I actually went about this making 2 pieces - the top and a corresponding necklace. I didn't have the patience to hand-sew all of the crystals onto the collar and then worry about how it'd do in the washing machine, so took the easy way out.
I made the top using a heavy weight cream-colored knit and a silk-blend herringbone fabric. I modified Butterick's B5520 pattern to become a tee-like top (with slimmed sleeves and chest), rather than a dress bodice. If you are sleeves-phobic, this is a VERY good pattern because all of the seaming is straight and you don't have to fiddle with easing a sleeve into an armscye (something I am TERRIBLE at). The peter pan collar was hand drafted.
The necklace is made from crystals woven into a collar pattern (trial & error) using Beadalon as the stringing material.
I've also been using my serger for narrow hemming some scarves, so be on the lookout for a scarf giveaway soon!
What a fabulous DIY! I've always admired that J.Crew sweater, but the price was too steep and I heard it wasn't the best fit. I just LOVE your version. . . so creative!
ReplyDeletexo Jenny
www.crazystylelove.com
I would seriously buy this...if you have any time to sew a second one, please email me...lovely!!!!
ReplyDeleteWow i love the top and the collar is so pretty
ReplyDeleteKatattack2000.wordpress.com
Brilliant idea to make the beads as a removable necklace. You always comes with clever idea.
ReplyDeleteWhat a smart idea you made two pieces! I'm too afraid to buy any piece with the beads since I'm too lazy to hand wash then do not know how to wash it without losing some beads.
ReplyDeleteYou are a genius!! I love that. Is the herringbone a knit also?
ReplyDeleteYou are too kind - thank you! The herringbone is actually a silk suiting material without any stretch. I actually made the back out of the cream knit too so that it would be a more form-fitted piece.
DeleteI love that the jeweled piece is separate b/c you're right, dealing with that during a wash is hard! Can't wait to see this scarf giveaway!!!
ReplyDeleteYour creativity and sewing skills never ceases to amaze me!! :D Your version looks so sporty and versatile!! Love it!! xoxo, Phoebe
ReplyDeleteTotally gonna have to try this! The necklace, because I'm hopeless with a sewing machine. xD I think your DIY is better than the inspiration!
ReplyDelete*blushes* Thank you! Let me know how the necklace goes!
Deletei so wanted this sweater. i coudln't find it anywhere though by the time i discovered it.
ReplyDeleteyou made it look better than the crew version which i found way too boxy. like caroline, i'd totally buy this from you.
ReplyDeletenow do you see why i named you DIY royalty? :)
xox P
Wow! Great job!! Love herringbone patterns!
ReplyDeleteGorgeous! What a flattering fit. I agree with P; you are DIY royalty! xoxo
ReplyDeleteUm, yeah. You're just awesome.
ReplyDeleteYou always come up with such multi purpose ideas! Love it!!
ReplyDeleteYou're so creative. How do you have the time for all these projects?
ReplyDeleteyou should each me to sew =]
http://shortandsweetjoy.blogspot.com/
Aw, you're sweet! Each item is usually the product of many days' worth of naps and random docile children moments LOL
Deletelove what you did! i wish i could DIY stuff!!
ReplyDeletexo,
Sandy
Sandy a la Mode
oh, this is one of my favorites! i'm amazed that these DIYs are still coming so often!
ReplyDeleteWow this is awesome!! you must sell on Etsy!!
ReplyDeleteOh, well done! Already the wheels are turning in my head. Thanks for posting such great material {HaHa - no pun intended}.
ReplyDeleteSue xo
This is amazing! Where is the fabric you used from?
ReplyDeleteAw, thank you! The knit is from Hancock and the herringbone is from Fabric.com
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