Beating the heat...

Summertime...and we're well into the rainy season. The humidity was 94% when I took these pics. That's really muggy, almost raining, and it does rain off and on every day. We get little storms that come and go in 30 minutes, like this one that came in off the ocean. It's great for the garden, and I don't mind getting caught in a shower - I'm pretty drip-dry.

So - summer sewing. And this year it's sleeveless for the first time in over 2 years. This is very exciting for me - it means the inflammation in my arms is diminishing. Any chronic disorder takes an emotional toll, as many of you know, and small victories really matter. For me this is huge!

Good reason to pull out this cotton shirting that I've been hoarding for several months. It's one of my very favorite tropical prints, and I wanted to use it for something I can really enjoy.

Fabric - Hibiscus Lily Tropical Shirting, JoAnns

The pattern is a mash-up that I've been using for a while: a cropped bodice with bust darts, a raised waistband, and a gathered skirt. My pattern is drafted for use with sleeves, but reshaping them was easy once I had the bodice sewn together. I use a very scientific method of standing in front of the mirror with tailor's chalk and marking some trim lines. Several times, because it's better to take off too little than too much!

Looking back, I think I could have used the Tiny Pocket Tee from Grainline Studio as a starting point - it's a basic tank style with bust darts.

The fun part is big ole patch pockets, centered across the side seams. I love them! they're right there - a natural place for my hands to go. No dangling inside pocket. And I don't think they look at all frumpy on this print.

I have these little drugstore sun hats in just about every color :-) They're perfect for short hair.

And I did get chased inside by the rain.

Parting thought...

I hope everyone has a wonderful, safe week - Coco