Haute Shorts and Bias Trim Babydoll Top in Ankara!

It is Summer and that means the need for cool, comfortable and easy clothes. I love cute shorts and fun tops. I have been dying to use some of the Ankara fabric I purchased earlier this year.  Lisa at Pattern and Branch made a pair of Ankara shorts that I thought were so adorable. Following her inspiration, I used the same pattern she did, but mine were not as flattering on me as hers. I searched my stash to find an alternative pattern for my shorts.

I found my Simplicity 1373 pattern that I used to make this tie back top here and liked the look of the shorts. They are simple shorts close fitting shorts with a side zipper.

                                   

I made the shorts in the size 12 with no fit adjustments. I made them as instructed except, I omitted the side slit at the hem and installed an invisible zipper. These shorts were easy to make and the instructions ere easy to follow. I like that these shorts are streamlined and no fuss. I like the length/ ease ratio on these. They are just short enough, while remaining decent and just loose enough, to not be bulky.

  

                   

The babydoll top is made using Simplicity 1693 and trimmed in bias tape made in the Ankara fabric. I cut a size 12 and I found it is too big. It is meant to be loose, but the fit reminds me a maternity top. I think the weight of the cotton may account for the drape. I made one in a rayon and it falls well. I will post a photo wearing it on laundry day. 

                                 

                

I have tried to make continuous bias tape from a fat quarter and never had any luck. I get lost with the lines and cutting direction. I find I have much better luck using a quilt binder ruler. You lay the angle of the ruler on your straight edge of the fabric to get bias. My ruler makes 2.5 inch strips.       

I then passed the through my tape maker and pressed them.

I encased the neckline and armscyes in the trim and sewed. I should have accounted for the hems in those areas and trimmed them down; next time.                     

   

(Carrying my Coffee Bean Bag)

All in all, I love the shorts! The fit works for me and it has a simple silhouette. I will be making these again. I like the top okay, but will not make it in a cotton again. I may try it again in a very drapey fabric.

     

  

Happy Sewing,
Bianca