SISTERMAG PATTERNS | COSY IN VANILLA
Building a new wardrobe from scratch is probably the most exciting thing I’ve done since I learned to sew. If you haven’t heard, I am currently sewing new clothes for myself after losing a lot of weight due to adopting a Whole Foods Plant Based (WFPB) lifestyle. All my old clothes are too big and I have no interest is altering them to fit my current body. So, when Antonia, from SisterMAG Patterns reached out and asked if I was interested in sewing one of the pieces from their Cosy in Vanilla Collection, I was intrigued. Side Note: In the United States, we say “Cozy.” In Europe the equivalent is “Cosy.” Therefore, I will be using the European spelling to represent the company which is in Berlin/Germany. After seeing the collection, my answer was an enthusiastic YES! (This blog post is sponsored by SisterMAG Patterns. I received free patterns and financial compensation in exchange for promoting the patterns. All opinions in this post are my own.)
Before I get into this post, allow me to share why I said yes. First, I got really excited when I saw the model. Unfortunately, I don’t see many models of a more mature age on the cover of sewing patterns. Seeing this beautiful, stylish model wearing garments that fit my personal style was very refreshing and played a part in me accepting the invitation to collaborate with SisterMAG Patterns. When I see models and sewists of a more mature age, like myself, rocking stylish me-made garments, I can’t help but smile. We are out here, and we’re representing.
Second, the Cosy in Vanilla Collection was perfectly aligned with what I already had planned for my next project. I had already sourced my fabrics to sew what I was calling the Cream Collection. When I decided to rebuild my wardrobe, I knew I wanted lots of pieces that I can mix and match with each other. Therefore, sewing a few mini collections seemed like a fun way to add great versatility to my new wardrobe. When Antonia asked if I would sew a pattern from the collection, it was difficult to pick just one. So, I asked if I could sew five of the seven pieces, and she said yes. She sent the patterns and since I already had the fabric I was ready to go. Now, let’s get into this collection.
Patterns Information
I chose five patterns that I knew would be great for mixing with other pieces already in my wardrobe, and those to come in the future. All the patterns are available in digital PDF form only. They are a European company and the instructions are available in English, German, and French languages. You MUST have sewing experience to work with these patterns. While they do have ratings from EASY to ADVANCED, the instructions are written for experienced sewists. They also include video tutorials for some of the techniques used in constructing the garments. If you are from the United States, please be aware that some sewing terms in the instructions are different than what you are accustomed to hearing. The website is very organized with lots of information about the patterns to help you make an informed decision about your purchase.
21-1 WOOL DRESS WITH SHOULDER PLEATS
The 21-1 WOOL DRESS WITH SHOULDER PLEATS is a semi-fitted dress with high neckline, drop-shoulder short sleeves, soft shoulder pleats on one side and invisible zipper on opposite shoulder. The hem falls just above the knees. It is available in sizes 34 – 50. Check the sizing chart for measurements. The pattern is rated as EASY, but I don’t recommend it for new beginners. You must have sewing knowledge to follow the instructions and know where to implement steps that are not mentioned. I recommend it for the ADVANCED BEGINNER who has a decent amount of practice under your belt.
When I saw this one, I knew exactly which fabric I would use. The material suggestions are wool knitwear, fleece, and felted fabrics. I used a beautiful BIRCH FLUFFY KNIT that I purchased from my local JoAnn Fabrics. It’s super soft and I thought it would look rich and delicious. The only notion required for this design is an invisible zipper. I lengthened the hem to just below the knee to accommodate my personal style. I cut a Size 34 and did not make any alterations to the dress, but I did take it in a bit on the side seams, and I extended the length of the hem to fall below the knees. My fabric is more stretchy than the recommended options. Here are closeup images of the dress.
Since I used a softer, more stretchy knit, my pleats are not as pronounced as what you see on the mode’s dress. Stick with more structured knit fabrics if you want your pleats to stand out more.
The armhole opening on my dress is much too low and I will be raising it for more coverage. It’s an easy fix.
69-5 LINED HIP SKIRT WITH HEM FLOUNCE
The 69-5 LINED HIP SKIRT WITH HEM FLOUNCE pattern is a fully lined, fitted skirt with attached waistband and belt loops, side invisible zipper and button closure. It’s designed to sit on the hip and has a small flounce at the bottom hem, adding a touch of sassy. The skirt is available in Sizes 34 – 50. Check the sizing chart for measurements. The pattern is rated as MEDIUM which is (AVERAGE/INTERMEDIATE). I agree with the rating, but keep in mind that you must know where to implement sewing steps where they are not mentioned in the instructions.
