It’s the Sleepwear Edition of the Sew a Seasonal Wardrobe challenge on Facebook and I decided to make lounging pyjamas reminiscent of the 1930s, rather than something I would actually go to bed in.
I imagine myself draped languidly on a chaise, maybe with a glass of something splendid in my hand, as I twirl my pearls, utter pithy witticisms, and attempt to look sophisticated.
No? You can’t see it either? Oh, well, how about slumped in a chair, watching television whilst I attempt to crochet another basket? Much more realistic? I agree!
OK, to the nitty gritty of these pyjamas. The fabric came from the Morrison fabric sale this year, so it hasn’t been in my stash for very long at all. I bought the roll, which gave me around 5 metres and it is silky and slippery fabric. It didn’t enjoy being pressed either, and the static electricity created is unbelievable. After I took these rather appalling photos I googled the problem and apparently need to run a wire coat hanger between me and them to get rid of the charge.
The trousers are made from my wide-legged trouser block (other makes here and here). I eliminated the zip and back dart, and put elastic in the waist, to make them comfortable for lounging.
The top was drafted during my pattern making class at Workspace-FADS and is actually a knock off from a well-known designer. It is a really comfortable and easy to wear top – perfect for lolling about in!
The construction of the top is pretty straightforward. The hardest part was turning the tie to the right side and turning the hem up. I like the long tail at the back, but might shorten it the next time I make it. I left off the cuffs as I thought they’d be more comfortable, but will definitely be including them next time. In fact, once I looked at these photos, I decided to put some elastic through the sleeves. I know I look as though I’ve seen something divine here, but I’m actually looking at a part of the house that needs painting!!
Much better I think.
Although these are supposed to be a set, I thought I would maximise their usefulness by separating the pieces and coordinating them with other things. The top, in particular, is nice (nicer?) with fitted black trousers, or even white jeans.
I have lounged around in these, but it’s pretty chilly here, so I had to wear a jumper under them :). I’m actually looking forward to making this top again in a nicer fabric. I have several options in mind – all from my stash of course!