//THE WARDROBE PROJECT//

Hello everyone! A couple of months ago I was asked if I would like to be a pattern tester for Megan Nielsen's new pattern Rowan and of course I said YES! Megan's patterns are always so perfectly drafted and her designs are modern and easy to wear.

"Rowan is the ultimate wardrobe builder fitted tee and bodysuit. The pattern features figure hugging close fit, three neckline options, three sleeve lengths and tee or bodysuit versions."

I went with version 5, the V neck bodysuit with 3/4 sleeves. The first thing I loved about this pattern is that the instructions include which pages you need to print for each version, so you don't end up printing and sticking together all 36 pages just to make one version of the pattern.


I used a classic black jersey for my version, because I wanted this to be a basic mix&match piece in my wardrobe. I went with a size M, which was the perfect fit for me. I love how the pattern includes both Imperial & Metric charts, saving all the conversion troubles. What I specially love about this pattern is the fit around the bum area. It covers enough, without causing ugly lines and it is really flattering.

As always, the instructions were really clear and beautifully illustrated. I would totally recommend this pattern to everyone, despite their sewing level. Rowan is a true wardrobe staple and the customizing possibilities are endless.

*Disclaimer: I received this pattern from Megan Nielsen patterns for free to test, but all opinions are my own. I sent feedback on the draft to Megan, which were included in the final pattern. I was not paid to test this pattern, and was given a free copy of the final pattern as compensation.*

Hello??...is anybody here? If there is still someone out there, hello and happy new year(yes, I know that January is almost over!), but you know, work and life get in the way and things don't always go as planned. When the new year came around I thought a lot about resolutions and lists. I didn't want to make a list of resolutions, just for the sake of it, that I already knew I wouldn't stick to past the first month. I wanted to think a lot about what I wanted this new year to be about. So I dedicated this month to thinking what I'd like to achieve the coming 11 months. And since this is the space to share my creative and sewing thoughts, I'm here to share my #makenine2017 list with you.

I'm sure that a lot will change throughout the year, but these are some of the things I would like to make in 2017.


For me, 2017 is all about comfort and effortless casual chic. One of my goals for this year is to start sewing my own lingerie. The Boylston Bra by Orange Lingerie has been in my list forever and I think it is time to tackle it. A little while ago, I discovered Evie la Luve's shop and I fell in love with her lingerie designs, I bought the Esme panties over the Thanksgiving sales and I can't wait to make it! As well as undergarments, I'd love to up my loungewear game. I believe the Ultimate Pyjamas pattern by Sew Over It would be a perfect starting point.

I don't think I have to say a lot about the Toaster Sweater by Sew House Seven. I believe it is in everyone's to-sew list by now and of course it couldn't miss from mine. Another beautiful pattern that caught my eye is the Blaire shirt & dress by Style Arc. I've seen some beautiful versions of this and I can't wait to make my own. I would also like to tackle a more demanding pattern this year and the Kelly Anorak by Closet Case Patterns is the way to go I think. And of course we can't talk about comfort, without including a relaxed t-shirt pattern. The new Seamwork Jane pattern is the ultimate classic t-shirt that everyone has to have in their wardrobe. Coming spring I know I would love to have a light duster coat, like the Londres trench Coat & Jacket by Orageuse Patterns and last, but not least, I'd love to make a long shirtdress, like the Hermes by I Am Patterns.

So, what do you think? Do you have a #makenine list for 2017? I'd love to hear about it! 

 Aaaaaaand she's here!! I'm sure you all know by the title, what I'm talking about! You've seen hints and teasers of her for quite a long time and the time has finally come. Let me properly introduce you to the lovely Alix! She is the newest addition to the By Hand London squad.

A beautiful design, inspired by the dreamy glamour of the '70s, featuring some pretty interesting details(V-neck yoke, inset waistband, billowing raglan sleeves, tie back belt and a full skirt, pleated at centre front and back). And her best feature? No zipper!! No type of closure whatsoever, no fiddling with installing it just right, no nerve-wracking stage, no cursing! Just slide it on and peruse your way through the day or night!  


