Operation Stash Busting: Part 1

Here’s a post I wrote nearly a 2 years ago (!!) that’s been languishing in my Drafts. Everything still applies though!

Although I do have plenty of upcoming work, my ongoing goals are to make more time to do my own projects – be it house related or sewing for myself.

Since I have more time to deal with the aftermath of it all, I’m trying to implement better storage solutions and stop ‘making do’ with what I had if it no longer served the purpose. I’ve collected quite the assortment of lovely fabric pieces and notions – mostly thrifted for cheap. Though I’m getting better at knowing the types of things I will actually use, it’s time to face my stash and start using it.

Many of the fabrics I collect fall into 2 categories: Summer cottons and wool suitings. Along with my newly inventoried pattern collection, my goal is to pair them up and add useful pieces to my wardrobe. Most of the things I’ve recently sewn for myself were for specific events and most aren’t appropriate for everyday wear. My style has evolved and many of the items in my wardrobe need to be phased out in favour of a more polished look.

As much as I’d love to dress up all the time, it’s not practical given my various work scenarios. However, I’d like to have a few go-to patterns to make myself wardrobe staples to mix and match. I’ve especially noticed my lack of causal but nice spring and summer attire.

For this purpose I’m really liking the 1960s streamlined mini skirts and mod dresses. They can be dressed up or down for a variety of looks.

I actually made this one (below) up, but its very novelty themed and not really everyday wear.

I’m also wanting to do some shirtwaist dresses and tops to go with skirts.

I never realized how similar these two Advance patterns are.

Tempting to make up a pattern in a similar fabric to the envelope illustration…

I recently acquired a smaller size in this pattern I made up a while back and am hoping it might be more flattering.

This gorgeous 1949 slip pattern would make a lovely sundress or evening frock. I’m also thinking you could hack a bralette from the top of the full slip.

My most recent acquisition is this classic day dress from 1958. It would be great to showcase some awesome patterned fabric since it has minimal darts and shaping.

This one has been in my stash for a while. In my house I actually need slippers in the winter, and these might be good made up in some soft felted wool.

The main roadblock when it comes to expanding my own wardrobe is inevitably my failing to make time and commit to doing things for myself. I’ve been attempting to wear more of my me-made items recently and always get compliments and sometimes jobs. It’s a good reminder that I should be my own advertising!