Review: Vogue 1387 | Transitional Basics!

I've been needing to fill in the blanks in my closet with classic "go-to" pieces for a while now. And what better time than transitional wardrobe season with classic black and white.

I love white shirts and white blouses. The more interesting, the better... a not-so basic "basic" you could say. This Rebecca Taylor Vogue 1387 blouse is perfect. It's great for layering under a jacket now and perfect on its own for the warmer months.

I chose this beautiful Carolina Herrera single-ply silk crepe from Mood Fabrics because it reminded me of the original designer garment. And what a great choice this was!

This fabric was so easy to work with, that I forgot it was silk! I pre-washed it in hot water and machine dried it on full blast heat. And pressed it afterwards. There was minimal shrinkage. It cut perfectly and remained on the grain. With the exception of my normal one inch lengthening at the waist, this pattern was practically sewn straight out of the envelope.

I used French seams of course, and a narrow hem. The way the yoke is sewn, I had to do some hand stitching there. And the center front is tacked down. And an interesting design element is the underarm insets. This one is a winner. I would love to have this fabric in several more colors, just so I could make this blouse again.

For the pants, I used Simplicity 1887, that I had previously used. I picked this beautiful medium weight black wool crepe from Mood Fabrics that's perfect for wearing in the springtime. I wanted a pair of pleated, black, slouchy pants that had a semi-tailored, but casual feel. Like I can dress these up if I need to! The only additional changes I made this time was to add about an inch or so to the length so that they would "pool" at the ankle. And I tapered the leg down to a 13" opening. If you would've told me a few years ago that I would be going gaga over a pair of pleated, tapered leg pants -- I would've thought you to be touched in the head! LOL This fabric sewed like a dream. I could see this wool crepe being used to make all sorts of wardrobe staples not only for trousers, but for a sheath dress, a blazer and a pencil skirt.

Worn with my McCall's 5766 houndstooth coat.
So if you're choosing to make basic garments, choose beautiful fabrics and allow them to be the stars!