Pinstripe Party

Okay, I love the McCalls (Palmer/Pletsch) pants pattern (5941). I'm addicted...
This version is done using a pinstripe I found on the clearance shelf at Joann's. I know, I know... I swore off that aisle and promised I'd never set foot there again, but this is from the stash! I love pants with a little stretch and the pinstripes are so slimming (right? RIGHT?!?)! I've got these pants down to a science and can knock a pair out in a day. It would be nice if they had pockets, but they're not necessary, and sometimes more of a pain (ironing)! Here's my review of the pants pattern.

The top is Simplicity 2614, and I got it for a buck this weekend during Joann's 5 for $5 sale. The fabric also came from Joann's, but back in November '08 when I was looking for a woven to pleat for my copper dress. The color wasn't right, so it went into the stash, and I was able to squeeze view E (without the necktie) out of the 1 yard (60" wide) I had. The color is great with the pinstripe pants, but the fabric is a little too stiff, and next time I'll use a drapier blousing fabric. Here's my review of the top pattern. The back is one piece, cut on the bias, and there is a front facing and a back facing (not shown). I'm planning on adding 3 or 4 buttons to the center front seam, as it seems bare to me... Question: What other color top can I wear with these pants (other than white)? My brain wants to "match" things, and isn't so good at being open to what "goes with" them (anyone catch my "What Not to Wear" lingo, there?).

My Chanel jacket muslin is done and ready for NYC, but I'd also like to perfect a different pants pattern. This McCall's is great for stretchy cottons, but I'd like another pattern for drapey wools, with a more classic waist style. I'm thinking of this one from the August BWOF.

If you ever find yourself at Joann's with a 40% coupon and nothing to spend it on, I highly recommend this Fiskars Mini-Rotary cutter (Reg. price $8.99). You just lay your finger inside, aim, and move. No gripping required, so I've seen a lot less carpal-tunnel pain since using this to cut my paper patterns. I wouldn't try it on fabric, but it's awesome on paper!

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Non-Sewing Comment of the Day: Well, it's slightly sewing related... Project Runway is back! I watched the first episode and totally enjoyed every minute of it. Thanks to Michelle for keeping me company (I love the internet!), and I completely agree with the judge's decisions! I DVR'ed the 2-hour "All Star Challenge", but haven't had a chance to watch it yet! I saw who won, but missed the entire middle. Hope the hotel in NY had Lifetime, otherwise where will I watch it???