Happy Wednesday everyone!
Okay, okay, okay! This ensemble doesn’t scream casual — I know! BUT,when you throw on a pair of sneakers, it’s all good, right? Well, I felt very comfortable when I wore this outfit to spend the day at the hospital with my CEMO. He’s currently in the rehabilitation unit receiving therapy to regain his strength. When I walked in and told him that I made my outfit, he smiled and said I looked nice. Hehehe! I also got a few compliments from the nurses and a lady at the post office. You know what the best part about this is? I FEEL GOOD! I’m sewing!
I’m trying to find a balance between being with him during the day and taking care of me and household. I spend my days there with him and go home after dinner. I’m starting to take breaks from the hospital some days for a few hours. The first time I took a break, it was simply for my sanity. Another day, I went home to sew. Then one day I met my son and his girlfriend at the theater to see a movie. I’m getting to the point where I’m more relaxed about leaving. I’m okay with that now. I’m okay admitting that I need to get away sometimes, without feeling like I’m neglecting him. I’ve found that taking a break makes me better for him. It’s part of taking care of myself.
I was able to complete Pieces 3 and 4 of the “CASUAL WOMAN” Collection. The bodysuit was made using Simplicity 8513 and I love the fit. I used an ITY knit that I picked up from Michael Levine Fabrics a long time ago. It’s been sitting in my stash, waiting for the perfect opportunity to shine.
I followed the Mimi G Style “High Waist Pencil Skirt” Tutorial to self draft the skirt. Okay, if you don’t have this tutorial already and you like wearing pencil skirts, I highly recommend grabbing this one. She walks you through the steps of drafting a skirt by using your own body measurements. No need to make alterations to pattern pieces with this one because you create a pattern that fits your body perfectly. My favorite part of this skirt is the side pockets. Oh My Goodness! When I first saw Mimi in this skirt, I fell in LOVE with the pockets. Not to mention how the lady rocked the world out of the skirt. I purchased the tutorial a couple of years ago and this is my first time using it. What in the world was I waiting on? I want this in more colors, but I’m going to restrain myself for now. I have to say that the fabric choice for this one helped to make it wonderful too. I used a textured double knit that I’ve had in my stash for so long that I don’t remember where I purchased it. Yeah, I need to label my stash fabrics. It’s a very thick fabric, so I wasn’t sure if the pockets would protrude too far out from the skirt, but after constructing a pocket and pinning it to the side, it worked out great.
These were both pretty easy to sew and are interchangeable with Pieces 1 & 2 (top and joggers) that I shared last week. If you missed that post, you may see it HERE. When I’m all done with the Collection, I’ll mix and match the pieces to give you an idea of how I plan to use them all together. Oh gosh, I’m so excited about this.
By the way, the Collection is growing already. I had a feeling this would happen. Kelly Horton posted a photo on Instagram @kellyhpsyd of the cutest pattern with a hooded tunic, New Look 6529. Now I TOLD you guys last week that I was doing a great job staying away from the fabric store due to a lack of time. Well, when I saw this pattern I ran right over to JoAnn’s and grabbed it, along with fabric. Sooo, I’m adding a hooded tunic and leggings to the collection. At least it’s a super easy pattern. I’m trying to stick with really simple patterns for this collection, which is helpful with my limited time to sew.
I’ve already started on Piece #5, although I’m tempted to jump right into making the tunic. It’s raining here and it would be nice to wear it now. Let’s see what I end up with next week. I’m not one to jump into new projects without completing what I’m working on first. It’s just that I know I can whip that tunic and leggings out in no time. Hahaha! I’ll try to behave myself, but no promises.
Create the Look!
- Bodysuit Pattern: Simplicity 8513 (View C)
- Skirt Tutorial: Mimi G Style “High Waist Pencil Skirt”
- Bodysuit Fabric: Options
- Skirt Fabric: Options, Options
I’ll see you all next week (if all goes as planned). Happy sewing to you all!
Thanks for stopping by!
Remember: When you live in your DESIGN, it is from there that God SHINES!
Anita
Pingback: DIY – “CASUAL WOMAN” Collection – Piece 8 – Anita by Design
Beautiful outfit. I love everything about it. Wow! never thought about a bodysuit. I remember wearing them when I was a child. That was a long times ago–Hehehe. Getting the pattern though.
Thank you Peggy! I have wanted a bodysuit for the longest time. I remember wearing them too, but we called them leotards. I’m so ready to make many more.
I really like this skirt & top. Really cute.
Thank you Rosalind!
Pingback: DIY – “CASUAL WOMAN” Collection – Pieces 5, 6 & 7 – Anita by Design
What a wonderful testament to debunk the myth that comfort looks slouchy! You look fabulous, poised, and confident. Simply a fabulous collection.
Thank you Saundy!
Thank you so much Christina!
Miss Anita,
I am so glad that you are back doing what you love. You and CEMO are still in my prayers. It’s hard being a caregiver, but the most important thing is taking care of yourself so you can take care of your loved one.
You continue to inspire me and now I can’t wait to get these customer orders completed so I can start creating some of these casual looks.
