I've been thoroughly enjoying myself here in Florida. So far we have done lots of shopping and lots of eating, even spotted a couple alligators! Tomorrow on the agenda is laying on the beach. I will finally get to test out my Bombshell. Saving vintage Simplicity 5644, Jiffy Bikini for another day. While I have some down time I thought I'd real quickly share my recent post for the Fabric Mart blog here (they should have it up on their site in a few days.) Warning!! Some rather goofy pics ahead. I was in the process of packing for my trip so I was in a really good mood. :)

One of my most favorite types of fabric to work with is cotton. It’s natural, versatile and super easy to care for. Slap a fun print on that cotton and I’m sold!  I purchased this cotton lawn from Fabric Mart a few months ago when I seen its beauty popping up in my Instagram feed. C'mon hearts AND cherries!? I couldn't resist.  I believe they also sold the same print in a mint color but unfortunately I do not see either of the two still available on their site. Only makes me wish I would have bought more. Lawns are light and flowy which make them ideal during the summer months. When I purchased this fabric I knew exactly what pattern I was going to use, the Mimi Blouse by Tilly and the Buttons.

The Mimi Blouse pattern is available in Tilly Walnes's new book, Love at First Stitch. Buy the book here or on Amazon.  As soon as Tilly released on her blog all the patterns to be in the book I quickly pre ordered a copy. I think they are all adorable. Tilly’s red version of the Mimi Blouse only helped to seal the deal.

One of the things I love about the book is with each pattern Tilly gives you ideas on how to make it your own. For the Mimi Blouse in particular such things like exchanging the collar for a peter pan collar, piping the yoke or adding fabric covered buttons.  Another nice touch I found in is on each pattern piece. The book is written with beginner's in mind so those may find it helpful that the patterns have extra labeling. For example on the yoke pattern piece the shoulder seam is clearly labeled. Also labeled are where the front and back bodice joins so you don’t get confused as to what attaches where (as I still sometimes do).

I made a size 2 and didn’t make any fitting alterations. I usually test a muslin but I didn't with this pattern. I instead measured my pattern pieces and compared those measurements to my own and to similiar RTW clothing I already had that I liked the fit of. I'm noticing in pictures now that I probably could of used a swayback adjustment. I will account for that in my next version.

My favorite parts of this blouse are the Chelsea collar, gathered yoke and pleated sleeves. Ok, ok I like it all! The pleated sleeves and sleeve facings were a first for me.  I did my sleeve facings a little different then instructed. Instead of folding the facing and having it completely hidden under the sleeve I folded it in half and slip stitched it in place to form a teeny tiny sleeve band.

I just so happened to have the perfect buttons in my stash…tiny pearl hearts to match the print! I tried to get closeup pictures but they were rather difficult to photograph so instead can we get another look at that adorable collar!? I just love it!