Review: Vogue 1387 | Transitional Basics!
9:45 AM
I've been needing to fill in the blanks in my closet with classic "go-to" pieces for a while now. And what better time than transitional wardrobe season with classic black and white.
I love white shirts and white blouses. The more interesting, the better... a not-so basic "basic" you could say. This Rebecca Taylor Vogue 1387 blouse is perfect. It's great for layering under a jacket now and perfect on its own for the warmer months.
I chose this beautiful Carolina Herrera single-ply silk crepe from Mood Fabrics because it reminded me of the original designer garment. And what a great choice this was!
This fabric was so easy to work with, that I forgot it was silk! I pre-washed it in hot water and machine dried it on full blast heat. And pressed it afterwards. There was minimal shrinkage. It cut perfectly and remained on the grain. With the exception of my normal one inch lengthening at the waist, this pattern was practically sewn straight out of the envelope.
I used French seams of course, and a narrow hem. The way the yoke is sewn, I had to do some hand stitching there. And the center front is tacked down. And an interesting design element is the underarm insets. This one is a winner. I would love to have this fabric in several more colors, just so I could make this blouse again.
For the pants, I used Simplicity 1887, that I had previously used. I picked this beautiful medium weight black wool crepe from Mood Fabrics that's perfect for wearing in the springtime. I wanted a pair of pleated, black, slouchy pants that had a semi-tailored, but casual feel. Like I can dress these up if I need to! The only additional changes I made this time was to add about an inch or so to the length so that they would "pool" at the ankle. And I tapered the leg down to a 13" opening. If you would've told me a few years ago that I would be going gaga over a pair of pleated, tapered leg pants -- I would've thought you to be touched in the head! LOL This fabric sewed like a dream. I could see this wool crepe being used to make all sorts of wardrobe staples not only for trousers, but for a sheath dress, a blazer and a pencil skirt.
Worn with my McCall's 5766 houndstooth coat.
So if you're choosing to make basic garments, choose beautiful fabrics and allow them to be the stars!
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42 comments
Thanks so much for this post, Erica. I too am focusing on adding some basics to my wardrobe. I just love your blog so much as I have learned so much about different types of fabrics I haven't been exposed to. Thanks for sharing your passion
ReplyDeleteThanks M. Inez for being a long-time devoted reader!
DeleteI have made those simplicity 1887 pants for lounging and thought they would transition well to casual pants; thank you!
ReplyDeleteAhhh that top. I am so glad I rushed out to buy that pattern when it was released. It is definitely in my queue. It looks amazing.
And you can NEVER go wrong with black and white!
Thanks Nakisha!
DeleteYour necklace says what I think! Perfect outfit!
ReplyDeleteThanks Immi!
DeleteIt's gorgeous!! I bought this pattern recently and was planning on making it up sometime soon - glad to hear it's a winner. Do you mind me asking how tall you are? I'm 5'8" with a long torso and tend to have to lengthen the waists, too.
ReplyDeleteI'm 5'9.75". Thanks Crab and Bee!
DeleteOh wow... I had assumed that we were close in height, but I'm 5'11".
DeleteI'm always in heels Grace, so I'm always over 6'0!
DeleteI knew it was a silk by that gorgeous drape! You wear it beautifully. I'm a bit jealous of your pants after description of the fabric. :o)
ReplyDeletewww.dressupnotdown.blogspot.com
I would love to own an entire bolt of that wool crepe! Thanks DressUpNotDown!
DeleteThis is a beautiful ensemble--so classy and chic! I love your hair btw!!!!
ReplyDeleteI just purchased some gorgeous silks to make this top. I think I got three or four different colors lol
ReplyDeleteThis top would be great in all colors!
DeleteI so very love this top! I can't wait to get started... I just need some silk crepe for starters. Would you use any other fabric? I have some lovely emerald washed silk in my stash that could be a contender.
ReplyDeleteI couldn't imagine this top sewn in anything other than silk. But if I had to pick another option, it would be cotton voile. Thanks Grace!
DeleteThis is a must sew for me now. So logical. Well done
ReplyDeleteThanks Dei!
DeleteBeautiful top as always. Black and white is so classic and chic. Quick question -why did you pre-wash in hot water and dry on high?
ReplyDeleteYou have to pre-shrink the fabric before you cut it. I needed to thoroughly make sure the top won't shrink after I wash it. Thanks Edris!
DeleteBased on the type of fabric I was thinking pre washing on cold and air drying or low temp drying. Good tip to ensure no future shrinking.
DeleteNo, the goal is to try and shrink the fabric as much as possible before you cut it!
DeleteThis is a very stylish outfit. The pattern is great, especially providing two styles in one.
ReplyDeleteLove that top!! I bought the pattern for the long sleeve version but maybe I'll venture over to the sleeveless side... :-)
ReplyDeleteThanks Divamazon!
DeleteLove the entire look. I agree, I love a basic garment with great details.
ReplyDeleteThanks Kelroc!
DeleteLove the look. You always do such an amazing job. Love your blog!
ReplyDeleteThanks Roberta!
DeleteSimply stunning (as always).
ReplyDeleteI'm in the middle of making 1387 myself, but I'm struggling with the underarm insets. Hopefully I'll have a light-bulb moment soon :)
Sometimes you have to step away and it all makes sense. It's really simple and if you give it a moment, it'll make sense to you. Thanks Jennifer!
DeleteI can see in my mind how it's supposed to look, so that's hopeful at least :)
DeleteAs always, Erica, this top is jaw-dropping beautiful! The fabric chosen is awesome. Must pick up this pattern, never noticed it before.
ReplyDeleteThanks Brenda!
DeleteThis one is a must have for our spring and summers here in the Deep South. After seeing yours, I bought the pattern and have it on the cutting table right now. This is a good project to cut out and gather the notions and the threads,.After transferring the pattern markings and changing out the thread color on the machine I will be working on this one next. Thanks for inspiring me!
ReplyDeleteThanks Juliane!
DeleteLove this. Here is why you inspire me. 1. Your love for sophisticated sexy. You totally get it. 2. Your sewing skills are off the charts (Can you clone your skills?) 3. Your choice in fabric. You clearly don't mind spending money on high-end, luxe fabric...I think it makes a world of difference in the outcome of the construction. You garments look like they come straight out of an high-end department store. 4. You know what works for you! Stay fabulous!
ReplyDeleteThanks so much Natasha!
DeleteErica, thanks so much for making this blouse. First it looks gorgeous on you!
ReplyDeleteI have the pattern and just got fabric for a muslin. I hope mine looks as good
as yours. I enjoy your blog and sewing inspiration.
I just bought that blouse pattern and I am glad to see how amazing your version is! Hopefully I can get a similar fabric. It looks fab with those beautiful pants!!
ReplyDeleteI am seriously considering this sort of pants; I'll look into this pattern. Like you, I would not have believed that I'd even consider tapered pants again! What a crazy world. :)
ReplyDelete