This week in honor of the Oscars Susi challenged us to create something inspired by a movie. I knew right away that I wanted to sew myself a top based on the beautiful Regency style dresses in the Emma movies.
Emma is not my favorite of the Austen movies, or books for that matter, but every time I see with the Masterpiece Classics or Hollywood version I’m stuck by the beauty of the costuming. Last time, I promised myself I would make a top at some point based on them & this was the perfect chance.
My original plan was to try revamping a man’s x-large t-shirt into an empire waisted top. So, I got to cutting up one of Matt’s old t-shirts. My plan was to trim the neckline & sleeves with bias tape & then make a sash out of some stash fabric. I think it would have worked except, the sleeve holes were just too long & without a serger I really couldn’t sew them like I wanted. I still think its a good idea that I’ll maybe address at another time especially since I know how to do the top now.
Like every good Austen heroine I always have a bit of needlework at hand to keep me busy.
In the end, I used a pattern, Simplicity 3750, I couldn’t have found on that was more spot on to the look I wanted. For the the fabric I ended up using a quilting cotton called Cottage Rose (seriously could the name sound more perfect for an Austen inspired top?). The sash is in a cream color with a small tone on tone pattern of leaves, it reminded me of a muslin in color. I was worried the fabric might be a little heavy for the pattern but, since the top is not lined at all I think I’m glad for the slightly heavier fabric. I ended up doing a few tweaks to the pattern to make the sash fit me in the right place. I also added some slits on either side at the bottom which I think makes it lie nicer when sitting down. Other than that, I left out some bias tape trim the pattern called for & did some nice double top stitching instead around the neckline & armholes. Now I have a sweet little summer top perfect for garden parties & picnics on Box Hill.
© 2005 – 2011 Kathy Lewinski & Susan Cornish
Oh my gosh, that top is adorable! And so close to your inspiration. I'm totally impressed. As always! 🙂
That is GREAT. It looks really good on you!
re the needle work: I always think of the line in Pride and prejudice where they are supposed to look busy, because the guys are coming up the driveway, and Jane says "the ribbons, THE RIBBONS…" One of her sister's throws her a wad of ribbons, and that is what she is "doing" to keep her hands busy. : ) I could stay busy if someone threw me a clump of vintage ribbons. !!
This turned out great and the material we got is perfect. Good job.
I love that top Kat. So feminine and classy. Very nice. You got the touch girl. It really looks great on you.
This is so fantastic, Kat!
I just watched Emma and thoroughly enjoyed all the lovely costumes!