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resolutions

or re-SEW-lutions, hahahahahahahahahahaha. <------- funny <------- not funny

AKA things I want to do in 2016, because if I call them "resolutions" they won't get done:

 1. Start a capsule wardrobe.

With Alabama Chanin pieces, because a) I like the way they fit and b) I like the fabric a lot. Ideally, I'd like to get a head start on:
  • a fitted dress in reverse applique (already started)
  • a lightweight beaded mid-length skirt, to layer under the dress or wear alone
  • a blazer (not sure how to make this happen because AC doesn't really have a blazer pattern in any of its books, but maybe I can frankenpattern something from its existing cardigan pattern + a Vogue)
I'm also eyeing the color-blocked Five Easy Pieces set in the latest issue of Vogue Patterns (not online yet). 

2. Start learning how to make pants.

Not "make a wearable pair of," just "start." Because I hear it's a pain in the ass. I have Kenneth King's Jean-ius Craftsy course, so I might start with that, or Built by Wendy's Sew U pants pattern.

The problem with pants has always been that I have, uh, special needs: I'm 5'0", long-torso'ed, and have a butt (this is what my tailor actually says every time she hems something for me: "You have butt.") I bought a few RTW pants from various mall stores last year and they're already falling to pieces and it's pissing me off. I want real pants that fit me and last longer.

I even HAVE THE FABRIC, dammit. I just need to get going.

3. Try a Ralph Rucci Vogue pattern.

Terrifying. They're all rated Advanced! Oh shit!

I remembered this goal when I recently spent half an hour gawking at a Chado Ralph Rucci dress on exhibit at the RISD Museum in Providence:

That's black silk stitched in a lattice pattern over black tulle, with feathers stitched on top throughout, because why not.

And was reminded that I really, really like all the Rucci patterns, and I have a bunch, so WHAT IS THE PROBLEM.

So I'm going to give it a shot, even if I just trace one out and make a muslin. That's the plan, anyway.



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