Making Memories 2

Here's another one from my pattern archive, this time from the 1980s (note the big shoulders!). I don't recall the exact year I made it, but I do remember very clearly wearing this outfit to work, it was a real favourite.

I made the slim skirt in a black crepe fabric, fully lined. It was mid-calf, like the one on the left. The long sleeved top was in a golden-yellow and black houndstooth check fabric, a soft brushed cotton or cotton blend, with black buttons. The top has a fitted band around the waist, with the upper blouson part and lower peplum both pleated into it, and slanted pockets in the peplum. With my black heels, it really looked the business.

Of course, being the 80s, I accessorised it with a chunky necklace, huge clip-on earrings, and big hair!

I Love Vintage

One of my other loves is vintage - fabrics, patterns, linens, brooches, books and anything a bit quirky!

I have a massive collection of old linens, lace and doilies, sewing patterns, knitting patterns and yarns stashed up in the loft, and I really, really, need to clear them out and either do something with them or let them go!

I do have some items listed in my Etsy Vintage shop (see link on the right), but there is so much more, it's scary!

My huge collection of vintage brooches is being steadily sold off - some are very hard to part with, as they're so gorgeous - but a girl can only wear so many sparkly brooches, so I'll keep a small collection and reluctantly part with the rest. Here are a few examples currently for sale:

Aren't they stunning? They really brighten up an outfit, especially during the duller months. Great on a jacket or coat, to fasten a shawl or scarf, or to add interest to a hat or bag. Perfect for weddings too, to add a bit of bling to a simple outfit.

The brooches won't clear much space, but it's a start. Tackling the mountain of linens etc is a much bigger challenge. I've used some smaller pieces on my lacy book covers, and made a few cushion covers, but I really need some bigger projects to use them on. I'm thinking patchwork quilts maybe....or long table runners for vintage-style weddings...or more cushions...