This skirt is so stylish and the fit is excellent. Once again, I knew exactly which fabric I would use to recreate the look. The material suggestion is outerwear fabric with weight, one that does not unravel as the flounce is left raw (no hem). I used this beautiful FAUX CASHMERE KNIT that I purchased from my local JoAnn Fabrics. It’s super cozy and feels amazing against the body. I used a lightweight knit lining and tacked it to the bottom seam with thread chains on both side seams. The notions required for this design are an invisible zipper and button closure. I omitted the button from my skirt and extended the zipper to the top edge of the waistband. I cut a Size 34 and did not make any alterations to the skirt. It’s always a bonus when I can sew a pattern without alterations. I found these patterns to be spot on with the finished measurements. Here are closeup images of the skirt.
69-4 SWEATER WITH INSERTED COLLAR
The 69-4 SWEATER WITH INSERTED COLLAR pattern was a standout for me when I first laid eyes on the collection. First of all, it’s the way Evie has it styled. Oh my goodness! She looks so amazing and confident. So, when I saw this sweater with the skirt, there was no way I could sew one without the other. Thank you, Antonia, for letting me choose more than one pattern. This is an oversized sweater with drop shoulders, long sleeves, inserted open collar and two side slits. The sweater is available in Sizes 34 – 50. Check the sizing chart for measurements. The pattern is rated as MEDIUM which is (AVERAGE/INTERMEDIATE).
The fabric recommendations are Knit Fleece fabrics such as Mouflon and Merino. Choose fabrics that do not unravel. Although it is best to use more stable fabrics like the suggestions, I opted for the same fabric I used to make the skirt – the FAUX CASHMERE KNIT. Once again, I already had these fabrics lined up so I decided to make them work with this collection. My collar doesn’t stand up like what you see on the model, but I’m fine with wearing it flat. There are no notions required for this design. I cut a Size 34 and did not make any alterations to the sweater. Here are closeup images of the sweater.
68-4 JOGGER PANTS WITH ZIPPER AND TAILORED WAISTBAND
I had to have the 68-4 JOGGER PANTS WITH ZIPPER AND TAILORED WAISTBAND pattern because I love all the details in the design. They have a tailored waistband with belt loops and button front closure. There’s a front fly zipper insertion; one double welt pocket in the back; two vertical double welt pockets in the front; and zipper closures at pants hem. The pants are available in Sizes 34 – 50. Check the sizing chart for measurements. The pattern is rated as MEDIUM which is (AVERAGE/INTERMEDIATE). I recommend this pattern for VERY CONFIDENT INTERMEDIATE to ADVANCED sewing skill levels. There are video tutorials included for the front zipper, ankle zippers, welt pockets, and waistband with belt loops. Following the videos helps to demonstrate the written instructions.
Tweed fabrics are mentioned in the pattern description on the website and that’s exactly what I used because I already had some on hand from a purchase I made at Michael Levine Fabrics in Downtown Los Angeles, before they went out of business years ago. Any medium, bottom weight woven fabric will work for these pants but I think the tweed really gives them a designer flair. They suggest rib knit for the pants cuffs but I continued with the tweed for a more dressy look. The notions required for this design are one 7″ zipper, two 6″ zippers and 2 buttons. I omitted the button on the back welt pocket because I forgot to sew the buttonhole. I cut a Size 34 and did not make any alterations to the pants. The fit on these pants are amazing. I can’t believe they fit so well with no adjustments to the pattern. Here are closeup images of the pants.
As you can see, my zipper fly is extremely long. It’s not supposed to be that way and this was an error on my part. If you look at the model, you will notice her fly is a normal length. Even with this mistake the pants are still comfortable to wear.
I also had a placement mishap on one of the back belt loops. But it’s okay because no one will know. Shhh…
31-1 JACKET WITH BACK AND SLEEVE TABS AND ROUND SHOULDER LINE
And to close it out, the 31-1 JACKET WITH BACK AND SLEEVE TABS AND ROUND SHOULDER LINE is a plush, fully lined jacket that adds a classy flair to the entire collection. Now do you understand why I couldn’t choose just one pattern from the collection? Every piece is simply exquisite and will help to elevate my new wardrobe. The jacket features front sleeve tabs and a back tab; a shawl collar, angled front pockets with flaps, shoulder darts, and bound buttonholes. The jacket is available in Sizes 34 – 50. Check the sizing chart for measurements. The pattern is rated as MEDIUM which is (AVERAGE/INTERMEDIATE). I recommend this pattern for VERY CONFIDENT INTERMEDIATE to ADVANCED sewing skill levels. There are video tutorials included for the flap pockets and bound buttonholes. Following the videos helps to demonstrate the written instructions.
