A few weeks ago, with Autumn just around the corner, I decided to move Corduroy dungarees to the top of my make list. I had a browse on the Jenny Stitches website and fell in love with the 8 wale cotton corduroy in purple. There is a great selection of corduroy available, from needlecord to jumbo, and with a nice variety of prints and colours.
I have previously never worked with corduroy before, and had no idea what 8 wale meant, but Jenny had a handy description on the listing so that I could make an informed decision (8 wale means that there are eight ribs per inch, FYI). I love darker jewel tones for autumn, so knew that it would fit right in with my wardrobe.
It was a really nice fabric to work with, although as with most corduroy it did leave a lot of debris as I cut it, so be prepared! The colour is lovely and rich, and it is a bargain at £10 p/m.
I also required a lining fabric, and I lean towards a funky lining so went for the Shelly viscose in purple which has a fun, 80s vibe and is also available in Sage green. It has given my dungarees the perfect personal touch.
After considering a few options, I decided to work with the Tilly and the Buttons Erin pattern. Erin comes in sizes 6-34 and is one of those great patterns that can be made up in both knit and woven fabrics. There are three leg length options (from romper to full length) and two strap options. The bib is lined with princess seams, and there is a low waist seam with inseam pockets.
I made a couple of alterations. Firstly, I really wanted a pocket on the front bib, so I self-drafted one and added a cute little Kylie and the Machine label to the seam. Secondly, I had intended on making the full-length version, however managed to accidentally skip the step when assembling the pattern when you add an extra small piece on to the bottom of each trouser leg. Luckily for me, I have short legs as with a teeny tiny hem, they still ended up being full length. Phew. I also selected the tie up straps as I think the bows on the shoulder are sweet and also meant not having to bother with buttonholes.
I initially had one main reservation regarding this pattern, and that is the placement of the waist seam. I usually prefer a join at my natural waist and I was concerned with how a seam over my tummy would look. I was pleasantly surprised though. Due to the open sides of the bib, it accentuates the right part of the waist, and I didn't find that the seam in the front was too obvious, perhaps partly due to my fabric choice and also the looser fit in that area.
I am not 100% convinced with how it suits me in the back, as I felt like my bottom looked both big and small at the same time! This could perhaps be fixed with some small adjustments, but equally I think that in this fabric it isn't too problematic.
Overall, I am really pleased and definitely will be introducing more dungarees in to my wardrobe. Erin is super wearable and also a speedy sew - I completed them in one afternoon of relaxed sewing. The quality of the fabric is fantastic and combined with the richness of colour creates some very luxurious dungarees to swan around in this autumn.
Sarah is also wearing the Stanway t-shirt from the Cashmerette Ahead of the Curve book underneath her Erins. She has used the Metallic Stripe Cotton Jersey (purchased rather than gifted), which looks super cute with her finished Dungas!
Jenny Says:
"Is this not the most adorable outfit?! The Erin dungarees are so comfortable and cute, I'm sure Sarah will be reaching for them again and again this Autumn. Obviously extra points are awarded for using purple - my favourite colour!"
Inspired to make your own version? Here's what you'll need:
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| Fabric : 8 Wale Cotton Corduroy in Purple (also available in other colourways!) | Pattern : Tilly and the Buttons Erin Dungarees |
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| T-Shirt Fabric : Metallic Stripe Cotton Jersey |
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1 comment
Love this outfit on Sarah. The fabric’s are lovely – great colours