2-PIECE LINEN SET | NEW LOOK 6163
Adding separates to my new wardrobe is a must. I think it’s the best way to expand my options. While very simple, this 2-Piece Linen Set is a representation of the direction I’m going with rebuilding my wardrobe. I’ve come to the realization that a big part of why my old wardrobe wasn’t as cohesive and functional was because I was too engaged in sewing garments for “Wow factor.” Now, don’t get me wrong, I will still be adding “Wow” garments to my wardrobe. However, what I need most in the beginning of the rebuilding process are garments that accommodate my everyday lifestyle. I need outfits for church, meetings, lounging at home, lunch and dinner dates, and running errands–everyday living. And I want the bulk of my wardrobe to consist of pieces that cross over into all these categories.
Pattern Information
NEW LOOK 6163 is a great pattern to consider if you’re wardrobe building or planning a vacation wardrobe capsule. It comes with four pieces that can mix and match very well with each other. The pattern comes with Pants, Top, Skirt, and Jacket. It is currently available on the website in paper option only, with sizes ranging from 8 – 18. The pants (View D) have straight legs, back darts, waistband, and side zipper. The top (View B) is sleeveless with side bust darts, a squared front neckline and side slits. The skirt (View C) has an A-line cut with a side zipper, back waist darts, and waistband. Finally, the jacket (View A) has long sleeves, side bust darts, side slits, and a collar stand.
I sewed the pants and top. Here are closeup photos of my pieces.
Fabric Information
The fabric suggestions for the jacket, pants and skirt are; Cotton and Cotton Blends, Lightweight Denim, Linen and Linen Blends, Crepe, and Laundered Silks/Rayons. Suggestions for the top are; Silks and Silk types, Jacquards, Soft Cotton and Cotton Blends. The skirt can also be sewn with Crepe De Chine. I used this beautiful TEXTURED VISCOSE LINEN from Core Fabrics. It’s super soft against the body and perfect for the pants and top. The Viscose helps to tone down the wrinkling that is characteristic of 100% linen. Unfortunately, the rose color is not available on the website but there are lots of other colors available.
You can get 10% off any fabrics at corefabricstore.com by using my code: ANITA10. The code does not apply to sale items.
Inside the Garment
I used my Baby Lock Chorus sewing machine to sew all the seams and Baby Lock Vibrant Serger to finish the seam allowances. If you’d like to learn more about the CHORUS SEWING MACHINE, I’ve just launched a new YouTube Series where I’m going through the entire machine to share what it’s capable of doing for you. There is also a YouTube Series for the VIBRANT SERGER. Now, let’s take a look at the insides of the garments.
Notions Information
The notions requirements are three hook & eye closures for the jacket (optional); One 3/8″ button for the pants; and one 7″ zipper and hook and eye closure for the pants and skirt.
Alterations Information
I cut a Size 8 on the pants and didn’t have to make any alterations, except sewing a center back zipper instead of a side zipper. That was a personal choice. Oh my gosh! That’s a huge bonus. The last pair of pants I made with New Look fit me right out the package too. I can’t wait to sew another one of their pants patterns to see if this is the norm for my body and their fitted pants designs.
I didn’t make any pattern alterations on the top but I did use different cutting lines to get my desired fit. I cut a Size 8 at the bodice neckline and armhole, and a Size 10 at center front fold and side seams (front & back). I mirrored these cuts on the bodice facings to match the bodice.
I do want to bring something to your attention. Take a look at the back bodice. There is a dent at the center back near the neckline. This is the result of tacking the bodice facing to the bodice too tightly. It was an easy fix by removing the hand tack and replacing it with a looser stitch.
Update: I forgot to mention that the top does come with an opening and button closure at center back. I wasn’t following the pattern instructions and totally forgot the leave that opening. I decided to leave it as is and become a contortionist to pull the top on. 😂 Anyway, it’s not too bad, but the opening will make it easier to get into your top.
