White Linen Holly

I’m so excited to be able to share my newest make, my White Linen Holly!  My mom says it’s modern Jane Austen!  Isn’t that fabulous.  Especially since I do adore everything about the regency era.  Plus this is my 100th post!!!!

I can’t rave enough about By Hand London’s Holly Jumpsuit.  Just the packaging alone is lovely. I wish all patterns were designed and packaged this well!   The pattern is so  versatile too,  I can see myself making quite a few versions of both the jumpsuit and the pants themselves, as well as combining either of the bodices with a skirt.  Now that I’ve spent my time perfecting the fit I can’t wait to make another.  I do love a wide leg pant, and the shape on these is perfect with a fitted waist that gently flares out past the hips.

I’ve been planning out this make for a while and knew I wanted my first version to be simple and elegant in all white. You can see my earlier sketch here with my sewing plans.  I originally ordered this hemp and linen mix  from Organic Cottons Plus for another pair of pants as the description said it was a taupe color, but happily for me this was an almost pure white.  At first I thought I received the wrong fabric- but if I did I’m not complaining!  I had 3 yards which was just enough since the fabric is almost 59″wide.

I’m glad I  made a muslin as I used quite a few alterations.  The Holly Sewalong has some fabulous instructions on how to alter common fit issues.

Here are my alterations:

• Size 10US/14UK
• Lengthened bodice 1″front and back
• Lowered bust darts one inch
• Narrowed the shoulders with  1/2″  wedge on each side of upper back
• Shortened crotch a total of 2″ (which compensated for the lengthened bodice)
• From the hip I graded out an inch in width on the outer leg seam
• Took off 4″ on the leg hem

I love the fit especially in this fabric.  The material is just opaque enough to give some coverage but still feels light as air.  Perfect for spring here in Florida.  I love the curve of the neckline-so flattering.  And the shape of the set in sleeves and folded angled cuff is so pretty.

I’ve already ordered my fabric, a lovely Hemp Silk for a second version.  Plus a sampler of dyes from Botanical Colors that includes Saxon blue.  I’m planning on a more modern silhouette.  I’ll be altering the neckline to a V and using  a shorter culotte length pant as well  a front zip closure.  Can’t wait to get started!

Right now I’m working on finishing up my Carolyn PJ’s in a beautiful cotton lawn semi sheer thistle/floral print from Marcy Tilton. Happy Sewing!