The New Leisure Suit
Well if you lived through the ‘70s you know all about the leisure suit or pants suit as they were called for the ladies. The look has been updated for the modern wearer. I used two patterns from two different companies to make the look.
The fabric was either purchased at Joanns or Hobby Lobby. Whenever I purchased it I bought at least 4 yards. It is some polyester based fabric that is a little on the thicker side. It doesn’t wrinkle, washes well and appears to wear like iron. Just like a good poly fabric from the 1970s should.
In my continuing quest to really try out variations of a pattern I made another pair of Winnie Pants (pattern is from Made for Mermaids). I kinda tried a new waistband variation. Same pattern piece but this time I did made a drawstring from the fabric not just twill tape. I cut the drawstring width-wise much wider than called for in the instructions. I then folded it in half and met the sides in the middle. No turning of any tubes here folks. When I make the pants and look at them I think the grommets are too far spaced apart, but when I wear the pants the spacing is just right. Shows you what I know about pattern drafting. The pants went together quite well and I am getting better at the pocket work. Due to the fabric these pockets seem a little floppier than my other pair, but the band on the top hide that issue.
For the top I used Grainline Studio Toaster Sweater pattern. I have made about 4 of these and know it is an easy sew (for me) and fits very well. The mock neck is a little looser than my other versions. The fabric has stretch, but has more flow/drape than the other materials I have used on a Toaster before. It looks good on a person or at least this person. I have worn it twice (church and work) and received compliments on it at both places from people who don’t know I sew.
I did receive a sweet compliment from a coworker who does know I sew. She asked me if I had made my outfit. She then said “that is why your clothes always look so stylish and well fitting. You can fit them to your body.” It warmed this sewers heart to know someone notices my effort.
