Sewing My Dream Date Night Outfit

When you think of your ideal date what comes to mind? For some people the thought of a fancy restaurant or getting all dressed up would be their perfect evening, but for me, especially being pregnant, the cozier the better. Lou and I have talked for months about how we want to plan a stargazing date where we lay in the back of the truck and enjoy the beautiful night sky here on Maui. Because we’re in the middle of the Pacific Ocean so far from the rest of the world, the lack of light pollution here means the stars are SO bright. So after sewing a few dresses and realizing I would be happier making an outfit I could wear more regularly, I set my sights on creating a sweatshirt and matching jogger set that would be perfect for this date, but also more regular wear in my normal life.

The fabric I used was Classic Organic French Terry in the color Mint from Blackbird Fabrics and the pattern I used was the Mile End Sweatshirt and the Plateau Joggers, both from Closet Core Patterns. The fabric is so soft and I’ve been wearing the sweatshirt almost every day since I made it and it’s the perfect lightweight sweatshirt material. If you were in a colder climate though you could definitely use these patterns with a thicker fabric, I’d just recommend that you use a thinner fabric for the jogger pockets, so that the final product didn’t turn out too bulky.

I learned a lot during this project - how to add cuffs to clothing, how to add darts, and also how to use elastic to add shape to a garmet. I was talking with our Patrons on a Zoom the other day about this project and was saying how I know when I’ve made a lot of progress when I can tweak patterns the way I can just read a recipe and then start cooking without worrying so much about the details. Right now, in my sewing journey, I spend a lot of time trying to understand the pattern, accurately transfer it to the fabric, and I can literally feel my brain growing with all the effort :)

This was the biggest project I’ve undertaken so far and it took me about 5 days to complete, but it’s also the project that I’ve been wearing the most. Going forward I really want to start making more basics - simple t-shirts, comfy shorts, and items that I can wear regularly because putting on something I’ve made by hand brings the biggest smile to my face.

I’d love to hear what projects you’re working on right now? Any other beginner sewers out there? Or seasoned seamstresses with tips for a newbie like me? It’s been so rewarding sharing my sewing projects and learnings with you on Youtube and I can’t wait to see what else I make this year!