Happy Wednesday Everyone!
Today is such an exciting day for me, as I’m launching the start of my first Anita by Design Collection, I was inspired by Brittany of BRITTANY J. JONES and Emily of EMILY HALLMAN DESIGNS, who have both created amazing Collections. Brittany just completed her first Collection with a black and yellow color scheme. Oh gosh, you just have to see it. I love every piece she incorporated into the Collection and how well they all fit together. She even added a dress for her cute little daughter, Justice.
Emily has sewn a number of Collections and this lady is a beast with that machine. When I tell you she sews perfect stitches, I’m not exaggerating even a little. She has an amazing talent and blows me away every time with her attention to detail and bright, colorful fabric choices. Her latest Black & White Collection just takes my breath away.
I am so inspired by both these ladies who are killing the sewing game. While I can’t sew as much right now, I can certainly get my fix from watching Brittany and Emily. They have amazing Blogs and beautiful personalities.
Upon seeing their collections, I became very excited to follow their examples and give this a try. I think it’s such a great idea to sew a collection because, as Brittany says, “it really does promote focused sewing,” rather than always creating aimlessly with no sense of order in mind. And more than ever before, I NEED focus and order in my life.
I’m disgusted with my casual wardrobe, which is pretty much non-existent. Seriously , I have barely any casual clothes in my closet. I’m wearing the same thing over and over and this has to change. I remember when I decided to stop buying ready-to-wear because I wanted to sew all of my own clothes. So as I started to get rid of old items that I either wasn’t wearing or could no longer fit into, I wasn’t replacing them because I was too busy sewing more dressy pieces. Now, here I am, stuck with only two pairs of jeans that need replacing and a few pairs of old sweats, and I still refuse to go out and buy clothes. Hahaha! Hey, I’m stubborn that way.
Therefore, I’ve decided to focus my first collection on a more casual vibe and call it “Casual Woman.” Since my lifestyle, at the moment, involves activity that requires ultimate comfort, I need pieces that will be accommodating. I’ve planned out the collection to include 6 pieces. I’m not quite sure how long it will take for me to finish all the pieces since I’m not sewing daily. However, I really want to complete this collection, so I plan to invest every free moment to sewing. With Spring time approaching, I really need to get my Collection done beforehand because the fabrics I’ve pulled are for cooler weather, as that is my need at the time.
My daily activities involve caring for CEMO, doctor’s appointments, rehab center visits (temporarily), grocery store and other errands. So my wardrobe needs aren’t fancy but I’m still trying to be cute. Hahaha! Shoot, I don’t care what’s going on, you can’t take away a girl’s inner desire to be who she is.
As of right now, my plans for the Collection include: 1 pair of sweat pants, 1 turtleneck top, 1 bodysuit, 1 pencil skirt, 1 casual dress, and 1 cardigan or vest (or perhaps both). Today, I’m kicking it off with the sweat pants and turtleneck top. For the top, I used my favorite Burda Style 6990, which I’ve already sewn twice HERE and HERE, and I rate it Easy for beginners. For the pants, I used Burda Style 6471, and they were an easy sew for me. I would rate the pattern Average/Intermediate, although I believe an advanced beginner would be successful in completing the pants. OMGosh! Both pieces are so perfect, and exactly what I need right now. I feel both comfortable and cute in this outfit. The best part is that I can wear it sitting around the house or running errands around town. The other pieces I’ve planned for the Collection are also multi-functional in that way.
While I’ve made plans for my pieces, they’re not set in stone. I could very well decide to change a piece or several. I’ve managed to stay out of fabric stores due to my lack of time, so that really helps me in staying on task.
If you’re new to sewing, this might be a great way to start for you. Try sewing your own Collection, where all the pieces you make will be interchangeable with one another. Not only will you be happy about your new craft, but you’ll benefit from building a functional wardrobe.
Wish me luck you guys. I’m so excited I can barely stand it. Oh please let me have time to sew.
Create the Look!
- Top Pattern: Burda 6990 (View D)
- Pants Pattern: Burda 6471 (View A)
- Top Fabric: Ribbed Knit
- Pants Fabric: Reversible Knit
Thanks for stopping by!