Styling Options
Although there are many styling options for these pieces, I stayed simple by wearing a pair of beige pumps, a crossbody bag, and silver jewelry. Here are more photos of the set, both with and without the purse.
I plan to style it with a lightweight sweater or jacket for church. It would look nice with low heel sandals for lunch dates. I can throw on a blazer to dress it up for meetings. And of course, I will mix it with other items in my closet.
What do you think?
Do you sew for your needs or are you the “Wow Factor” sewing type? I’m both now and I’m okay with it. I would love to hear your feedback. Scroll to the very bottom of this page to leave a comment.
Thank you for stopping by today! 💕
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This Post Has 56 Comments
I found your videos on YouTube when I was struggling with my new babylock Vibrant serger. Your tutorials were a lifesaver! I am serging up a storm now. Thank you for all you do 🙂
That’s awesome Sara! I’m so glad to hear you’re using your serger. You’ve very welcome.
You wrote this blog just for me. I’ve had this pattern for a while and never made anything from it. Your wardrobe needs sound like my personal thoughts. Thanks for the insight and the motivation. ☺️❤️
Oh my goodness, Carol! I’m so glad you resonated with this blog post. You’re gonna love this pattern. And I’m happy to meet someone with the same wardrobe needs. 🤗 Let’s get it done! 💕
I have been looking to make a top like yours. Hoping I can still get this pattern. I just finished making linen pants myself and that would be the perfect top to compliment it. I thought I was the only one who did that kind of waist band, but that’s what I’ve been doing with waist bands for pants. I hate the thick high waisted bands so I now make bias tape out of the same material and use that for a waist band. This way it sits right where I’d like it to on my waist. Can’t wait for your sew along on this pattern. Is it easy to get the top on and off? I notice there is no zipper. Can you put in a zipper if you’d like?
Hi Barbara! It’s a great pattern! It’s still available on their website if you don’t find it in your local fabric store. I actually didn’t think I would like the small waistband because I prefer wider bands. But I really like the band on these pants. It’s very comfortable. Don’t you just LOVE how we can customize our garments to meet our needs and desires. Changing out a waistband is one of these things that makes me happy that I know how to sew my own clothes.
Yes, my top takes some extra movements to pull over my body, but not too difficult. I totally forgot to mention that the top comes with an opening at the back neckline with a button closure. I wasn’t paying attention to the directions and forgot to leave the opening. You can definitely add a center back zipper since there is a seam there. Even if there wasn’t, you could add a 5/8″ seam allowance to the back to create a center seam and install a zipper.
I try to sew for everyday wear. I usually end up sewing spring/summer items since that is my favorite time of the year. But I am slowly picking up sewing for fall and winter.
My biggest difficulty is finding my color scheme for each season.
Hi Ann! Oh my goodness! Isn’t it so tempting to sew everything around our favorite seasons? 😂 I’ve been there too.
I love coordinating pieces like this. I’m glad you mentioned the top back seam/ At first I thought it was a very small zipper. It looks beautiful on you.
Thank you so much, Maureen. 💕
What a beautiful set. I appreciate that you show the inside of your garment.
My kind of outfit!! I love pieces I can coordinate with other pieces in my wardrobe. This shade of pink is great for hot weather and can be coordinated with so many cool colors. Isn’t it something how simple pieces can look so elegant? It will be a treat to see how you coordinate these pieces in the future. Great sew!!
Yes, De! I really look forward to wearing these pieces with cooler colors too. 🤗
Beautiful set and amazing fit.
Thank you Anita! I especially appreciate the inside-out views. It’s so helpful to see an expertly -finished garment from the inside-out. A question/request:
I noticed that you made cutting adjustments to the top based on your measurements. It would be enormously helpful for me to see a picture of the pattern top with your adjustments so that i can see what you did.
Thank you for your outstanding teaching, entrepreneurship, vision, and love. I so appreciate it! Angela
Hi Angela! I will have to remember to show the pattern pieces next time when I cut on different lines on a single pattern piece.
