Basic Schmasic

I almost didn't photograph this blouse because it is so simple, so basic, so...boring, that I thought, why bother?  But I shortened my rust corduroy skirt recently (after wearing it at an unflattering 30" length all last winter) and wanted to show that as well.  I'm much happier with the new length. 

 I adjusted the fit of the skirt almost immediately after making it last fall--it came out too big in the waist, as per usual, so I added darts after those first photographs (I've since figured out how to avoid this problem--the last three skirts I've made fit beautifully in the waist!)  I may need to go back and deepen the back darts this year, as the waist is getting slightly too big again.  I could also add Petersham to the waistband, as it isn't interfaced and could use some structure.  

I do love rust and navy together--it is such a rich autumnal palette.

This blouse is my last planned project for my fall season--a navy blue polka dot Portrait blouse.  I think it will work well across all seasons, and I'm eager to try it with some layers underneath too.  I guess I like to show even the boring makes because they represent a solid corner of my closet, and really, the basics are what most of us wear most of the time anyway.  Amiright?

*crickets*

Right.  Details: I used some random quilt-weight cotton from Joann's, and I'm hoping it softens up with repeated washing, because it is slightly stiff right now after one wash and dry.  Not terrible, but a little stiffer than I really prefer.  Probably excess sizing, as the fabric is soft enough and has a decent thread count.  

Navy blue bias thread, top stitching in navy.  Nothing of note about the construction.  The whole blouse came together in under 2 hours, including cutting time.  

And this is how I roll when I pop a dime-size blister on the back of my heel (again!--same place as in August, darn bone spurs):  

I discovered the best way to protect a really big blister pop is to put a blister band-aid over it, then a strip of moleskin, then a big ol' strip of kinesiology tape. 4 miles of hills on the treadmill this morning and had no pain.

Just the facts:

Navy polka dot blouse: Portrait blouse (from Gertie's New Book for Better Sewing, sleeves slightly modified), Stonehill Collection Fabric

Rusty Buttons skirt: me-made fall 2014, McCall's 4275 and vintage Simplicity 1797 pockets, Kaufman corduroy, random vintage button, bias tape, zip, hook/eye

Acorn earrings and necklace: etsy

Shoes: Old Navy via ThredUp