Challenge #5: A (Refashioned) Simple Top! ~ Diane's Vintage Zest!

Challenge #5: A (Refashioned) Simple Top!

Today, I actually have a new sewing project to share with you!  Stitch Once, Rip Twice's latest challenge was a Simple Top, and I knew that I had to make something nice and breezy for this 80°F weather we have been having here!

Read on for all of the details, including how I turned a huge mishap into a fashionable detail and how this only cost me $1!

*Update* Check out everyone else's garments here!

Challenge #5: A (Refashioned) Simple Top!: Diane's Vintage Zest!


As you remember, we had a challenge and I had a few ideas in mind when I announced it in this post.  I kept wanting to complicate the design with all kinds of details, but I finally just settled for a really simple top!


Simple Top Challenge Button: Diane's Vintage Zest!


I used Simplicity 1614 from my pattern collection for its breezy silhouette.  I decided to go with version D's front and version A/B's back with the detail.  Already getting not-so-simple...


Challenge #5: A (Refashioned) Simple Top!: Diane's Vintage Zest!


For the fabric, I was going through my enormous fabric stash to find something breezy but not sheer.


Finally, I remembered that I had a box of articles of clothing I bought from the swap meet for $1 each with the tags still on them, even if it would make things more complicated for my simple top...  But this shirt was perfect and I couldn't pass it up!  Also, I am a new contributor to the Refashion Co-op and this would be a perfect first post for them!


Challenge #5: A (Refashioned) Simple Top!: Diane's Vintage Zest!
See, there's a little blue tag on the left arm.  Never worn!


This is the final garment!  I love this blouse.  :)


Challenge #5: A (Refashioned) Simple Top!: Diane's Vintage Zest!


Here is a shot of the back with the buttons.  Reminiscent of my last refashion, no?


Challenge #5: A (Refashioned) Simple Top!: Diane's Vintage Zest!


Now, what is the deal with the pocket?  I actually accidentally cut right through the fabric while taking the blouse apart.  Eek!  More complications!  There was a huge V cut over the left chest, so I decided to add a pocket after I patched it up.  Actually, part of me wants to make the pocket a contrasting black fabric instead, which I may revisit later.


Challenge #5: A (Refashioned) Simple Top!: Diane's Vintage Zest!


I used my rolled hem foot for the teeny-tiny hems!


Challenge #5: A (Refashioned) Simple Top!: Diane's Vintage Zest!


One minor detail that came about from the small amount of fabric that I had to work with.  A little section at the underarm that basically includes part of the original sleeve and a seam.  It's almost like a detail on purpose, but it's not perfectly done.  As long as no one stares at my underarm area, I'm okay!


Challenge #5: A (Refashioned) Simple Top!: Diane's Vintage Zest!


Also, for the back detail, I decided to "borrow" the original cuff and the buttons, so it would have an extra bit of detail.  This is one of my more favorite details and I did not even have to use my buttonhole foot!


Challenge #5: A (Refashioned) Simple Top!: Diane's Vintage Zest!


Yay!  Another challenge down, and next week I'm going to share the rest of the group's projects.  They're rolling in on the Facebook page, and I can't wait to share them with you!


Lastly, a question for you: Do I keep the pocket I have or trade it in for a contrasting black fabric?




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