You did a lovely job.
A classic!
Anita, I love this pink outfit on you. Gorgeous! The pattern is a good price too! Thank you for sharing!
Anita, you the greatest! Sometimes I get stuck when my project is not going the way I envisioned it, so I get discouraged and I put sewing down for a while. I’m kind for a perfectionist, it’s a must that my garment inside looks as polished as the outside so, all it takes is for me to watch one of your tutorials or videos to get back on track. Your sewing style is impeccable and when I follow your tutorials my garment comes out flawless as well. Wishing you God’s continued blessing.
P.S I see those sculptured arms girl, looking good!
Hi Barbara! Isn’t it satisfying to create clean seams and insides? It blesses my heart to know that you get inspired by my tutorials. God bless you too.
I couldn’t agree more. I have found if you take your time along with patience and don’t rush, It will come out amazing. If I start getting tired or frustrated. I tell myself to stop and continue the next day when your head is clearer. You are an inspiration to us all to slow down and have patience. 😉 I’ve also learned from you how pressing is SO very important!! By the way I love your steam iron!!
Anita.. What a beautiful make… So simple in design element yet so beautifully worr in so many different ways. As a member of Core Comunity I did use my discount and ordered more of this fabric in various colors. Thanks for again the inspiration. Your style is so me.
Thank you so much, Diane! Yes! So glad you used your discount. I can’t wait to wear this outfit over and over again. 🤗
Don’t you find it hard buying fabric on line? I love touching the fabric and getting an idea of how it will flow and is it a soft feeling fabric. We are very limited to fabric stores where I live sadly 🙁 The only store we have is JoAnn Fabrics and I have been very disappointed with their store with the up keep on the fabrics. Laying on the floor and not put up on the shelves. I would love an on line fabric store that won’t break the bank. Miss the good old days when fabric was 1.99 a yard 😛
Beautiful! I would LOVE a video tutorial for this pattern! Personally, I would pay for a tutorial❤️
I’m not sure yet, but I’m thinking about doing a YouTube tutorial on these pieces.
Beautiful inside and out as are all your sewn garments. Such lovely fabric and color, which goes great with your skin tone. So pretty!! I am in awe of how much sewing you get done and how precisely you do it. Your clothes fit you to a “T”.
Thank you so much, Eileen! 💕
Yup! The color is gorgeous on you! Absolutely love it. So excited you are sewing with Linen types! I also had an Ah-ha moment over your fabulous facing. Since it also surrounds the armhole it probably stays in place. I have had so may issues with facings that I bought a Sashiko to emulate a perfect handstitch.
Hi Elizabeth! I love this kind of facing because it really does stay in place. AND, I didn’t have to understitch.
All I can say is that I want to be you in my next life! At the very least I want to be your next door neighbor. 🙂 Some day you will have to post a picture of your closet with your handbags and shoes. I am always amazed at how you have the perfect accessories for every outfit!
Thank you Linda! 💕 Accessorizing is just as much fun as sewing the garments, for me. 🤗
Anita,
Once again, beautifully executed and worn. I love this monochrometic outfit and can easily see each piece paired with other colored garments as well. You have great eye for what works for you; and that in excellent taste.
I applaud your talent, my friend. Great work!
~Cornelia
Thank you, Cornelia! Knowing my personal style and being intentional about my choices is really helping as I rebuild my wardrobe.
Anita!
You are outstanding! Thank you for sharing the whole process, as so much goes into any garment that works! I, too, am always jumping from one dazzling project to the next, but have been concentrating on things I really feel good wearing!
My latest find is the ultra comfy and cute Nova Jumpsuit from True Bias. So easy to wear, one piece and you are put together, and it is great for both lounging and going out!!! Check it out.
Oh yes, the Nova Jumpsuit is a cutie. I don’t have it yet but may grab it one day. It looks super comfortable.