Thank you Christina! Yes, taking care of me has helped so much. Have fun creating your casual pieces.
Great Job Sis! I am so glad to see you back creating! I will be looking forward to seeing your creations as you know I am a huge fan of your work and I am still earning from you after 4 years of sewing! Hugs 🙂
Thanks Stephanie!
Lovely outfit!!! Praise God you husband is doing better and yes you have to take care of you…
Thanks Martha!
I love all of your pieces. I am a fan of comfort, I call mine the comfy girl outfits!
Yes, LeJanaro! I love that, “comfy girl outfits!”
I love everything you do!!!! It is all perfect! I admire your strength and how you have learned to take care of yourself while taking care of your husband. May God continue to strengthen you with His love and peace. God bless Cemo and your family! ?
Thanks so much Tori!
The Collection idea is a winner. I love the concept of pieces that can be mixed and matched with little effort. I also like that you can dress this outfit up with a pair of heels, or keep it casual with a pair of ballerina flats if you don’t want to be quite as casual wearing sneakers. In any case, you look great. Good jobs. Continued prayers for Cemo.
Yes, Tarah, it’s so multi-functional. Thanks so much!
Could not wait…..I ordered the skirt….what an influence you are on me…..lol. Not sure what color yet,but it’s out there
Hey NOW! You’re gonna absolutely love it. I can’t wait to make another one.
Oh Sissy you look great and again the idea of having your own collection makes so much sense…. I’m excited about it. That skirt is everything….. that’s what I need in my life right now. Love and hugs to you, CEMO and the boys
Thanks Lynette!
It’s beautiful Anita!
Thanks Faye!
You look great Anita. I love the outfit. Glad to see you are taking you some time to take care of you. I am still praying for you and your husband. Stay strong, and keep busy. Glad to see you are sewing again.
Thanks Sheila! I’m really enjoying my sew time.
I love the look and am inspired to create a casual women’s collection too. I’m so happy that you are getting time in for yourself. Continued prayers go up for you and your hubby.
Yaaay! Let’s go Sherry! This is so fun! Thank you for your prayers.
Beautiful as always! You are such a talented sewist.
Thank you Pam!
Love it! You inspired me with your previous post to start sewing my own collection so I’m working on that. I’m glad to hear that you are taking care of yourself. I’m sending my prayers to you and CEMO for healing.
Yes! Yes! Yes! That’s awesome, Denise! Have fun sewing your Collection. Thanks for your prayers.
This looks great! Glad to hear you are taking care of yourself also!
Thanks Sue!
Ms. Anita!!!!! You look absolutely lovely!!!!! I love both pieces, and I must say, isn’t the bodysuit everything?!! I’ve made four so far. it’s so simple to make. What a beautiful picture of you and hubby.
Oh Jennifer, yes! I LOVE this bodysuit! I’m definitely going to make more and get lots of wear from all of them. Thanks sister.
Hi Anita sorry to have missed last week email, but this week outfit is fabulous i always love your fabric choices. i am so happy for you and your husband recovery. God is Good. Being a care taker is hard but with God all things are possible.
Thanks Linda!
You look lovely, keep pressing and make sure you take some “Caretaker” time!
Thanks Nathine! Yes, I’m taking time.
Wow you look amazing in that outfit can’t wait to do mine.
Thanks Veleda! Have fun making yours.
Love the look!
Thanks Carmen!
The collection is cute. Keeping you and your family lifted in prayer.The Lord is a healer.
Thanks so much Kaija!
Hi Anita, this really looks great on you! ( but everything looks great on you ) and you do look well rested. I’m going to try a casual outfit this season. Thanks for sharing and God bless you and your family!
Thanks Gwendolyn!
Hi Ms. Anita,
Your outfit is gorgeous! The color and fit, are both on point. You are a beautiful lady and Mr. CEMO is looking good on the road to recovery. I continue to pray for his complete and total healing. As one of your followers, thank you for being an example of love demonstrated for yourself by resting and taking great care of ‘you’ while your husband rehabilitates. God bless and keep you and your family in His care.
Oh, Vanessa, thank you so much! Your prayers are much appreciated.
These turned out fabulous Anita!!
My step mom, Nancy (the 60+ model on my blog) has always loved body suits because they stay tucked in!!
XOXO
Jodie
http://www.jtouchofstyle.com
Yes, Jodie, YES! They stay tucked in. LOL! I love this bodysuit. Thanks so much!
I have that bodysuit pattern and I can’t wait now to make from it. I also love the skirt and will download it as well. Your collection is coming along real nice. Also still praying for your husband and yourself.
Thanks Angie! Have lots of fun making your pieces.
I love these!!! I have the bodysuit pattern and I really like how you styled it. I’m working on a sweatshirt pattern myself today and I’m excited to grow my casual wardrobe as well. Thanks for this post!
Lots of love to you and Cemo!
-Su
Hey Su! Thanks so much, sister. Oh gosh, I’m really tempted to jump on that tunic. Lots of love right back to you.
I’m so happy for you. When you smile it comes from so deep inside that it makes me smile.
I know you fully enjoy your happy moments. God truly smiles down on you.
He does Avis! Thank you so much!