Remember: When you live in your DESIGN, it is from there that God SHINES!
Anita
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Thank you so much babe!!! have a nice day
You’re welcome!
Hi Anita, I love this. I had planned for this year to sew wardrobe capsules. I have limited time to sew, and I have to be focused and intentional. There’s no time to sew items that won’t work for my lifestyle. I’ll go check out Brittany’s and Emily’s collection. I’m sure I will be inspired from all you ladies. Praying for you and CEMO. Be Blessed!
Yes, Sandra, I hear you. You’ll love Brittany and Emily. Thanks so much for your prayers.
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I think this casual look is really cute and changes things up from the more dressy styles. Good call. This outfit looks good on you and stylish even though it’s casual. Continued prayers for Cemo and your family for a complete healing. Thank you for sharing your projects, ideas and talent.
Thanks Tarah!
Hi Anita, even thou this outfit is casual I think you look fancy in it! Your confidence and smile make it fancy ☺️
Such a great idea to have your own collection! Good luck to you! Thank you for sharing your work and your positivity!
I am so happy that I found your blog and your tutorials! You are a gift from God! Thank you!!! ❤️
Thank you Dasha!
Dear Anita,
Great choices for patterns and fabrics. What and how did you use the silver pieces on the pocket? I think that it gives a finished look to the pants.
My prayers are with you during this time.
Hi Helen! The snaps and grommets were applied using the tools that come in the kit when you purchase these items. I purchased mine from JoAnn Fabrics. The instructions on how to use the apply them are on the back of the package.
I”m sorry that this one didn”t work out for you, I haven”t read it in full yet. There was definitely a lot of abuse in the section I did read though Thanks for sharing, ~ Brittany @ Brittany”s Book Rambles
We are so blessed to have you as our example of faith,style and confidence. Thinking of you and your family.
Thanks Barbara!
Hi Anita, by the way you always look great!!! and great job on this new outfit.
Thank you very much for the information on Brittany Jones and Emily Hallman. I checked them out and I am already a fan thank you. Prayer to you and your family.
Thanks so much Ogenga!
You are so stinkin’ cute in that outfit! Thanks for the inspiration. I too am a big fan of Brittany J. Jones. I am not familiar with Emily Hallman, so I shall head on over to check out her makes. As always, I am still praying for strength and blessings for you as you weather this difficult season.
Thank you Pam!
First, I have been praying for your family. I’m new to sew and I have been following you. Are you going to doing a Sew Along? Also, I’m so pride of you.
Thanks you Chelvy! I plan to do a tutorial or two, just not sure of which pieces from the collection yet. Stay tuned!
Dear Ms. Anita, As always your posts are a delight. You are such an inspiration and I trust God to keep you and Mr. CEMO in His care. Thank you for taking the time to share your sewing world with us.
Thank you Vanessa!
Hi Anita,
I love this look. you are so stylish and classy. Would you consider making a video for the pants. I am somewhat an advanced /beginner and would love to make my own clothing. I recently purchased a serger so I have been playing with it. Prayers for your husband
Thank you Carmen! I am thinking about a tutorial for the pants, but not sure yet.
Hi Anita. I love the look and that’s a great idea. Thanks so much for sharing. You all are in my prayers continually.
Thanks Peggy!
I like your idea of doing a Collection. I too used to do that but got so into quilts, totes, wall hanging and just being creative that I truly forgot about it. Thank you for the reminder.
Right now I am teaching a young girl to sew. She is only 12 but so very talented. I can show her one time how to do something and she just goes with it.
Praying for time for you to sew and continued praying for CEMO. <3
Thanks for the prayers, Geri! So awesome that your are teaching a young girl the craft. I’m sure she’s very appreciative.
Aww, I miss you Anita. Love the name “casual woman” it so fits you. I like this idea of sewing collection, I should have this try considering non of my clothes go well together. I hope you and the family are doing much better by His grace and mercy. And I’m so looking forward to your makes. Keep being an inspiration xoxo
Thanks Mirline! Yes, give it a try.Thanks for thinking of my family.
