I stitched up these accessories to add a lady-like look to enhance my wardrobe…See them featured in Nov./Dec. issue of Sewn Magazine.

Check out this quick transformation from a man’s shirt to a cute top ready for the luau.

So I totally cut out this top without even thinking about the unbalanced stripes.  I was pretty disappointed and thought that it was a done deal, especially since I have a personal sewing pet peeve about matching stripes and only had minimal yardage of the fabric to start off with. I really liked the fabric so I pondered over a solution, the challenge: how do I change the perception of continuous flowing stripes? Out of no where, the solution: ruffles came to mind.  A creative distraction, if you will, the birth of my “Angel Wings” ruffles.

I’m sure this is how a number of fashion designs happen by trial and error.  But wait, my resolution still was not complete. As I scanned my fabric stash for navy or green fabric to construct the ruffle design, I came up empty handed. I was determined this top was going to get completed! So I remembered I had recently bagged some items to be given away. And wha-la a pair of navy pants was in the bundle. I pulled those suckers out, removed the stitches and navy fabric was now at my disposal! I guess you can see my projects become my babies and I find joy in bringing them to life. The  “Angel Wing” ruffle was constructed out of a navy crepe and off-white cotton (used what I had).

The simple lesson here, give your project another thought. Turn your Flaws to Fabulous, you never know what idea an Angel may give you 🙂

Check out the four pieces I created to walk this year’s MimiG Fashion and Sewing Conference Runway. I enjoyed sewing these looks and bringing my vision to life.

First, this Ivory jumpsuit made from a linen texture fabric. Walking the many aisles of fabrics,  I allowed this texture to speak to me. Thinking outside the box, believe it or not it’s an upholstery fabric. To create this jumpsuit I masterfully combined MimiG’s Simplicity 1115 and a 1950’s Vintage Simplicity 8130.

To accompany the ivory jumpsuit I paired it with a tangerine orange cotton/rayon ruffle open front jacket.

This jacket was crafted by combining MimiG’s Simplicity 8177  coat and the ruffle from S8394.

Take note this jacket has NO side seams, to achieve this I made a muslin jacket and then used it as a one piece pattern to cut. Then I simply made a circular cut and then attached a double ruffle. I love color so I lined it with a hot pink!

For look two, I pin it as my interpretation of “Avant-Garde meet Everyday.” Green polka dots, one puff sleeve with “Snap-off” top which reveals a one-shoulder jumpsuit underneath. Created the jumpsuit by combining MimiG’s S115 and S8380. I drafted the bias snap-off top with Puff sleeve. 

This puff sleeve consists of four fabrics: Polka dot chiffon, green cotton/rayon, interfacing and a cotton lining.

Get ready! View the “snap-off”.

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Enjoyed making this sweet top using Simplicity 8335, ideal for someone learning to sew. Today’s message, ‘Time and Purpose’, understanding God’s timing is key in fulfilling your purpose. T=Treasure I=Investment M=Measured E=Eternal.

Made this vintage off the shoulder dress last summer which is now….on trend! Added a floral band as anklet and Bam I was ready, ALOHA!

Looking forward to sharing my creative space on upcoming edition of Sew Sew Def magazine.

Shop here for the full collection

During this National Sewing Month (September), I decided to take on some vintage sewing. Crafted this frock with details; added pipping to the ruffle and belt. I enjoy sewing with meaning that is personal to me, therefore I selected this 1978 pattern, the same year I graduated from high school. Walking in my style, confidently. So I’m ahead of the trend for SS/2017 Ruffles and Floral.

I’m attracted to circular patterns, so I created this circle sleeve. This fabric tho, is a must see puff/quilted texture with pocket flaps and a belt.

So I’m a southern girl (a Georgia Peach :), and was raised to appreciate etiquettes of fashion, I thought I’d post this white dress before tomorrow’s Labor Day, however, to me WHITE is a crisp~bright~fresh neutral, so here’s fair warning, you’ll probably find me in White throughout the year! I’m a image consultant and designer confident in my walk, yep White and all. It’s ok to wear white after labor day.

I packed up all the sewing gear, took this project on the road and turned the hotel room into a mobile sewing studio. With modifications to Vogue pattern 1513, I created a full skirt and round neckline, this pattern is for an intermediate seamstress. I love the ruffle detail that wraps to the back.

Nautical stripes and ties bring life to this 70s frock. I enjoy adding details to my looks; ties on the sleeves and inside finishings. In addition I added pockets and alternating stripes.

A fashion show displaying Mimi G patterns or DIY tutorial. Here are the Top 4 looks of the fashion show, excitedly my design placed 2nd!

Day 1 in LA ~ Fashion show highlights

Showcased two looks, the first is a three piece tunic and pants with a removable off shoulder accent piece. Look 2 fabric was inspired from my favorite beverage, “Lemonade”, a side button sundress. This was an amazing experience, honored to be a part of creative like minded women. Thank you father for the creative gift and the opportunity for the outlet.

Day 2 ~ Ready to learn sewing tips from the break out sessions…

…but first, I’m presented with my 2nd place prize, YAaasss. Grateful! Then we were filled with sewing tips and knowledge. Making a sloper, “Giant Inch”, Garment finishings and Fit. I wound down the evening in a relaxing spot in LA sun. I made the jumpsuit.

Day 3 ~ Speakers and LA fashion district shopping

Wow! so honored, MimiG commented on a photo and even started following me, YaY!

This 2-in-1 look jumpsuit is so classy and refreshing. Made from MimiG’s Simplicity last summer, style is on point for spring/summer.

www.constancekimblefranklin.com