I’m not sure how’s the weather outside your window, but from where I’m standing is looks like Spring is a bit late ..
Obviously I’m not complaining (despite the 2, soon to be 3, weeks of never-stop raining …), as I know the changing of the seasons can be unpredictable 😦
Still, and as far as sewing is concern, the real issue right now, is should I still sew for winter? Or do I start sewing for the warmer weather?
There’s the reason why long sleeve blouses are always on top of my choices when sewing for my girl. A long sleeve blouse can easily be worn all-year and it’s a must-have piece in my girl’s close.
Usually, I prefer loose-fitting designs that could be made in woven fabrics – the type of fabric will vary in accordance with the season.
I have several blouse patterns in my collection but there are a few that I still have to tackle. The Ainlsey blouse (and skirt) from Children’s Corner was one of those patterns.
I purchased it (together with several others from a shopping sale) but I just kept pushing it to the bottom of my list. For no special reason. Just because.
Nevertheless, a few months ago I got this fabric online (sorry, it’s no longer available) and I immediately though about CC Ainsley. These two were just meant to be …
Unfortunately, the combination of a very color saturated print (blue and green) and the current (not-typical) gray/rainy weather and my (typical), made me postpone this post for too long. This blouse was terribly difficult to capture …
Even when my little model was willing to cooperate, this blouse was not intended to be photographed (the colors/print look too muted and blurry) …
This blouse features a square neckline (which I love) but can be easily worn over winter. I just add a collar tee-shirt underneath (as pictured above).
The blouse is gathered in the front and back and includes a narrow topstitched waistband – which I skipped for a more casual/modern look. The back closes with buttons.
The long sleeve has a slit at wrist and is slightly gathered onto a small sleeve band that buttons (the pattern also includes a short sleeve option with a tiny ruffle). I really love this detail as it gives it such a professional look (and yes, it’s easy to sew).
Although this blouse has been in heavy rotation all winter, I can still envision it being worn now that the weather is starting to warm up (at least, I’m hoping it will).
We took advantage of a bit of sunshine a few weeks ago, to get a few action pictures – outside 🙂
I’m partial on children’s Corner patterns as I do love their timeless, simple designs and the way they fit my girl, but I would recommend this pattern to the confident seamstress (or maybe a beginner willing to take a challenge).
Plus, the Ainsley pattern also includes an A-line skirt, which I still haven’t tried. It’s already on my list and I’ll keep you posted when I sew it. I love the versions I saw so far and I’m sure it will also be a great addition to her spring wardrobe.
I made a size 7 for my (tall) girl and probably could have added a few inches to the length. Nonetheless, the blouse was made in September, so that could explain why it’s already running a tad bit short on the sleeves.
Not that my girl really cares about it.
As far as she’s concern this is a perfect blouse for twirling and jumping.
I know that the following picture is blurry than the ones above, but it’s her favorite and she asked me to included it in the post.
As this was such a difficult blouse to capture (not the pattern fault, which is delightful), I decided “why not”?
As I was revising this post (and adding the pattern link) I realize that Children’s Corner Store is currently having a CC sewing pattern sale until Saturday (April 18-23). Off to take a look …
Technical info
Pattern: Ainsley Blouse from Children’s Corner | Paper pattern (unnnested on tissue. i.e. there’s a pattern piece for every size. No need to trace off.)
Size made: size 7, minus the waistband (pattern ranges from 2-5 years and 6-10 years)
Difficulty: Confident Beginner (based on my opinion)
Fabrics used: Soft cotton
Happy sewing,
xo Ana Sofia
Delightful, Ana Sofia
Thank you Nicole! She loves this type of loose-fit blouses ❤
I love this outfit! Do you make a size larger when pairing with a t-shirt underneath? Also, where do you find those ruffle-neck t-shirts?
Thank you!
To be honest, I didn’t make a size larger because I was hoping she could wear it with nothing underneath. Still, because it’s not a slim fit blouse, it can be easily paired with a light t-shirt underneath (a skirt might be tricky).
I can easily find these ruffle-neck tees in local shops. Still, I do find them a bit expensive (usually I stock during sales) so I’ve been experimenting with some patterns (Mattie from Children’s Corner, Metro tee from Oliver+S and also several patterns from Ottobre magazine). You can see/read more about my Mattie tee here: https://sisforsewing.wordpress.com/2015/01/19/on-coordinating/.
Lovely blouse! The fabric is perfect. I love that blue and green combination.
Muchas gracias María!
Unfortunately this print didn’t photograph very well. It’s more lovely in real life.
Que bonita!! Gosto tanto do pormenor dos punhos…
Obrigada Carla!
Também adoro – dá-lhe um ar mais profissional e não foram nada complicados de fazer!
I think you must have the best dressed child around! Love the combinations of colours and fabrics in the outfits you choose.
Thank you! You’re so kind!
I wish, but I don’t really think so – usually she likes to add her “own” personal touch to her outfits (i.e. she’s always a mess by the end of the day).
C’est ravissant Sofia!!
Merci ❤
CHIC blouse sewn in a truly LOVELY fabric. I always love your photo shoots and your model! BRAVO, Ana Sofia! Thanks for sharing. Sarah in Minneapolis
Thank you so much Sarah 🙂
You’re always so kind.
Sempre tão delicada Ana. E o tecido!!! ❤
Obrigada Magda ❤
O tecido é maravilhoso – sarja básica de algodão, com umas cores lindas e continua impecável depois de tantas lavagens 🙂