Inspired by the First Lady

I am intrigued by Azzedine Alaia's dresses that Mrs Obama wears. They are lovely and they are always described as "knit". That intrigues me further. I wondered how this could be so, as I have never seen any novelty knits that look anything like these dresses she wears.


This double sided matelasse knit in black I found at emmaonesock. Stretch in both directions, and with some weight. I copied the top from BWOF 2-2009-118. Originally I made this pattern last year. It was a horror to read, and I had several wadders before eventually constructing it in my head and sewing it "my way". That can be equally as frustrating, because then I am left feeling, why can't I follow the directions like everyone else?????





For the bottom of the skirt I simply gathered it and then lined it with silk organza to give it some body.
Organza and knit= tight fit over the head, and because I did not want to insert a zipper into a knit, I had to make sure the fit was perfect over the head but still had shape when on. I liked how it turned out. It is fun, I need to adjust hem, and I have no clue how to wash-other than carefully!

The second item, just using the top version of the same pattern, and a puckered stretch knit, turned out cute and it is easy to wash and wear.





A close up of the fabric.




My 22 year old Elna serger almost had me in tears trying to sew these fabrics. Threading each time was an additional nightmare. I have decided to research Babylock sergers, take advantage of the free finance plan and am looking at the Enlighten or Imagine. I am done cursing at the machine. I need sanity while sewing! If you know anything about either of these please comment.

I will not be blogging until September. I am leaving the country here for a few weeks, and wish you all a wonderful end of the summer, and to my southern hemisphere friends, happy soon -to- be- spring!