Some of the best fashion decisions are born from the fabrics and patterns we love to wear. This sewing with velvet, plaid and leather post is about just that. How an inspiration of something you love can take you down a design path that is sew fabulous!
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The Pattern
I used Silhouette Pattern 195 as a base pattern, but this Burda 6763 Top would work equally well.
The Inspiration
The inspiration this month was a post in In Style Magazine showing a Public School top for $295. The plaid cut on the bias is so flattering and the leather trim dresses it up. I found a similar wool plaid and faux leather trim at my local fabric store.
The Leather Details
I wanted to have the top long to wear with leggings, so I made the bottom band about 3″, the back is a little longer than the front and I added 4″ slits on the sides for movement.
Tips For Using Bias Binding
TIP — when trimming an arm hole or neckline, be sure to make your bias binding 3/4″ to 1″ smaller than the opening!
You certainly don’t want those wrinkly bindings
Top Completed
This top went up so quick and is super comfy. Total cost $50!
Sewing The Velvet Skirt
The skirt is a DKNY creation for only $598. I love me some Donna Karan, she has such inspiring designs and velvet is everywhere this winter! While I love the length of this skirt, it’s a little too long for me. The braided detail is beautiful, perhaps if I was a little younger. I decided on a simple A-line burgundy velvet, pull on skirt and I knew just where to get my fabric. a velvet dress I made for my sisters wedding.
I disassembled the dress and used the bottom for the velvet skirt. The fabric is a soft, light weight velvet from New York Elegant Fabrics. The drawback is the dress has a seam up the front and back, but the skirt is full enough that it is fine. I would, however, eliminate the front and back seams if I had the option. I lined the skirt, which gives this velvet a beautiful drape.
This skirt was essentially free since it was a refashion.
Sewing On Velvet
When you sew velvet, leather, suede any type of fabric that needs to move smoothly through the machine, I always use a teflon foot, one of favorites is very inexpensive and is available through Amazon. Teflon foot link here!
Wrap Up
It’s easy to take inspiration from fashion magazines and make your own creations for a fraction of the cost. By using fabric from trusted sources like Minerva, you can creat amazing garments. For more inspriation on garment making, check out our makes and plans post and video.
Get out and start sewing with velvet, plaid and leather!
Happy Sewing!