PRP Week 1: Winter Blues

In case you haven't noticed (which you probably hadn't because who reads this blog anyway) I'm a terrible blogger!  I would so much rather be sewing than clunking around on my computer trying to put up a blog post.  But there is one thing that never fails to drag my technologically challenged self out of my sewing room and onto this here screen, and that is Project Run and Play.  I don't quite understand why I love it so much, but I do!  It challenges me to sew things I wouldn't have otherwise.  And I love a good deadline, it's the only way I actually accomplish stuff around here.

So without further ado, I present my Winter Wonderland inspired look:  Winter Blues

Don't let my title fool you, I'm actually a big fan of winter!  We look forward every year to our annual snowmobiling trip to the cabin, complete with 8+ feet of snow and subzero temperatures!  Over the years I've learned how to appropriately dress for such occasions, but getting the kids to cooperate can prove to be quite the challenge.  Comfort is key and layering is essential, you never know how cold (or hot) they will be. 

I've created quite a few different pieces to create the perfect winter wonderland look. The outer layer features a super soft and comfortable sweatshirt, up-cycled from an old men's sweatshirt.  The cowl neck gives the sweatshirt a slightly preppier feel and helps keep his little neck warm.  It's comfortable yet stylish, without restricting any movement.

 The pants is probably one of the most professional looking garments I've ever sewn. I was fortunate enough to test the newly released Small Fry Skinny Jeans from Titchy Threads, and I am so in love with this pattern!  The fit is exactly what I want in a skinny jeans, not too slim but not too baggy. I made these pants in a wool/polyester blend suiting that is slightly thicker than your average suiting material.  It's the perfect weight for these pants.  Comfortable and stylish with the slim fit, yet thin enough to allow for extra layers underneath.  The pants feature adjustable waistband, flat felled seams on almost all seams, patch pockets, half fly, and the cutest belt loops you've ever seen!  Complete with contrast waistband facing to tie into the whole "blue" theme. 

As we shed the outer layer we come to my most favorite part of the look, the ever important base layer.  Comfort and flexibility are key, and I think I nailed it on these pieces.  Made from upcycled knit T-shirts, this long sleeved shirt and long john's are essential pieces in any little guys winter wardrobe.  Both are fitted enough to fit nicely under whatever else he may be wearing, but thanks to the lovely stretch in knit not restrictive in the least.  Since both garments were upcycled from existing T-shirts, I had to get creative in my cutting.  It's hard to tell in these pictures, but both the sleeves and legs are made up of three separate pieces, an element I think added some fun detail to an otherwise basic item.  

I spiced up the long john's with fun little lightning bolts stamped all over.  I was really worried how these would turn out, but I LOVE them... by far my most favorite piece in the look!  They also feature a fully functioning fly for the little guy.    

 

And when not in use as base layers they are perfect for lounging around the house reading books.  

That concludes my Winter Blues look, congrats if you made it to the end of the post! Here's a few outtakes for you to enjoy....

 Other details if you're interested:
Sweatshirt: Pattern, Varsity Cowl Neck by Peek a Boo Patterns.  Fabric, upcycled mens sweatshirt.
Pants: Pattern, Small Fry Skinny Jeans by Titchy Threads. Fabric, wool blend suiting from Joann's.
Long Sleeved Top: Pattern, Ottobre 6/2013.  Fabric, upcycled knit T-shirts.
Long John's: Pattern, also Ottobre 6/2013.  Fabric, upcycled knit T-shirts.