The Tiny Closet

I've been talking about romper and jumpsuit shopping for a bit now.  Spring and Summer always remind me that one-pieces are all I really want my Tiny Closet to be made of.  

If only....

If only I could find the perfect collection.  But the search has been so difficult just to find one!  And I mean, I did find one.  But I want another one maybe?

I was way past tired of not finding exactly what I was looking for in a romper or jumpsuit until I was browsing vintage sewing patterns on Crafty Paneen a few weeks ago and I found the absolute perfect jumpsuit sewing pattern from the 80's!  

I snatched it up quick.

Instead of going straight to the obvious knit or white linen to make my classy, one of a kind jumpsuit, 

I chose to go a completely different route and instead, chose a statement print.

Tropical prints on mens clothing in particular is super fresh and urban right now, and I totally wanted to play with that modern style using this old sewing pattern.

Of course, I did take the liberty of making a few simple alterations to the pattern.  I gave myself short sleeves and also put elastic on the sleeves and legs so the jumpsuit would wear more like a track or sweatsuit.  This made it look a bit more classic hip hop, which I wanted but it wasn't too obvious due to the modern print.  

Working with this pattern was brilliant because it reminded me that even though I design clothing for myself, 

I don't always have to create from scratch every time I want something I can't find in the stores.  That can easily become a hassle.  

There's literally thousands of sewing patterns, old and new, to browse through online and in stores to either make yourself or have made for you!  

jumper: vintage pattern from Crafty Paneen / shoes: Vans / lips: M.A.C. Ruby Woo / nail color: American Apparel White

From time to time, sewing special or basic pieces is a wonderful step to creating a one of a kind wardrobe and wearing what you love.   

With your own choice of fabric, prints, and sizing the possibilities are endless! 

Just like a gal's Closet should be :)

On my way home a couple weeks ago, while walking through the Garment District, I spotted a couple rolls of silk that stopped me in my tracks.  "Whaaaaaat?"  I whispered out loud to myself.

I came. I saw.  I bought four yards.

The print came in two colors and I got both!  Now to explain to Theo.

Since I was pretty much cut off from buying any more fabric before using the fabric I already owned, Theo made me promise that I had to make something awesome with the forbidden silk I couldn't walk away from.  So I promised that it wouldn't sit and collect dust.

And it didn't.

The design of this jumpsuit was inspired by a jumper I've had for a while now.  I thought my version would look edgier with a narrow neck, jumbo straps and gypsy ankles.  Sadly, I forgot to get a shot of the back - I forgot to put a zipper on the body so at the last minute I put a big gold zipper on the back of one of the straps - so that I could actually put it on, heehee :)

Anyway, this item is indeed for Summer.  In fact, I think this a rare wardrobe piece that is only fit for one season.  Sigh....  I really don't like having single-season items.  What a waste the rest of the year!  But perhaps I will get some creative ideas on how to wear this perhaps for an evening out with a swing coat during the Fall and Winter months, I mean I do live in the desert after all. It doesn't get that cold...

Any ideas?

jumpsuit: The Tiny Closet Collection / heels: Forever21 / bandeau: Heavenly Couture

I had mentioned in a previous post that I'd probably end up sewing my new wardrobe... I am actually on my way to doing that lol!
So keep visiting to check out more of my new pieces as I make them.  I've got some fun fabrics I'm working with!!

Hope you enjoyed this newest project :)

I chose to wear it as a halter instead of  over the shoulders as the way it was designed.  I simply tucked in the back straps and let it drape.   Halters work better for my build.  Why wear something that doesn't fully flatter your shape?   I am always attempting to tailor my clothing to make it fit for me, even in the smallest ways.
And I definitely keep that in mind when I go thrifting.

I love the evening tone of this item.  And it could look a lot more formal if I'd wanted but last night, I  decided some cork wedges would keep it casual for just evening drinks in Little Tokyo.

I am a one piece's biggest fan.

And I continue to promise myself that I will get more jumpers and playsuits and don't.  Now that I'm in perma-sun weather however, if I can pop on just one statement piece and go, that's reason enough to make a small collection for my Tiny wardrobe.