Inspiration: Mondo Guerra Fall 2011 Collection

Do you watch Project Runway? I'm addicted to that show!

If you do watch it, then you'll probably already know Mondo Guerra. He was one of Season 8 finalists and he lost after a very controversial decision of the judges. I really like Gretchen Jones' creations as well, but I would have liked to see him win better.

He's incredibly talented and creative, I adore his style. His 2011 Fall Collection is quite similar to his final catwalk show on Project Runway, and I love them both. The way he mixes prints, the splashes of colour on a black and white foundation, the high waisted pants...

I really hope this is the start of a very successful career.

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The unforgotten

Did it ever happen to you to make something and then (almost) completely forget about it?
That's what happened to me with this Rooibos dress that I finished shortly before Christmas and that has been hiding in my closet for almost three months!

Since I made it in wool, it won't get much wear anymore, since it seems like Spring is finally on its way. But of course, while taking photos, it started raining. I mean, WTF? Why do I seem to have problems every time I take my tripod outside my house?

Anyway, this is yet another love token to Colette Patterns. Another dress with many cute details: contrasting piping, the tiny collar, the shape of the pockets. I added two little buttons inspired by Gertie.
I just wish I had made it in a smaller size (why did the muslin seem to fit right?), but maybe I'll make a summery version of it and I'll be able to make up for this mistake. I'm also considering shortening it a few cm... Please let me know what you think!

The best of the week

Hi guys, how was your week? I caught a very annoying cold (I guess I'm getting too old to go to bed with wet hair) but I'm better and I'm hoping to get lots of sewing done this weekend.

1. Sherry says this dress is unnecessary, but it's so beautiful! Plus, she provided great explations on the construction.
2. Sarai's amazing skills never stop to amaze me... I mean, look at this dress!
3. Kasia explains how to achieve perfect buttonholes. I love her tutorials, they are so clear!
4. This dress by The Sew Convert has so much cute details. Run to her blog to see them all.

Finally, I really enjoyed this post at Sew Happy Clothes on when you know when you like to sew. That's so true!

Happy weekend, everyone!

Burda Easy Fashion SS2011

The photos appeared on the Russian Burda website and I had to give my opinion!
There are a few pieces that I like:

Two drapey tops. I especially like the second one, with the gathered shoulders and the crossed sections.

This blazer, although I guess there are better patterns in other regular Burda issues...

High waisted short. Very cute, but who am I kidding? I don't have the body to pull these off.

A romantic dress. Or maybe I only like the fabric they chose?

Here's my overall opinion: there are a few cute pieces, but there are too many variations of a very small number of patterns. Plus, they look like very basic designs (lots of elastic waistbands, for example).

It would probably be great for an absolute beginner (the instructions are also usually much better than the ones in regular Burda), but I don't know if I will spend 5 euros for it (why is it more pricey than Burda if it contains less patterns???).

Well, to be honest, I'm afraid I'll end up buying it anyway. When I skip an issue, I always feel like I might be missing on something, even if I have already seen the contents online. Does it happen to you too or am I the only Burda junkie?

Pay it Forward 2011

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I seem to talk about her blog a lot, but she keeps on surprising me with great ideas!
I just read on Nette's blog about Pay it Forward 2011.

How does it work?

The first five people who comment on this blog post will receive a handmade gift from me.

The only requirement in return, you must FIRST write a blog post explaining 'Pay It Forward 2011'.
Then, about the most exciting part, make and send a handmade gift to the first 5 visitors who comment and commit to do the same.
Don't worry about time. You don't need to send them all today or tomorrow.
Gifts from the heart take time and are worth waiting for them!

Isn't it brilliant? A little gift can go a long way and make someone's day!

The best of the week

First of all, a big thank you for all the lovely comments on my swing dress...

They really made my day!

1. Stephanie drafted the pattern for this blouse herself and I think it couldn't look better!
2. A beautiful shirtdress in a lovely colour by Janet.
3. Freya shared a very interesting article on how to start your own business.
4. Chie's Secret Garden lookbook is just to die for! Plus, I ADORE every single garment in it.

I also want to give you the links to the admirable bloggers who started raffles in order to gather donations for Japan. It's a good action and there are some great prizes, so check them out if you haven't already:

happyserendipity

iroiroCrafts

Molly-Made
Nettevivante
VeryPurplePerson

And that's it! Have a great weekend, everyone!
I have started a couple sewing projects and I hope to finish something...

Swing dress the REAL showing party

Yes, I kinda messed up last week: Casey had postponed the final party and I hadn't read about it. So, here are a couple more shots of my dress. I hope I'll be able to wear it without a cardigan and tights soon... After three days of non-stop rain, it's finally sunny today! :)
Even though I don't seem in a "party" mood, I really happy with my final dress and with the sew-along in general... I learned a lot! So thanks again, Casey!
Here is a list with all the other finished dress. Go check it out!

 

While I'm here writing, I want to wish a happy 150th birthday to Italy and all the best to my fellow Italians out there. Let's hope our country is going to be better soon!