Tuesday, April 8, 2008

Almost there . . . wait, I passed it!

That's how I'm feeling about the Wardrobe Contest. Back when I signed up for it in February, I couldn't imagine I'd ever finish 4 tops, 4 bottoms, a jacket and an accessory by the end of April. But here it is, not even the middle of the month, and I've managed to finish 5 tops, 5 bottoms and a leather jacket. I've scared myself here. (I still have to finish the bag, but it's almost done.)

Last night was a mini-marathon. I have a time-sensitive project for someone else that I need to start on, which of course is why I decided to finally trace off BWOF 1/08 #116 and finish it, and then, because I couldn't commit to taking one of my existing tops out of the wardrobe to even things out, to make a matching pair of pants out of some brown RPL I just happened to have in stash. The fact that I still have an enormous stash left after making a 10-piece coordinating wardrobe is also scary.

I started sewing last night around 6:30, took a break around 9:30 to post the review of the BWOF top, and then went back in around 10:30 to do a little work on the brown pants. A little work. At 12:30 a.m., I finished hemming the pants, took their picture and did a quick add-on review before bed. By that point I was so energized I couldn't sleep. The hamster was running full tilt in my head and I wanted to get up and spend the night at the machine, but my back said no more and I eventually went to sleep.

Vacation is only a month away and I love that I'm going to be able to take an entire self-made wardrobe to Paris. The shoes won't be quite what I'd envisioned for each outfit, because of the mileage I'll be putting on each day, but I went to Aerosoles and got a pair of comfy near-flats that feel like sneakers and look like shoes, so at least I'll be somewhat stylish.

I think I should take the whole shebang except the tunic (which will wrinkle too much from being packed) and maybe the tan pants, since they will show the most wear. I can definitely get two wearings each out of the brown and black pants, and I'll take the black and tan skirts and one pair of jeans for going to the flea market. All the other tops are stretch fabrics which can be washed in the hotel sink if need be. For outerwear, either the black leather jacket I made or, depending on the forecast, a slightly heavier RTW one that I haven't been able to wear yet this season, and I should be set. No boots, no gloves, no bulky sweaters. I've never done Europe in weather that didn't require heavy clothes. That's one of the best parts of the whole trip for me.

That, and I'm sure I'll fit in a little fabric shopping time in Paris. Somehow. By any means possible.

16 comments:

Adrienne said...

Cute tops!!! I made a dress tonight out of the fabric from that middle top!! Love it!

stacysews said...

I love the new tops!! Those fabrics are gorgeous - especially the first one.

Dawn said...

I love your colors! I like all of those tops you made. Especially that Burda wrap one. Too cute!

Paula Gardner said...

Those tops are all fantastic. I can hardly wait to see pictures of you wearing all of them in Paris!

Tamara said...

Your tops are fantastic. I especially love the top one, the fabric and the style. What pattern did you use?

Berry said...

I wish I'd pass it too but I have serious doubts :o( Congratulations, you made some really nice tops!

Keely said...

Wow! I love all your tops. Well done for reaching - and passing - your goal.

cidell said...

YAY!!!!

Elaray said...

Wow! Good work. The tops are really cute and I love the colors.

Meg said...

Nice job! BTW, when I was in Paris last spring all the women were wearing ballet flats. I found a pair that were fashionable but comfortable and wore those everywhere.

Kitty Couture said...

Wow, congrats on putting together your wardrobe for Paris!
(I know I still owe you an email on that one, Karen.)

Cennetta said...

Congratulations on your SWAP. All of your garment are very nice and I wish I was on my way to Paris. Have BIG fun!

Reethi said...

How cool that you are done! And I love the tops! I decided I was going to do the contest too a week back, so hopefully, it is possible (though crazy) to do 10 pieces in 20 days.

Kat said...

Karen, these are beautiful tops!!!

Ann Made Studio said...

I love all your tops. Nice work!

laura said...

I love the tops and you'll be glad you have them. Both pretty and comfortable!! Believe me, you'll look like a fashion plate over there. I saw nothing but black the entire time I was there. From head to toe, I kid you not!! I was a little disappointed. But at least the stores were colorful. I'm a little jealous because I'm sure you'll get to sick at a sidewalk cafe. We didn't! It was just too cold.