The fabric suggestions are Wool Boucle or any woven fabrics with texture that are suitable for coats and jackets. I went in the opposite direction because I wanted to continue with my cashmere vibe. If you’re not familiar with fabrics, I suggest sticking with the pattern recommendations. I take chances quite a bit and oftentimes it works out, but sometimes it doesn’t. Although I used a knit fabric for the jacket, I can still dress it up and pop the collar for extra flair. The only notions required for this design are 5 buttons. I used 1 1/8″ COVERED BUTTONS using the fashion fabric to match the buttons for my coat. I wanted everything the same color and it looks great. I cut a Size 34 and did not make any alterations to the jacket. Here are closeup images of the jacket, inside/out.
Styling Options
I’m super excited to add this collection to my closet. With these five pieces, I can create several different looks. So, let’s take a look at some styling options, starting with the dress. I’ve styled it with a matching BELT that I made with the same fabric, a pair of orange pumps for a pop of color; rhinestone jewelry, a Tea Time rhinestone pin, and a beaded purse. Whew! I’m feeling it! Where’s the tea party because I’m ready?
Since the dress has short sleeves, I’ve layered it with the jacket for cooler days or evenings. Oh my goodness! When you walk into the room with this ensemble it’s sure to make a bold statement.
I’m trying to stay humble here. But I can’t help myself. This outfit is amazing! Oh my GOODNESS! Whew! I just want to go somewhere right now to show it off. I can’t wait to wear this beautiful skirt and sweater together. I’ve styled it with black high heel sandals; a black handbag; a matching BELT that I made from the same fabric; and gold jewelry to go along with the hints of gold in the shoes and handbag. You could also wrap the belt around the sweater for a different look. I think that’s how I will wear it because I’m not that great with the half-tuck style. Hahaha! I can also wear the top free-hanging.
Here we go again with the jacket! Seriously, it’s elevating the pieces in this collection. I love the way the jacket looks with this skirt. I’ve added a mock turtleneck top, cream pumps, and beaded clutch to give it a delicious monochromatic finish. Can you imagine the skirt and jacket with a red top, or any pop of color? Oh gosh! I feel very happy right now just thinking about all the pops of color I’ll be adding to this look. Tie a colorful scarf around your neck to dress it up even more.
Let’s get into these tweed jogger pants! Somebody come calm me down. I’m about to wear these pants like they’re the only pair I have. Hahahaha! This is what I call adding a drizzle of caramel to the vanilla. So Yummy! Do you see the fit? I’m so in love with my new pants and I have many different ways to style them, both dressy and casual. Here I’ve styled them with a mock turtleneck; a pair of terra cotta clogs; gold jewelry; and crossbody bag. I will probably make a matching belt but I need to find the right size buckle first. I can also wear them with a brown belt.
On cooler days and evenings, the jacket is a perfect addition to the pants. Styled with pumps or a pair of sneakers, these two pieces together are sure winners.
The final look is casually fabulous. Wearing the jogger pants with the sweater is a must. Here I’ve styled the look with my clogs, but you can also wear flats and it would look so good. I love the comfort.
What do you think?
Whew! I’m beyond satisfied with this collection. Which piece is your favorite? Are you even able to choose one? I love EVERY single garment. I would love to hear your feedback. Scroll to the very bottom of this page to leave a comment. Thank you SisterMAG Patterns for allowing me to highlight your Cosy in Vanilla Collection.
Thank you for stopping by today! 💕
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This Post Has 69 Comments
A fantastic collection. It is as if it was created for you. Your choice of fabrics really work. Your sewing skills are superb. Thank you for sharing and enjoy wearing all of it. (I will be looking for SisterMAG patterns)
Excellent job!
The collection is beautiful. Your colors are too. I like the dress but for me it would be a v-neck. (Hot Flashes)🤣🤣.
You sew so beautifully.
As my youngest grandson would say, “You slayed it!!” This is a great start to a new wardrobe, Anita. I’m excited about these pieces especially the jacket. I can only imagine the fun and compliments you’ll receive when you wear these.
Thank you De! Yes, it will be so much fun mixing these pieces with others in my wardrobe.
Hi Anita, I love your selection. I really like the fit of the pants and your choice for the cuffs. In all, all the pieces are stunning.
Thank you, Diane! I love the fit on the pants so much.
Thank you for your transparency and inspiration! So happy I somehow ran into you on fb! Blessings 2u!
