Nettie Bodysuit by Closet Case Patterns

I'm not going to lie, I almost called this post Nettie Spaghetti. This top has nothing to do with pasta but I'm partial to a rhyming post title.

Though one thing spaghetti and the Nettie both have in common is that they are both simple and delicious. How's that for a segue? You're welcome.

The Pattern

A zillion years ago the incredibly talented and total MINX Heather Lou from Closet Case Files emailed me to see if I would be interested in testing her new pattern the Nettie bodysuit.

Recently I had found myself wishing for the perfect bodysuit that didn't make me look like I was sporting four bum cheeks. I had literally purchased two bodysuits the day before her email where I was forced once again to cut ugly slits in the bottoms. I couldn't believe my eyes when I saw the new sewing pattern. Clearly Heather Lou is a wizard (and possibly a mind reader).

Fabric

The garment requires a four way stretch/knit fabric for movement and a nice close fit. I made my Nettie with Ponte which is only a two way stretch and quite thick. It's not the ideal fabric for this top and you don't get that really fitted second-skin look, but I still love how it turned out.

What I love
Firstly, there are two different neck versions depending on how much boobage you want to show. Then there are three different variations at the back from high to low. On top of that you also have the option to make this bad boy into a dress. So many possibilities. I made mine with the scoop neck and the medium scoop back.

The real genius of this design comes in the low cut bottom for extra comfort and the elimination of the dreaded pantyline. I can't tell you what a difference this makes! How has no one thought of this before?

The bodysuit also comes with a bust-shelf option for those wanting to go bra-less.

Oh and it takes only a few hours to put together! Emotional!

Styled with

Skirt and belt from Alannah Hill

Personalised necklace from Strangely Yours

Lipstick - NARS Matte Multiple in 'Siam'

Shoes 'Piccola Italy' from Joanne Mercer 

I am loving this fabulous pattern and the fact that it's quick and easy means I can boost my wardrobe with many and without too much effort. LOVE!

Pro bono - Kimono

I don't know when - I don't know how - I don't know why, but I suddenly came over with the urge to own a silk kimono. 

Then I stumbled across this online tutorial over at Elle Apparel and I fell in love. Basically you could say her awesome and free tutorial is a 'pro bono - kimono'. Yes I love it because it rhymes. Sorry not sorry.

I just feel like a lady wearing this thing youknowwhatI'msayin?!!

Details

Using this tutorial I was able to create this little beauty in two hours, that inludes the time it took to cut it out. Whhhhaaaaat?!

It's a great pattern for the beginner seamstress and the perfect accessory to pretty up any outfit.

Fabric

I used about 1.15 metres of a stunning designer silk that I purchased from The Fabric Store in Melbourne. Have you seen anything as beautiful as this? I mean come on, it has gold leaves through out the pattern! My heart!

Changes

Instead of cutting the measurements out directly onto the fabric, I made pattern pieces first on paper and then used those to cut out the fabric.

I also used french seams to piece the kimono together instead of just serging the edges. It takes longer, but it makes the delicate fabric look neater on the inside. This quick to make kimono would be even faster how ever if you just serged all the edges together.

I also attached the sleeves flat onto the bodice front and back before I joined the side seams together. I then sewed the side seams of the bodice and the sleeves all together in one go. This makes it easier to work out the positioning of the sleeves.

Conclusion

I love this look, and I especially love how fast and easy it is to make! I already have ideas for more as they are the perfect way to glamorise any outfit.

Harry and I also had a great time taking photos in the park. This guy just loves being outside.

So anyone else have a craving for a kimono? You're not alone! Have a great week everyone!