Hello everyone! As I sit here, writing this blog post, in the back of my mind is everything that I have scheduled to do this week. I’m literally booked everyday this week, with something on my calendar. It has been quite a while since I’ve scheduled myself so tightly. You see, I’ve learned the importance of leaving a margin, so that I have room to breath and relax. Needles to say, I’m not digging what I’ve done to myself this week. Also, the margin is important so that I may have some flexibility when there’s an unexpected need. Years ago, when I became aware of the need for this margin, I did some house cleaning of commitments in my life. I’ve been able to maintain a healthy balance since then, until this week. One thing I can say for sure is this, if we’re not careful, we can schedule our lives away, look back, and before we know it, we’ve missed out on the most important things in life–the things God has blessed us with, that we must nurture–faith, family, and friends. Encouragement for today: Don’t allow yourself to get so busy that you don’t leave a margin for what’s most important in your life.
Spring Shirt Dress
OMGosh!, I am in love with this Spring Shirt Dress. It is so incredibly comfortable that I must have at least two more. It’s perfect for wearing around the house, out to lunch or dinner, to the grocery store, to church, and the list goes on. It was an easy sew, but I wouldn’t recommend it if you’re new to sewing, as it requires sewing a covered placket, and the instructions may be a bit confusing. Mimi has a video tutorial that you can follow to make this dress, and that will help if you want to make it right away. You can find it on YouTube by typing in Mimi G. Style Simplicity 8084 (thanks Brenda). I’m sorry, but I don’t remember where I purchased this fabric. It’s been in my stash for quite a while. I believe it has to be from either Michael Levine’s Fabrics or JoAnn’s Fabrics. It’s an ITY knit. The next time I make this dress, I’ll probably use a woven fabric and I’ll definitely lengthen the hem, so that I can wear it with heels. I meant to lengthen this one but I forgot during my pattern prep work. I really like the casual look with the flat sandals too.
Create the Look
- Pattern = Mimi G. Style Simplicity 8084 (View A)
- Fabric = My Stash
- Handbag = Crocheted by me
Beginner’s Sewing Kit Give-Away
If you will be joining the Beginner’s Sewing Course, make sure you check out the video I posted last Friday HERE, and enter for a chance to win the beginner’s sewing kit that will help you get started with your sewing journey. Today is the last day to enter. The winner will be announced here on the Blog, this Friday, April 8th. Also, don’t forget to subscribe below for email updates. That way you will be notified as soon as new lessons are posted. I look forward to sewing with you.
What about you?
Do you leave margin in your life? Are you a fan of shirt dresses?
Thanks for stopping by!
Remember: When you live in your DESIGN, it is from there that God SHINES!
Anita
All Photos Courtesy of CEMO!
Beautiful!!!
Hi, made this dress for a friend last week, she love it
Wore it to her family reunion
Awesome! It’s so comfortable!
Pingback: Graduation Dress - Simplicity 8013 – Anita by Design
AMAZING!! I am going to tackle this pattern this weekend. I’ve tried a few shirt dresses (unsuccessfully), but this one looks very figure flattering and I appreciate that there is a video to go with it. Great job.
Yes! Have fun sewing it up!
Hi Ms.Anita,
Quick question for you: what adjustments did you make, as far as sizing to adjust for using an ITY instead of the recommended fabrics? I’m a first-timer here and from looking at your posts I’m loving what I’m seeing.
Hi Kandace! I looked at the front pattern pieces to see what the finished measurements would be and chose the size to cut based on those measurements.
I forgot to hit submit yesterday. Oh well. I justed wanted to say that you are an inspiration to me. You taught yourself how to sew from watching tutorials – so, I figured that I could too.
I really enjoy reading your blog weekly. I always look forward to your next masterpiece. This is certainly a gift that you possess. I also enjoy the spiritual fellowship you write in your blog. You are such an encourager. I can tell by reading and talking with you that you have a passion for Jesus.
Also, I want to say that I have always wanted to learn to sew; but was afraid to try.
Hey Debbie! I’m so glad to have you join the sewing course. I believe my tutorials will be simple enough to help you get over the fear of trying. You really have nothing to lose. Even when you make mistakes, and you will, you’re learning. Make sure you remember this: Mistakes are not failures. Mistakes are lessons. I become better with each mistake I make. So just jump in with me. I believe you can do this. Let’s go, sista!
Love the pattern and I love your print! I can’t wait to jump into this pattern. Great job!
Thanks Michelle! I can’t WAIT to see what you do with it. I know you’re gonna kill it, especially with your fabric choice. You’re the master of creativity in sewing.
Anita, Your dress is very nice and comfy looking too but I’m digging that purse just as much as the dress it is super cute!!! and you made it too? Well, go head on with your crafty self, I love it. Thanks for sharing.
LOL! Thanks Sharon! Before I got back into sewing, I learned to crochet and went crazy making purses. Now I don’t have time for crochet because of sewing. LOL!
great job thanks for being consistence (post on Wednesdays) I look forward to your post. Thanks again can’t wait for the class
You’re welcome, Tiffany! My goal is to be consistent. I will try my best to keep with it.
Fabulous sis I love it! Great job! You are making it real hard to keep up with all this SLAYERATION YOU GO GOING ON OVER HERE!
Hugs
Shari
MyDailyThreadz
Hey, Shari! You’re back! Hope you had a nice trip. Thank you, sis!
Love the dress
Thank you Liz!
As always, beautiful Anita.
Thank you Brenda!
So cute. I love the dress and the fabric!
Thank you Sheila!
Beautiful. Love the fabric choice
Thank you Avis!
YES MA’AM!!! Yeeeees Ma’am!!!That fabric does. it. for. me.!!! You did it again Ms. Anita!!! Now I gotta go because I see I’m going to have to schedule a stop to Joanne’s to pick this one up!! !LOLLOL Thanks for another great post!!
-Su
LOLOLOL! Thank you Su! Have fun sewing it up girl!
Love this dress! what’s a covered placket?? I’m sad to hear this wouldn’t be good for a beginner.
Mimi has videos to go with her patterns. The placket step should be in there. She’s very thorough with her videos. Good Luck!
Thank you so much Brenda for that reminder. I will go add that information to this blog post right away.
Very cute, Anita!! I love that fabric!! What kind of fabric is it?
Thanks Yvette! It’s an ITY knit.
Love, love, love! This is why I have begun my new journey of sewing!
Awesome! Enjoy the journey!
Beautiful
Thank you Domonique!