Hi Anita. I am truly in love with this outfit. The color, the fabric and the amazing fit. I also like the placement of the zipper. Wonderful job
Thank you, Edna! I’m glad to hear that you love it too. 🤗
Very Pretty Anita! I declare you’re looking Younger each time you post. God Bless You!
Awww! Thank you so much, Dara! I’m feeling so good and healthy.🤗
Hi Anita
Your choice of fabric and color are lovely on you. The fit is perfect. I’m going to try a New Look pants pattern to see if I can get the same easy fit as you did. Lovely.
Barb
Thank you Barb! Have fun sewing your New Look pants. I hope your alterations will be limited too.
the outfit is so fabulous on you. I love the clean look on the insides of all your garments. I’m going to try New Look for my next pair of pants, maybe I will have a better fit as well. I will let you know. Thanks again .
Also, Im thinking about purchasing a baby lock, which one do you recommend for a beginner? What are the basic serger thread colors to purchase?
Hi Sharon! Have fun trying out New Look pants patterns. Baby Lock has a line of machines for beginners called Genuine Collection. Any of their machines are top quality. Here’s a link to the collection. You will see the Zeal Sewing Machine which is the one I use in my Beginners Sewing Course. But there are several options to choose from based on your needs. Make sure you use my code SAVE10-AAM4 to get 10% off your purchase.
Hi Anita, again a beautiful set. I have been wondering, does your day have 48 hours? It’s unbelievable what you sew. So many items. I love them all. Love from The Netherlands.
Agree, Kitty. She is amazing in the amount of products she produces. So inspiring!
Thank you so much, Kitty! I’m actually a slow sewist but I have a lot of time to sew. That makes me happy. 🤗
Hi Anita,
These are beautiful pieces and you look lovely in them. They would take you to so many occasions, both casual and more formal as well as being able to mix and match with other garments. I think the clean streamlined designs are so classy. I love making items that I can wear on a day to day basis, as well as being able to dress them up. I am fairly new to sewing and absolutely love it, to the point where I feel really cheated if I can’t spend even a little time each day sewing, or reading about sewing! I have only made a few simple items so far, but I am so proud of them that they do have the ‘wow factor for me!”
As always, thank you for photographing the interiors of the pieces; I find it so helpful to know what something should look like inside and it feels so good to wear something which you know to be polished on the inside.
Kindest regards,
Jill x
Hi Jill! I LOVE that you consider everything you make to be “wow factor.” Oh, I love that so much. And you are absolutely right! To be able to sew your own garments is totally WOW! I remember when I couldn’t wrap my mind around how to take a flat piece of fabric and turn it into a wearable garment. I used to be so in awe of people who sewed their own clothes. And now that I’m one of those people, it really is a “WOW.” Thank you for sharing your perspective.
I’m really glad to hear that you enjoy seeing the insides of the pieces. 💕
Oh I love this!
Looks very comfortable
Carefully thought out, perfectly sewn and beautiful on you as always! Yes, separates are what I usually make because they are so versatile and yield the best results for my sewing time and effort – this is the type of thing I wear to church, too – dresses are beautiful but kind of a “one trick pony” as I am retired and don’t need work clothes so they are not worn as often as things that mix and match and can be dressed up or down – your linen tank would be great with shorts, for example, or a pretty skirt, and that’s the kind of versatility I am looking for. Thank you for sharing this post – you are so lucky to get a fit like that in pants right out of the envelope!!!
Hi Mary Jean! I like the way you think. I’m glad you enjoyed the post.
Beautiful outfits and the colour really suits you. The pants fit perfectly on your fabulous figure.
REALLY BEAUTIFUL !!
Anita, I enjoy reading your blog and photos. So exquisite for you! I am also trying to figure out a more casual wardrobe that is not sweats and t-shirts. I enjoy wearing sweats but not out in public. I do have a question–what serger thread do you use and where do you get it? Thanks!
Thank you, Carol! I use Coats & Clark cone threads in my serger. I’m not brand loyal, but that’s what I have in my thread collection.