Fabricista: All Dressed Up in Denim
Pattern:
I was overwhelmed with choices of what to create with this chambray linen for my July Fabric Mart Fabricista post. I had pulled about six patterns from my collection that would have all made great use of this gorgeous fabric. I managed to narrow it down to two choices; McCalls 7936-a practical,t throw on jumpsuit and Simplicity 9097-a backless, dressed up jumpsuit. So I did what I usually do and let my friends on IG decide. S9097 overwhelmingly one.
Mimi's patterns rarely let me down so it's no shock that I love this jumpsuit. As usual the instructions were clear and if you do get stumped along the way you can always head to YouTube to watch her step by step sewalong. I love the backless halter design, the side front pocket, the wide legs and the button front. The only thing I would consider changing if I were to make this pattern again, and I actually debated this time, is to omit the sashes and add a channel of elastic to back. The sashes don't do much for me as I'm typically not a fan of bows above my booty. Adding a channel between the back and back facing would be a simple mod and hopefully keep the back from sliding down.
I sewed a straight 18, which worked everywhere but my waist. That was my fault as I know I am an apple shape. I was focused on a tight fit at my bust which is important in an halter. I typically grade out to a size larger for my waist and hips in one pieces, but because the legs here were wide I didn't need more room in the hips. I did however need some room at the waist so I let out the side and side front seams and though still snug it fits.
Fabric:
I knew I'd love this chambray linen because I'm already a fan of their designer quality linen and it didn't disappoint. It comes in 23 colors so it was difficult to choose one (I'm sure I'll work with some of the other colors soon). Ultimately I went with this Carolina blue which is similar to a traditional denim chambray color way. The fabric was easy to work with, save a little fraying (I recommend serging your rare edges before construction or washing).
Fabric Mart describes it as a lightweight, 100% linen fabric with a chambray look with most colors being yarn-dyed with a color and white. They suggest that it is best for a shirt, skirt or dress and warn that a lining may be required for some garments. It worked pretty well for this jumpsuit, but I can understand why it isn't recommended for pants as it is light and I'm a tad worried about the stress on the crotch seam. I was glad that I didn't need a lining.
I chose these wooden buttons that I picked up from my local Walmart for just $1 for 2. Wooden buttons were my first thoughts to contrast this denim blue chambray and when I saw these I knew they would work.
Modifications:
I didn't make any, but would consider omitting the sashes as mentioned above.
Summary:
I love the jumpsuit!
Pattern: Simplicity 9097 A Mimi G pattern
Pattern Description: Misses' halter back, dress or jumpsuit has back ties and front buttons.
Sizing: 6-14,16-24
Difficulty: Intermediate
Fabric Used: Carolina blue chambray linen from Fabric Mart
Does it look like the photo/drawing on the pattern envelope? Yes
Were the instructions easy to follow? Yes and there's always the sewalong video
Did I make in alterations? no
Would I sew it again? Maybe I could see a dressier tuxedo version.
Would I recommend it to others? Yes