Have you ever had something you wanted to do so badly that once the chance came around, your expectations were so high, you were nearly frozen with fear of failing or second guessing everything? That’s me. You see, my favorite wardrobe item is J.Crew’s Perfect Shirt, the most well made, perfectly fitting, brilliantly constructed shirt I’ve ever...
I like to have a plan when I make. I like to set realistic goals, and ideally, I like to cut and use my fabric before it ever reaches the shelf. Of course, that sort of goes out the window when I way overestimate my time management abilities and forget to account for the unexpected...
A few weeks ago the ladies at Alice Caroline reached out to see if I’d like to make something with their brand new, exclusive range of fabrics from Liberty. I said yes straight away, and stalked the mailbox with anticipation. When they arrived I set out to plan my project. I remembered being particularly drawn...
Have you ever purchased a piece of fabric for a special project only to have it sit on a shelf waiting for when you are in the right mindset, the perfect size, or just done with everything else? Well I purchased one of my all time favorite Liberty prints, Anna’s Garden, in fleece from DuckaDilly...
A few weeks ago while I was in the midst of packing, I felt the urge to use up some fabric and make Layla some new dresses. These urges seem to happen when I should be doing something responsible. Ha! It was perfectly justified though, because Layla is seriously lacking dresses and I didn’t want...
Welcome to Olivia Jane Handcrafted! I'm Meredith and this is my creative journal. Here you'll find loads of inspiration for a handmade wardrobe, home decor, bags, and quilts. I even have plenty of projects and tutorials to get you started or help you along the way.
I was so excited by your post I just had to write :) I’ve been on a blouse making MISSION for the past 3 months in my search for the perfect shirt but I do want to make it! I’ve explored several patterns – a couple of which are outstanding and have been a great success – one is the Cashmerette Harrison (which would likely be too big for you since it starts at a 12) and the one I’m working on now is the Fitted Blouse by the Cupful by J. Stern designs. I have another on order from Vogue in their Comfort Fit category that also looks really good. Your process and relentless search to duplicate your favourite was so inspiring! I’m in awe :) Congratulations on your success. You have a pattern now that you can make over and over in all your favourite fabrics…you might want to make one up in dupioni silk (I did and love it!) :)
Well wasn’t that person who told you to buy one and deconstruct it simply brilliant. Your blouses are truly perfect and it’s delightful to read how excited you are! It inspires me to return to making clothes.
These both look amazing, Meredith! I’m glad you were able to recreate your favorite shirt. I also have the Granville pattern but I haven’t made it yet. I’m concerned about the sleeves not fitting me properly. I just got the new Classic shirt pattern from Liesl + Co and I’m curious to try that one. I haven’t ever worn this J Crew shirt but I sort of want to go try one on and see how I like it. It looks like a great style!
What a great accomplishment! I know what it’s like to be paralyzed by fear of… messing up. Good job find a solution, and now have a classic piece that will last a long time. Please bring to VT :) xo
You have outdone yourself! These shirts are absolutely breathtaking on you! As someone who sews, I marvel at the construction even more!
Wow, I’m so impressed your shirts are “perfect”! If you don’t mind, what size is the pattern you made? I want to learn to sew and haven’t purchased a sewing machine yet. My dream is to make my own shirts out of the Liberty of London fabric. I did take a class last year and made an apron but the teacher closed her business. I’ve been looking at patterns and haven’t found the “one” yet. You’ve inspired to get started! Maybe, I should start with a sleeveless, collarless top first.
I used a size zero and made my pattern from disassembling the Perfect Shirt. While shirts aren’t terribly difficult to put together, I would definitely recommend getting your feet wet with some other garments just to get the order down and also to practice differently techniques. I’d be happy to give you some recommendations of well written patterns if you are interested.
Thanks, Meredith, I would appreciate any pattern recommendations.
Hi Julie!! I’m so sorry for my late reply. We just moved this past week and haven’t quite settled in. Anyway, my favorite patterns to learn from are actually Oliver + S kids patterns. If you have any children in your life, the skills you would learn from those are the very best and completely invaluable. Liesl Gibson of Liesl and Co has released a women’s shirt that is classic and has all the details you would expect from a high end store bought shirt. She also has versions for men and kids which I purchased this week and am looking forward to making. I have never been disappointed by one of her patterns, and I always make them multiple times. Deer and Doe is also a great company. I love their Bruyere top which I have also lengthened to a dress. It’s straightforward and very pretty. Another staple pattern for me is the Michelle, My Belle Dress from the book Liberty Love (which is packed with great projects!) I have about ten of them. I also love the Biscayne Blouse from Hey June. It’s simple and polished, and it gets quite a lot of wear. My latest obsession is the La Parisienne en Ete from Louis Antionette (bought from Jones and Vandermeer). I have made the skirt multiple times and it is hands down my favorite skirt pattern.
I know I’ve made lots more. If you would like any more recommendations just let me know and I’ll be happy to help. I’ll try to be more prompt in answering you in the future! I’m so sorry for the delay.