Have you ever had plans to make a fabulous look, started it, then threw it aside because you were unhappy with the fit on you because your were uncomfortable in your skin? Have you struggled with, “If I loose 10 pounds then this would fit perfectly?” Well, that is exactly how I felt about the bodice of this jumpsuit back in May when I created it. It took a few weeks of summer bootcamp sessions to feel comfortable in my skin to finish it just in time for my birthday.
When I came across this fabulous tie shoulder jumpsuit on instagram from thekemist, I fell in love with it and knew I could recreate it using the Gigi swimsuit pattern I made a year ago. Even though I don't usually muslin my makes, I knew I needed to at least create a muslin (test make) of the bodice, because I was using a woven fabric instead of a knit
I didn't want to create the EXACT replica of the inspiration look but wanted to have a similar silhouette and fit. I knew the front of the swimsuit pattern would work with a waistband. For the bodice, I measured the smallest part of my waist adding an extra 1.5 inches for ease and created a waistband with an inside lining measuring 4.25 inches wide. I also sewed at 5/8 inch seam allowance so the finish waistband measured exactly 3 inches wide.
For the back tie, the width is about 4.5 inches, and a length of 33 inches sewing at a 1/2 inch seam allowance. The back ties are placed 2.5 inches from the side seam with a finish width of 3.5 inches and a length of 32 inches. I basically used the same curve shape from the front pattern piece.
For the pants, I used my favorite jumpsuit pattern M8009 that works for the width of the Ankara fabric which is 45 inches wide. Next time, I would definitely make the pants portion using Vogue 1708 infinity jumpsuit pattern which I believe would work for the inspiration look if the width of the fabric is at least 58 inches wide.
I am so glad I saved this unique Ankara fabric from https://afriqueclothingstore.com who carries an array of exquisite Ankara prints. I ABSOLUTELY can say this is one of my BEST jumpsuit to date. The great news is Afriqueclothingstore has this fabric in stock as well as multiple color ways. Cynthia from Afrique Clothing will be giving away 6 beautiful yards so be sure to stay tuned to our instagram pages to see how you can win this beauty.
Thank you so much for READING and DON'T FORGET TO SUBSCRIBE!! Stay tuned for a STEP by STEP VIDEO on my next make which will be a ROMPER or cute MINI DRESS!! One Love, Marica