April 26, 2014

50s Peplum

I have a little thing for 50s peplum tops.... well maybe it's more than just a little thing. I've been day dreaming about having one... or more. As it turns out, I'm not the only one who is having thoughts of bygone fashions. I've notice that modern designers like Giambattista Valli are too.. how fun!

Here's my reveal:


Now the backstory:
Would you believe that this top started life as a curtain panel. It lived in my sewing room for several years, stuffed in a drawer. I have no idea where it came from and had no real use for it as I had only one. The poor darling was starved for sun and fresh air, I am sure.

I have noticed lately that retro styles are on the comeback and there have been several times that I've seen a top or dress and the first thought that crossed my mind was, "Is that drapery fabric?"..... oh how fun. After all, if the major designers are doing it, why can't I?

But what about a pattern.... well I didn't have one..... but I could Frankenstein one together.... and that's what I did. Of course I made a muslin. I started with Simplicity 1755 for the bodice:





For the peplum part I simply cut two widths of the panel. I like the peek-a-boo effect of hi-low peplums so I cut the front higher.

The drapery fabric is thick enough that it has great body all by itself but to help it along I used an old technique that's new to me. I read on another blog.. wish I knew which one... to cut the bottom seam allowance of the bodice longer than the seam allowance on the skirt. Then use the extra from the top to wrap around and encase the seam. This also gives the skirt a bit of lift.

I'm really please with the results..... but where in the world am I going to wear this? I suppose that I could play Mrs. 50s Housewife and do some vacuuming.. Lol

Happy sewing to you.

20 comments:

  1. This is so cute.. Love your new use for the curtain.. Happy sewing.

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  2. What a nice addition for the summer wardrobe. The fabric is just fantastic! It makes me want to sew something floral too!

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  3. This is so lovely, Jessica. Your top turned out nicely, love the floral fabric and the peplum :) 50's is one of my favorite style too.

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  4. Too cute. Wear it to the mall, to visit family, out to the movies. Wear it for a walk . . . girl just do you.

    Proud of you.

    Cheers,

    Lyric

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  5. Your sewing is awesome! beautiful peplum top. Have a great day, Jessica! :)

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    1. Thanks Judy. I hope your days have been fruitful. :)

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  6. How fun! I am really loving the vintage styles right now!

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    1. Thanks Lindsay. I'm loving this style too. :)

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  7. your new top is beautiful! wear it anyplace you want, you look fantastic in it!

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  8. No one will ever know your beautiful top was once a curtain panel. An awesome upcycle!!!

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  9. This top is lovely! I am not a big fan of peplum, but I think this one is beautiful! You should wear this to everywhere!

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  10. visiting from sew many ways. I love upcycling. Well done for yours, you would never guess the origin

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Thanks so much for your comments.