The Refashioners 2015 – Marie

Although refashioning is not a natural instinct or skill of mine, there was no way I could pass up Portia’s exciting invitation to take part in The Refashioners 2015! I had so much fun being super adventurous last time, and it felt good to push myself out of my comfort zone. This year, however, I took a slightly different approach which involved ticking off another #vintagepledge make off my list. There’s still plenty of time to sign up by the way, with some great prizes up for grabs!

First came the shirt, of course. I chose to pick my own this year and I was over the moon when I found this 100% linen Boden shirt for a mere £4.50 in a local charity shop. It was in tip top condition and although I’m not usually a huge fan of pink, this shade of blush really appealed to me.

I wanted the fabric to sing and I also wanted to end up with a classic wardrobe staple. So I turned to 1950s Simplicity 4656…

…and the rest as they say… is history…

First, I took apart my shirt, taking extra care when unpicking the breast pocket. I didn’t want any unsightly rips to scupper my plans.

 

Instead of following the pattern’s instructions for a side zip, I really wanted to utilise the shirt’s buttons for some cute detail. So I cut out my back pattern piece on the folded shirt front and my front pattern piece on the folded shirt back.

 

Instead of facings to finish my neckline and armholes, I used stripy bias binding for an extra pop of interest.

 

I finished the hemline in the same way and I must say, I really love the result! Pink and navy is such a chic combination and the cherry on top of course, were the matching buttons I stumbled upon on ebay.  

 

Compared to the creativity of my fellow refashioners, my simple blouse may seem a little humble…

But I’m so happy that I now have a go-to, chic blouse in my wardrobe. Thank you so much again Portia, for encouraging me (and many others) to think outside the box!

 

Nothing humble about that Marie! Such a feminine silhouette and classically vintage. Can’t you just picture that with one of Marie’s full circle skirts and those killer eyeliner flicks she does?! I’m totally with you on the striped bias and buttons too. In fact, making your own bias tape from stripe shirts will give you some great directional stripe play . And of course finding linen meterage in the charity shop for £4.50? Well….nuff said!

You can find Marie here and here. Marie has also very generously  delved into her own personal pattern stash to add to the prize package!!  Take a look at ALL the amazing prizes to be won as part of The Refashioners 2015 Community Challenge. So get involved for a chance to win!!! Grab a shirt and get refashioning! You have until Sunday 27th Sept to enter! Stay tuned for more inspiration throughout the WHOLE of August!