Hi Anita, your collection is wonderful, such a wardrobe builder. Your fabric selection and color was spot on. The skirt, oh my I’ll have to try, the flounce at the hem, what a dream. I also like the jacket. So many ways to style these.
But, I want to share with you, I had the same sewing mistake you did, mine was a denim skirt with a front fly zipper, 7 inches installed right but ended up looking too long, just like your pants. What did I do wrong to get the fly to so long?(like you, it is still a favorite skirt to wear.
Thank you for the inspiration, love your sewing blog and videos.
Thank you so much, Becky! The flounce really elevated the skirt. I love it! And yes, so many styling options.
I’m glad to hear that you still wear your skirt and it’s a favorite. I seriously believe these pants will be amongst my favorites too.
You knocked it out of the park! Fabulous collection of patterns and selection of fabrics.
I love it, Awesome collection, you look gorgeous like always.
You look fabulous! I love the handbag and shoe ideas to go with the outfits!
Thank you so much, Betty! Styling the garments is just as fun for me as sewing.
Ms. Anita, Gurl, these outfits look like outfits in the high end sections of Macy’s or Nordstrom racks. Your choice of fabrics are beautiful and your sewing skill is TOP NOTCH!! Just beautiful!!! Just classy!!!
Sasha!!!!! Thank you so much! That’s a compliment that makes my heart smile. I certainly want my pieces to look high end and I’m continuously working on improving my skills. 🤗
Hi,
I love ALL of them. They’re so classy! Lady, you did your thing on your collection! 👏 👏
Thank you so much, Caroll! 💕🤗💕
You rock!!!!! Awesome THey are so beautiful and fit you perfect. I also love those shoes. Man do I want that sweater and coat in my collection, Awesome Awesome, Awesome.
Thank you Deborah! Aren’t the sweater and coat AMAZING??? 🤗
Wow, wow, wow, wow!!!! Just beautiful – the model looks good but you look AMAZING!!! These are gorgeous, versatile pieces that are sort of basic but not really because they’re all so fabulous!
Mary Jean, thank you so much. And I know exactly what you mean about them being basic but not really. They’re simple patterns with great design details. I love them so much. 💕
I tried to pick a favourite. I can’t. It’s impossible to choose. All of the garments are stunning and you look so lovely in all of them!!! Thank you!!
Thank you so much, Kim! Yep! I can’t pick a favorite either this time. 💕
All of these are beautiful on you! I’m loving the dress and am considering buying it. You are such an inspiration.
Oh Rae, you would look amazing in the dress. It’s such a beautiful design. I plan to make another one in the future.
Wow! Gorgeous! I love all of your looks- if I HAVE to pick
a favorite it’s the dress with the belt, jacket and fabulous orange shoes!! I’m a beginner sewer— I’ve signed up for your sewing class – about half way through. Love seeing these posts – you are so inspiring! Thank you!
Hi Carmel! Thank you so much! I’m so thrilled to know that you’re halfway through the sewing course. YES! Those pieces together are amazing. And the shoes just took it to another level. I love it! 💕
I OVE THE DESIGNS BUT i LIVE IN Florida ,our heat index is 96 degrees each day. Need summer material.
The beauty in sewing your own garments is that you get to choose whichever fabrics you want. It’s so liberating. 💕
my favourites – the jogger pants and top. very stylish. congratulations.
Thank you Frances! 💕
What beautiful outfits and they look fantastic on you! I think your versions should be on the pattern covers.
Stunning! I love the choices and the outcome looks great on you. Thanks for introducing us to another pattern maker, I will definitely be checking her stuff out!
You’re very welcome. They have a lot of great patterns.
I am truly in love with these outfits. You are truly amazing. This is a joy !
Thank you so much, Edna! These outfits are a joy to add to my closet. 🤗
Wow Anita, you look amazing in everything! This was a joy to read and so inspiring. There is so much leeway with every piece, what a wardrobe!
Thank you so much, Suzaanne! Yes, I’m gonna have a blast with these pieces.
Wow, Anita, just wow! You look wonderful in everything – a perfect blend of styles from casual to dressy – all so elegant and classy. I find it so very difficult to pick a favourite, but I have to say the dress accessorised with the burnt orange shoes is breathtaking. You will certainly get plenty of wear out of these pieces. You are an inspiration. Absolutely stunning!
Love from Jill xx
Thank you, Jill! Yes, I will wear all of these pieces a lot because they’ll mix well with almost everything. I’m so happy.
