
Hello there! Hope you had a fab weekend. So as you can see from the above pic (and if you've followed my most recent posts) I have caught the lingerie-making bug. Although making my own bras would require a feat of engineering that I'm not quite ready for, a bralette for sleeping in is a new and intriguing idea to me. This is the Florence bralette from Colette Pattern's Seamwork magazine. Have you tried any of the Seamwork patterns? I really love having a subscription and the surprise each month of two new patterns. So far, I have loved all the patterns and hope to make the Madrid tote and the Oslo sweater as soon as I have the right materials on hand.

Okay, back to my bralette. This is not something I can wear out of the house as it doesn't provide the necessary support. Sarai suggests that a bralette can work well, even for larger bust sizes, as something to lounge in and as sleepwear. Like I said, I'm intrigued by the concept. Plus, it's so pretty!

I also think it's a great way to test the bra-making waters without getting in too deep with expensive bra- making supplies. The cost of materials was next to nothing. I picked up the stretch lace at Fabric Outlet at 40% off a while back - so, less than two dollars. The burgundy bamboo rayon knit was a scrap that I'm grateful I didn't toss. The straps, including the rings and sliders, were harvested from an old bra that I never wore because it didn't fit correctly. I used foldover elastic from my stash for the side of the cups and the bottom band. It's not the correct type of elastic to use but worked out okay, I think. Even after cutting down the size of the band, it was still too big, which is why the elastic is gathered at the bottom. But I actually like it as a ruffle. Next time I will pay more attention to where the panels of lace are sewn together by the manufacturer. I've got a seamline down the middle of one cup as a result, which is unfortunate.
Overall, a very fun project - quick and pretty and there's something so lovely about making pretty undergarments for yourself that encourages a healthy body image.

Here's something pretty that I didn't make - one of two beautiful necklaces from my Valentine. Usually we just make each other cards, but this year I got sort of obsessed with looking at pretty pieces on Etsy and sort of sent him a bunch of links thus dropping giant hints. It's a Peruvian opal, by jewelry artist Alexis Russell, and I think it's amazing and looks almost topographical.
So that's the latest with me. Have you caught the lingerie bug yet? Hope you have a fantastic week. Don't forget to do something nice for yourself!
I just printed this pattern to try -- it will be my first Seamwork! Yours looks great -- I don't have any stretch lace so I was going to try it with jersey and pre-made straps. Fingers crossed!
ReplyDeleteWhat a beautiful bra! I've never thought of wearing something without underwires, but like you said: good for lounging and to test the bra making waters. Pretty jewelry, too! :)
ReplyDeleteThanks, Annie and Tanya! I was also thinking it might not be too hard to make an empire waist nightie with this pattern. What do you think?
ReplyDeleteI am planning on making this one up soon! Your's is so gorgeous. I love the colour combination. :) And that necklace.... love! I can see why you were dropping hints for that one. :)
ReplyDeleteThanks, Andie! I hope to see yours when it's finished.
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