Simplicity 8890 - Cropped Trench Jacket & Slip Dress!

12:00 AM

Simplicity 8890 - Erica Bunker DIY Style!

I love separates. And this is probably my first time, if not, then the pattern wasn't very memorable -- that I sewed more than one piece from an outfit/wardrobe type pattern. What I love about this pattern is, the pieces aren't matchy-matchy. They don't necessarily go together, but they definitely work. You get a super cute and sexy backless slip dress, topped with a cropped trench jacket. It feels like you're wearing a great dress and you reach for your favorite jacket on your way out the door.

Utility dressing is a big ass deal this spring. You can't go in any store or look on any retail site without seeing something with trench and cargo details or boiler suits. It's what's currently popping. So, when I saw Mimi's pattern - Simplicity 8890, I knew that I needed it. I'm someone who mostly prefers a jacket to a sweater as a topper, so this is kinda perfect and right up my alley.

For the cropped trench, I found the perfect fabric at Hobby Lobby. It's a Khaki Solid Twill that's 100% cotton. And it sews beautifully. I cut the size 16 and I added an inch to the length.

It has beautiful trench details like these great epaulets and wonderful edge stitching and top stitching.

I lined the underside of the flap with plaid Burberry-esque fabric.

And since the jacket is unlined, I did a Hong Kong finish.

I foresee lots and lots of wear out of this jacket.

Let's go ahead and get the elephant in the room question out of the way, so we can all move on in peace: I'm not wearing a bra, so no point in asking what kind. Do your own research and find options that work you. Y'all wear me out every single time I post something backless...

My fabric is bold, colorful and quite amazing. It's an Orange Abstract Ikat and Floral Stretch Polyester from Mood Fabrics.com. It's basically an ITY knit. The pattern recommends silky type wovens. But I'm always a rebel!

Change of fabric type didn't require any changes to the pattern. I made my normal lengthening alteration. I added 3 inches to the hem. The back is my favorite detail. It has adjustable straps.

To relieve some of the fullness and to add definition at the waist, I used the drawstrings from the back and tied them in front.

So, I'm going to enjoy rocking these two new pieces in my wardrobe this spring.

Erica Bunker

32 comments

leannslessons10:27 AM
This is a gorgeous outfit! I really love the length of the dress, I think the way it hits the middle of your knee is just sexy, so much more than what I see in ready to wear which is lengths only l6 year olds look good in, and some of them not even. The fabric choice for the dress is just lovely and the details of the jacket are a perfect counterpoint. Well done!
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SheriNJ1:12 PM
This outfit is fantastic!!! I want both pieces, but more than that, I want them to look like this on me too!!! Love, love, love!!!
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Lisa4:50 PM
I love this take on the trenchcoat trend. Your jacket and coat makes are always my favourites Erica, you do such a beautiful job of them!
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Unknown4:54 PM
You look awesome in this outfit! You totally SLAYED this! Grreat Job!

Kimberly Wilkes
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Nancy K6:04 PM
The contrast between the slinky, flowing dress with the more tailored jacket. Spectacular and I do love a good Hong Kong finish.
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Madam Too Much7:38 PM
Love this jacket and that DRESS!!! So fabulous on You. You are such an Inspiration. .
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Tatsdent12:40 AM
Woweee, you look stunning. I would not have thought the jacket and dress would work together but they look awesome. An amazing outfit.
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Unknown12:55 AM
Yes! What everybody else has said. You will rock it no doubt.
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Inés12:52 PM
Super cute!, That sewing perfection in your jacket, a beauty. The dress very cute. Ahhh every time I read you added 3” to length I sigh and fantasize....that would be nice. I’m a shorty. ;)
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frances newcombe2:27 PM
You constantly amaze and inspire me so much you have no idea.
I keep wishing I had a million dollars to fly to you and have you give me a few sewing classes.
Beautiful as always!!!!!!
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Sharon3:37 PM
Fabulous! I just cut this pattern out last night. Thanks for inspiring me to push this up in my sewing queue! My jacket will be white.
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Vanessa10:12 PM
You look amazing!!! The jacket is perfect, and I love all the details. You are right, utility is a big deal right now, and I know you will love wearing it over and over. The dress is spectacular. I love them both together or separate!!!!
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Yindaare12:57 AM
Très joli ! :)
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Roman4:47 AM
Awesome look!
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bpatricia747:45 PM
Yes!!! Another fantastic look. When I first saw this MimiG pattern I knew that it was a must have for me. It looks great on you. I love the khaki jacket; the length and the style of it, and the dress is oh so fabulous. Cheers to you for another fabulous look.
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catnipcorners11:30 AM
The outfit is great, but what did you do about a bra. The back is to low for a strapless bra and I can’t go without something to hold me in the front. What did you do?
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