Another Upcycle Sewing Project

I've been enjoying doing some "upcycle" sewing projects lately. Repurposing textiles that have been donated to thrift stores keeps them from the landfills and that in turn protects our planet from the abuse of the excess textile manufacturing that goes into today's "fast fashion", mass produced clothing not designed to last more than one season. 

I found a lovely, brand new, blue/black, high quality, polished 100% cotton sheet at a local thrift store. I sewed it up into a Les Etoiles tunic (pattern by BMannbyBridget) and a pair of pull on pants (pattern Jalie 3243). I quite like the pair worn together. They look kind of elegant in an easy fitting, comfortable sort of way.

I had originally intended to wear it with this short handwoven tabard  I made long ago, but the colourful tabard was not really made to fit over a tunic that is loose and flowing. It pulls the tunic in and makes it bunch up. I do love the splash of colour it gives the otherwise monotone outfit though.

Les Etoiles

This is the "Les Etoiles" pattern by BMannByBridget sewn up in a medium weight knit fabric. I'm very happy with the way it turned out. It's super comfortable and the drape of the fabric is perfect.

I lowered the pockets by 3.25 inches from the pattern's location but they are a bit low now. Next time I'll split the difference. I find the perfect location for a pocket is just over my hip bones.

The reverse side of my fabric is not attractive so I had to hand stitch the back of the collar down, from shoulder to shoulder to be sure it doesn't show while worn. It kind of messes up the fall of the collar. Next time, if the fabric is single faced, I'll make the collar doubled so there is no wrong side to it.

The outfit actually looks better with plain black leggings but I couldn't be bothered to go change.