Sewing Through the Decades Challenge

I've been in a little bit of a sewing rut lately, with indecision and too many options clouding my creativity. I've been knocked down with a cold too so I've been feeling a little lethargic and much more inclined to curl up in bed with a Jane Austen flick than lug out the fabric and start stitching.

In saying that, I have spent a lot of happy time catching up on my blog world reading and have emerged very, very excited. I have plans atop plans, the first and foremost of which is "Sewing through the Decades".

Debi from My Happy Sewing Place has decided to sew her way through the decades starting in the 1930's. She will mainly be focusing on creating separates and is using this challenge as a way of venturing out of her usual 40's styled clothing and play with different looks.

This challenge appeals to me very much. I tend to sew mostly 50's inspired garments and would love to branch out. I've been quite interested in the late 30's - early 40's recently and am hoping to start there. This also gives me the opportunity to start on my winter wardrobe (I'm aiming to sew most of, to all of it)
I have never made a coat, a blouse or a "true" pair of trousers so this really will be a challenge!

As is custom, with any new idea I must turn to etsy for inspiration. I've found a stack of vintage patterns that I can't wait to get my hands on and some fabric which will be perfect for my winter look.

But before I get ahead of myself, I must finish the project that I am currently working on - The 1930's playsuit that I posted here.
I'm using a fine check black/white houndstooth that I picked up at an Op Shop. I am planning on decorating the collar lapels in black rick rack and adding some cherry red buttons to the back.

If all goes well I should have it up by the end of the week ("If" being the operative word here).

You may have also noticed that I never posted a picture of the nightgown I made for my Mom's birthday. It turned out quite pretty, I spent a lot of time finishing it with lace edges and french seams. I left the side seams un-finished, along with the hem so I could alter if if need be - In the end this wasn't enough. I made it WAY to small and she couldn't get it over her head. I asked if I could post a picture of her stuck in it, but she didn't like that idea very much. I wonder why?