Anita you look exceptional in every outfit! I love your enthusiasm! You inspire us all to be OK with personalized ‘mistakes’. Your attention to detail and your creative changes are something that I hope to emulate. And finally, your support of Joann’s is wonderful as I really never looked close enough at their fashion fabrics. Love, love learning from you. By the way….I’d love a peek into your closet! Lol
Oh, thank you so much, Ronda! I love your feedback. Yes, we should all be okay with mistakes, because they really are our best teachers. I love JoAnn’s. Fortunately, my local store has lots of great fashion fabrics. I know that’s not the case with all the stores so I’m grateful. I’m happy to have you here, Ronda. 💕
Oh, how beauful your new garments are. You look very stylisht in them. I have never bought any patterns, because they never fit. Nowadays I draw them myself. I might order the pants pattern, since they fit you so great.
Thanks for sharing. Love from The Netherlands
Thank you, Kitty! You are talented to draft your own patterns. Have fun making the pants if you get the pattern.
OMGoodness!! These latest white clothes you sewed look soooo amazing! I can’t stop looking at how perfect they look on you.
P.S. I LOVE that you admit your mistakes! It makes the rest of us feel better about our mistakes.
Hi Wanda! Thank you so much. Oh, yes, we all make mistakes. I learn a lot from them too.
all of your choices are spot on! great job!
Thank you Michelle.
Oh, My Sparkly Cupcakes!!! That outfit combo is AMAZING. And the finishing details have me swooning. I love your attention to detail. While white would not be a color I would choose for myself (too many opportunities for coffee related mishaps!) , it looks lovely on you. Maybe I should sew a similar combo in coffee colored fabric….. thanks for the inspiration.
Thank you Ruth! I’m cracking up at the “coffee related mishaps.” And I love your “Sparkly Cupcakes” comment. 😂
You look Fabulous!!! You are such an inspiration to sew like you ….slow and steady gets a wardrobe that looks like Gucci ❤
Thank you for sharing Anita!
Oh my goodness! Thank you so much, Cynthia. Now THAT’S a huge compliment.
As usual, beautifully executed from creations to styling. YOU are a phenomenal woman.
👍🏼 Great job all around!!!
~ Cornelia
Cornelia!!! Thank you so much! 💕💕💕
Very nice… love it💕🤣🤣🤣
Thank you!💕
I love these styles, and your fabric choices for them fit and flatter you. I will be looking into these patterns, which I had not heard of before. Thanks for showcasing these. Your new wardrobe is what I dream of being able to create for myself- instead of just jeans and tees! I have been reluctant to sew with fabrics I am unfamiliar with, but my fashion sewing confidence is growing so I will be trying some new fabrics for sure. I look forward to your next posts.
Hi Sue! Thank you so much. Yes, it’s fun to venture out into new fabrics when you’re ready. You can order swatches from many fabric companies to get a feel for the fabric before committing to a full purchase.
Does this ensemble rock or what! Anita this is an amazing wardrobe and you have created it with perfect fabric for each item. My jaw is dropping aIi read your blog and enjoy all of those lovely pictures. Your accessories are also over the top for each outfit. You are an amazing sewista and an inspiration to me in so many ways. Thanks
Oh, thank you so much, Diane! I’m so happy to hear that you are inspired here. My heart smiles.💕
All I can say is, Wow! First of all you are looking just fabulous. Your face is glowing with life and excitement . The outfits are all wonderful. I love your ‘themes’ you are creating an amazing wardrobe. I can imagine the jacket with the red dress you made a few posts ago. I’m really enjoying your journey and would like to raid your wardrobe. Lol. Good luck on your journey, I’m along fir the ride.
OMGoodness Kim!!! Thank you so much. I feel amazing on this new life journey. These latest outfits have really added more joy to my closet. I’m so happy to have you on this journey with me. 🤗💕🤗
You have absolutely mastered this collection! Every piece is flawless and classy! I am especially in love with the pants because those would be perfect for my business casual office! Supremely well done, Ms. Anita!!
Thank you so much, Nikki! Oh yes, the pants are excellent for work, even with a blazer.🤗
The pieces are simply divine. I actually love them all. You model them beautifully. I feel I can attempt all of them, not sure they will look as good as yours but I’m willing to try. I feel like I have my very own private tutor. Thank you
I’m smiling, Daphne! Thank you so much. It blesses my heart to hear that you love the pieces enough to attempt sewing them. 💕🤗💕
Anita, I am loving these outfits on you! I recently lost a lot of weight too. You have been my motivation to sew a new wardrobe too. Thank you for continuing to inspire me and others. Stay blessed!
Trish!!!!! Yeeesss!!! I love that you’re on this journey to sewing a new wardrobe too. It’s so EXCITING and FUN! You stay blessed too, my sister. 💕