any indication as to their usability.

Most notably, I chose not to underline the yoke of my blouse. It didn't seem critical to the overall construction or fit of the garment. I also did not use any bias tape to finishes the edges. I replaced both these aspects with a rolled hem at the neckline, armscye, and hemline. Additionally, I used French seams throughout, so I can wear this top confidently without fear of fraying edges. 

I already love it to pieces! I left the pattern out on my table so I can get to work making another ASAP. Really, I could use several of these in my closet. The positive ease and flattering curve over the hip makes this a really wearable blouse. In addition to the way I wore it here, I've already worn it tucked into a pencil skirt, and it looked great!

There are some pretty versatile options included with this pattern. I'm interested to see if I can tackle the cut-out neckline. And, I definitely want a PeterPan collared Datura. Ooo, and a lace one. And, I did buy some great silk prints while I was in New York last month that would be amazing tops as well...  

I may be getting a little carried away. The gist is, I really love this pattern and the blouse it yielded. 

Pattern: Datura Blouse by Deer and Doe
Fabric(s): Silk Charmeuse and Silk Crepe