Hi Anita,glad to see you back and looking fabulous I must say.Loving your new designs,also following you with Baby Lock machines.Still praying for you,your husband and family.Keep the faith.God is in control. Love you. Be bless. Dottie
Thanks Dottie! Glad to be back.
WOW! You have scored a home run with this outfit! You and Cemo are in my thoughts and prayers daily. I know how important it is for you to do something for yourself everyday, even if it is only 10-15 minutes. I’m looking forward to seeing your other components. Loved your recent videos, too!
“Blessed is the nation whose God is the LORD; and the people whom he hath chosen for his own inheritance.” Psalm 33:12
Thank you so much Cynthia! Making time to sew has been good for me.
I love it. Your hands are blessed by God. Follow your dreams !!!!!
Thank you, Sharon!
Anita I love Brittany and Elizabeth collections too. I am inspired to give as a beginner. I love your casual look and can’t wait to see what else you have in store to create. Blessings.
Thanks Carmen!
You always manage to make it look great!!! I love the look and am a beginner+ sewer. I will try the top. Still a little scared to sew pants. Despite your present circumstances you are finding some me time and doing something you love. How inspirational!! I follow Brittany (who I adore) and now will check out Emily. Thank you.
Thanks Michelle! Yeah, try the top first. I’m glad I can get some sewing in because it REALLY makes me happy.
Hey Ms. Anita! Love your outfit really nice, I so glad to see you again I have been watching your new series as well, I really need to a collection too, will you be doing a tutorial on both would love to see it. God Bless and much Love.
Hey Angela! I’m glad to be back. I plan to do tutorials on a couple of pieces from the Collection, I’m just not sure which pieces yet.
Classy lady. You look so darn cute in anything you wear! I’m glad you will try to find time for yourself. We all need that that. You’re an inspiration to us all. Prayers for you and your family.
Thank you, Brenda!
I love it Ms. Anita! Perfect outfit for a casual woman collection! I so happy you found time to sew! You are such an inspiration to me! Can’t wait to see the rest of this collection!! Love, Brittany❤️
Thanks so much, Brittany!
Hi my friend…..you definitely nailed this…..we need to have a collection….I just sew whatever and it does not make sense…..Thank you, thank you. I am so happy that you are etching out time for you, while still taking care of hubby…..both are important. Wishing you well as always and keeping you all in my prayers ~ Lynette
Thanks Lynette! Yes, I’m pretty excited to have some direction in my sewing right now.
Oooh, I also need casual clothes. I love this!
Thanks Cat!
You look great! God bless you and your family.
Thanks Gwendolyn!
Glad your back in the game! Love the casual en chic look!
Thanks Glenda!
You look great! Welcome back to sewibg your own wardrobe. You are lovely and I cannot to see where you’re going with this collection. Yahweh bless you in all your efforts supporting CEMO and still living in midst of circumstances.
Thank you so much Vicki! Yes, living in the midst of it all.
I, so, admired your strength and attitude! God’s continued blessings upon you, CEMO, and your sons! These outfits are beautiful and I enjoy your creations and your posts. Keep doing you!!
Thank you so much Linda!
You are such an inspiration Anita!! And definitely stubborn…ha ha!! I would be at the store in a second because I’m not that patient!!
XOXO
Jodie
http://www.jtouchofstyle.com
Hahaha! You’re so funny, Jodie! I’ve been tempted a couple of times, but not enough to make that move. I’m determined girl!
Anita you are absolutely dynamic! Such poiseand finesse! I would follow you and your work anytime. Style and class is abound! Great job sweetie. Proud to have met you and know you
Oh, thank you so much Kathryn!
Hi Anita,
I noticed the link for the pant fabric suggested dry clean. Do you think that is necessary for a knit? Love the look.
Hi Lin! I threw that fabric right in the machine and it turned out just fine.
Beautiful Anita! So great to see your makes again, I love the casual and chic woman look! Lovee it! ? Xo Rosy
Thanks Rosy!
I love this. I need to create a collection for myself as well. A
Yes, do it, Shawn!I think it’s gonna be fun.