I used Simplicity 3879 which according to the Vintage Pattern Wiki is from 1952. There's actually a nicer non-decapitated image of the pattern cover on the Vintage Pattern Wiki.
I had already made the bolero and skirt in a lovely printed cotton and wear those separates quite frequently. I didn't end up doing the full skirt from this pattern but modified another pattern for more of a pencil skirt:
You'll see that the cuffs on the bolero are from the same fabric as my new halter top. I've also made another A-line skirt from this same purple cotton material from a 1940's hollywood pattern:
I love how the new halter looks with this skirt! I also really love the soft folds on the neck of the halter:
The main reason for not finishing the halter two years ago was that I was a bit befuddled by the instructions and the fit. This time around (after quite a bit more sewing under my belt) I was able to finish and fit it without too many hitches. I think what was confusing me before was the way they decribe the bias underfacing--something I had never done when I first tackled this pattern. I did end up taking it in about 3 inches in the sides at the bust area (despite this being my size) and ended up sewing the halter back together as opposed to having it close with a button. There is a side zip that makes it quite easy to get on. It's about hip length (it's tucked in with the skirt).
I also knew I wanted a splash of colour to break up the purple. I was recently in Ness with my sister (btw, I've just found out that they ship worldwide) and I picked up the adorable Ness shoes and wallet and I picked up the scarf with the intention of making a belt out of it.
I purchased the belt making kit from Sunni over at A Fashionable Stitch. I absolutely love the belt making kit as it makes it easy peasy. Before I was following the directions on the vintage patterns with ok results but I didn't really feel that the belts could stand up to constant wear. This belt backing is fantastic plus it includes a self-cover buckle. It also includes a prong and gromits but I just left those out and made it into a slide belt.
Actually I should rephrase....David actually made the belt for me! How amazing is that? I was sneaking in early hours sewing since my sister was in town and we were touring around Scotland during the day! David knew I really wanted to make the belt and offered to do it for me! awwww....thanks sweetiepie! He also very kindly took photos of how he did it. Here's what we started out with, the knit scarf, the belt kit, matching thread and a hand sewing needle:
And here's what making the self-cover buckle looks like:
And finally the actual buckle:
I love it, I love it, I love it!!! My very own matching belt!
I'm really glad I finished the halter top as we are having unbelievable beautiful weather at the moment! YAY!
