Often little prints don't catch my attention, since usually they are the wrong scale for garments – or adult garments at least. But for some reason I just really liked this little ditsy print from last fall's Lori Holt collection called Home Town, for Riley Blake Designs. I stashed some away and a few months later decided what I wanted to do with it…here is the result. 

Back when I first started sewing with vintage patterns, I made an outfit using this 1950s pattern and some vintage drapes I had picked up at a yard sale (wish I had them now!). It was a stretch for my skill level for the time, and I remember it as being one of the times that began to open my eyes to the reward of taking pains with my sewing. As a result it turned out very nice, instead of my usual early sloppy jobs. 

When I lost weight I had to pass it on, but revisited the top pattern years later as the base for my wedding dress jacket. Now it was time to make it again, this time a simpler version in quilting cotton as a spring suit. 

I really had to squeeze to get everything on, and the skirt is less full than it ought to be. There are a lot of pieces here, and I remembered again why I gravitate towards simple dresses that have less pieces! 

Thankfully it wasn't that challenging since I had made it twice before; just more time consuming. 

The V back is a fun feature, but you really have to keep your skirt straight because it will be noticeable if that back seam drifts to one side or the other!

I also love the scallop detail on the 3/4 sleeves. 

It has a very unique neck. I'm not sure I've ever done another pattern like this, where you face it and then fold and pleat and top stitch it in place to make that detail. 

I was happy to finally find a good fit for this card of 5 vintage butterscotch colored buttons that was in my stash for years!

I like how season-transitional it is, perfect for early spring. It's a pain to iron, but enjoyable to wear!