Thursday, June 3, 2010

Burda Style 11-2009-120 - Black & white tweed skirt

This was almost instant gratification for me, only taking 2 days start to finish. That could have something to do with the fact that I didn't have ONE fit issue. Burda must have had my measurements in mind when they drafted this pattern. I didn't even have to add anything to the waist for my square shape! This tweed is from JoAnn's Venice collection bought last fall when it was marked down 50% off. I almost bought it in purple as well, but now am glad I passed. Details are incredibly hard to see, as are any stitches, making mistakes hard to rip out. Can you make out the double front pleat and patch pockets? They are a bit easier to see in person, though.

No hem allowance was added so that the bottom of the skirt hits me right above the knees.


The pockets extend up to become belt loops and are sewn on invisibly by hand. They are purely decorative; there is no way to get your hand in there as the opening is too small.

I like the fact that the full lining is flat across the front. This will result in minimal flair-out of the front pleat when I walk.

Here's the first top I paired it with, made two springs ago. It did not photograph well at all. (Perhaps it's the sharp contrast of white with black? I don't pretend to know much about photography.)

Then I had some fun playing dress-up. One of the hardest things for me about being pregnant is not being able to wear my normal clothing. They feel like friends to me, now sadly neglected. Perhaps it cheers them up a little to be given a brief airing. Hey! I see you rolling your eyes at me!

This red sweater is my notorious Christmas outfit. I always wear it either Christmas Eve or Christmas day. I think this year I'll have to make myself something else for some variety. It's a little embarrassing to have on the exact same outfit year after year in pictures.

We're off to the lake for a long weekend to celebrate Justin's grandmother's 90th birthday. I hope you all have a fabulous weekend as well!

21 comments:

  1. No eye rolling here, just smiling...you are such a girl!! I am having fun just watching you play dress up. You will love having those new clothes after the baby is born. The skirt is really cute and versatile. Enjoy your weekend :)

    ReplyDelete
  2. I love the square pockets and that fabric you used will be so versatile with so many things. You are so dedicated to make this when you are pregnant. I don't know that I could do it. How hard, not to be able to try it on and just love it to pieces. I can't wait to see these lovely garments modeled! So darling! Happy weekending!

    ReplyDelete
  3. I love this skirt too and also have a rather square shape. Are you making any maternity clothes?

    ReplyDelete
  4. Love your skirt. Have fun playing dress-ups. :)

    ReplyDelete
  5. Love your skirt! Playing dress up is so much fun:)

    ReplyDelete
  6. Love your new skirt - it looks fantastic with red!
    Oh to play real (un-pregnant) dress-ups - just as well you have a body double for now!

    ReplyDelete
  7. My mom has worn her Christmas Sweater every year for DECADES now (it is a nice one, black/red/green cardigan in some kind of textured stitch). So long as you claim it's a tradition you can get away with it. Unless, of course, you're looking for a reason to make something new.

    ReplyDelete
  8. Very cute! I like it with your Christmas sweater. I have a Christmas suit, since I'm usually working the holiday as a musician, and I was just thinking I need to make something new this year - people are starting to expect it!

    ReplyDelete
  9. Terrific skirt! It is so versatile-obviously!

    ReplyDelete
  10. I remember how much I liked this pattern when the magazine came out but, sigh, I never did get around to it! I'm glad that you have because, of course, yours looks fabulous. I love the fabric - tweed skirts are so wonderful and, as you demonstrate, yours works perfectly with so many different tops. BTW your Christmas sweater is gorgeous, you can't beat red sparkle for seasonal glamour!

    ReplyDelete
  11. Great skirt! It's so versatile! Haha.. I bought the purple tweed... originally to make something for my mother-in-law, but now I'm not too sure.

    ReplyDelete
  12. I love the fabric that you chose to do this skirt in. It looks great. Nothing like building a new wardrobe.

    ReplyDelete
  13. Great skirt, Amanda! I really like it with the belt that ties.

    ReplyDelete
  14. I love seeing pictures of the skirt with different tops - it's both lovely and versatile!

    ReplyDelete
  15. That turned out great! I especially love it with the belt that ties. I'm glad you have a dressform for playing dress up - sounds like the timing couldn't have been better. :)

    ReplyDelete
  16. Great skirt! I can see it worn with sooooo much! Love your fabric choice too!

    ReplyDelete
  17. Details may be hard to see, but that's one luxurious-looking skirt from what I see in the pictures. The dress-up shots on your regular double looks like a lot of fun too:).

    ReplyDelete
  18. Love it! Your looks are great. I'm envisioning a white or lavendar top. I also love golds, pinky reds or silvers for Xmas, because as you said, red is predictable. Ok, let me stop owing your skirt now! LOL!

    ReplyDelete
  19. Hi Amanda

    I just wanted to take the opportunity to say I am very inspired by the care you take in making all your garment and especially the fninishing touch.
    I mentionned you recently on my newly-started blog. I'd love for you to take a look at my recent projects and share any advice you might have.
    Thanks for the sewing inspiration !
    Petite Josette
    http://petitejosette.blogspot.com/

    ReplyDelete