 I made Variation 2, the mini dress. As I'm not a standard size, I graded from a 8/12 bust to a 10/14 waist and hips and the fit was pretty spot on. Other than that, I didn't make any alterations to the pattern, which was pretty amazing! I mean, even the length didn't need any fiddling with! Oh By Hand London ladies, how you cease to amaze me every time!

The pattern came together flawlessly and it was a fairly easy sew, which demanded just a little focus to get the details right. The instructions were nicely illustrated and really clear and easy to follow.


I used a soft drapey viscose fabric and paired it with thigh-high boots for the ultimate 70s vibe! It's possibly one of the most comfortable dresses I own.

Happy October everyone! Autumn is officially here!

Currently I'm in the process of planning and sewing my perfect fall wardrobe. So, I'm here to show you my first fall make!

The pattern is from My Image magazine. My Image is a Dutch based sewing magazine created by a Jet and Martin. I'm always up for trying new sewing magazines and books, so I was really excited to see what this one had to offer! And I wasn't disappointed! The magazine comes with 16 sewing patterns for women in sizes 34-52(XS-3XL) and contains instructions in 5 different languages!!!The designs are modern and really well drafted, and the instructions are clear and easy to follow.

I choose to make the M1665 dress/top. I cut a size 38 for the bust, grading to a size 40 for the waist and hips, but I did modified the pattern a little.
I wanted to make a long top with open sides, since I have a RTW summer top like that which I love. Since I wanted a more flowy fit, I straightened the side seams (connect the underarm with the hem with a straight line). I used the dress length of the pattern for the back and I shortened the front by 16,5cm. Lastly, I only sewed the sides for 12cm under the armhole. The neckline is finished with a binding and I used a twin needle for the sleeves, but I left all hems and side seams raw, because..., well ain't nobody got time for that!


I used the loveliest, softest ribbed knit in a gorgeous evergreen color, which gave the perfect drape to this top!




I really love this top! It is cosy, comfy and has plenty of room for all the fall pastry eating I'm planning on doing! I don't know about you, but it ticks every singe thing in my list! And I really recommend checking out the magazine!


Jet and Martin were kind enough to give a 25% discount on all their products until the 1st of November! Just enter the code: wardrobe. They also have a lovely magazine full of children's sewing patterns, called B-Trendy, that is really worth checking out!

So, how about you? What is on your sewing table right now?

The Azaire giveaway winner is.....Sara! Congratulations!! Please contact me with your address at thewardrobeproject.email@gmail.com.

Hello everyone! I'm here to share a project that has been in the works for some time. A while back, the lovely ladies from Gather contacted me for a pattern testing. I was a fan of their work for a while and of course I was excited to work with one of their patterns! I mean look at these beautiful pattern illustrations!


I tested their new Azaire pattern, a chic and flattering top and dress. It features a fitted bust, curved yoke, boat neckline, peplum, back darts and an invisible zip. There are two sleeve variations; ¾ length sleeves with a petal cuff or short petal sleeves. I made the top option, but I shortened it by 10cm in order to suit my style better. I went with the short petal sleeve option and I couldn't be happier. 

Although the pattern calls for a woven fabric, I decided to be a rebel and I went with a stretch lace fabric for the front and sleeves and a see-through knit for the back panels. I cut a size 12 for the bust, grading to a size 14 for the waist and hips, because I wanted the top to have a more oversized fit. I didn't add a lining and I didn't need any zipper closure, due to the stretch of the fabric.



The pattern is addressed to intermediate sewers, but I believe that an advanced beginner with a little patience would be able to tackle it with no problems. It is a really well drafted pattern, with easy and very clear instructions. And what I love most is that it comes printed in a thick paper( torned rice paper drama, anyone?). 

Overall, I loved working with this pattern and I can't wait to make a long sleeved version!

And the good news are that the lovely girls from Gather were so kind to offer me an extra copy to giveaway to one of you! All you have to do is leave a comment telling me how do you plan to make this pattern. I will pick a winner next Monday(Sept.26).