First Make of the New Year

Blog, Creatives Create, Style & Fashion, What I Sewed

Soooo HNY!! I’m not making any promises other than posting more 😬

That being said let’s just get right into this make.

I’m into the following things HEAVY:

• Animal Print

• Tiered girly dresses

• Lux minimalism

• Brocade

Hence making this dress!!!

It’s the Fibre Mood “Mira” Dress with a bit of a hack to the sleeves (lengthened and a slight ruching at the shoulder).

It took about 3 hours to make and it was definitely worth it.

The minute I started putting this together, without getting cocky I knew this wasn’t going to be a long make. And that’s the trick. Even though it’s not a lot of pieces, you still have to move with excellence. Altogether 6 pieces and the major work is ruching. But I’m sure a ruffler foot could shorten the time as well.

The only thing this little number lacks is pockets. But best believe the next one will have some. I’m not a huge mini dress girl BUT bayyyybeeeee there will be a few of these in my closet. And you can put leggings or tights or jeans on and boom 💥 a tunic.

Tho minimalist and lux, this dress has a LOT of volume. If you pick the right material, you can truly make a “do all“ dress.

Happy making!

Building a Ladder… My First Coat.

Blog, Creatives Create, Style & Fashion, What I Sewed

I’ve been in this love, schmoozie feeling about sewing lately. Before, it was all about how fast I could pump something out. Then the Rona hit and lockdown followed. But, unlike the perceived masses that blossomed in lockdown, I sort of just kept myself still. Assessing myself, my feelings, letting God speak… LISTENING…

And in the listening, He gave me love back. Not by way of a bae, but in the restoration of loving the work of sewing. I wasn’t consumed with 3 hour sew projects – and no shade because a quick shirt or skirt … well there is always room for that. But shopping my stash and taking my time to create things that I KNEW I would love (yes that means I legit did muslin mock ups to correct and perfect before actually using the fabric of choice) was an experience I hadn’t felt in some time. When the world was forced to slow down, so was I.

Me trying to sew… Rocco ready for fetch.

Now the truth is…I could’ve made this is in a day, but that would’ve drained me of loving the process and filled me with competition against myself.

So I went piece by piece. First and foremost… get you some quilted denim. The beauty of this make was that because it was quilted it required absolutely no interface. I used bias tape to bind my seam allowances instead of surging them. It looked cleaner and prettier against the quilted fabric.

I made two deep pockets that could hold my keys, phone, wallet and earbuds in one pocket, and my dog leash in the other… all without looking like I’m trying to shoplift a whole store 🤣. Pockets are a thing for me but also sleek placement as well. Though I’m not running the streets, I take Rocco for long walks i hate having to walk with a purse. I kept “we both have to benefit” in mind when constructing this coat.

The final result was perfect 👌🏽. My keys and wallet are in my pocket… guess which one!?

This jacket/ coat passes the crisp Ohio morning test. And raglan sleeves are so much more forgiving on broad shoulders!

I went with three buttons on the breast area to be able to access my pant pockets with ease. When you make something the beauty is you can make it to suit YOUR needs.

All and all this coat was a sweet make that continues to remind me that it’s okay to slow down and do something intentionally and with purpose. This coat is a pattern hack from a raglan jacket pattern that I own!

Second Time Around – The Little Dress that Could

Blog, Creatives Create, Style & Fashion, What I Sewed

So let me start off by saying I’m OBSESSED with Cynthia Rowley. I do NOT have CR money but her simplistic cuts, luxurious fabrics, her keen sense of when to puff or ruff(le)… my eye is always drawn to her looks. It’s something about the way she makes bolds look like neutrals and everyday wear. I’m sold. But like i said, she is COMPLETELY out of my price range. When i saw this dress i was sick!

It’s sooooooo cute and quirky. But irl I knew I’d need it a bit longer cuz… booty; so then it became me on a hunt for a similar pattern. Simplicity pattern S8909 came through like a trooper.

Y’all… dress A is practically the Cynthia Rowley dress sans the ruffled hem. AND ITS RAGLAN SLEEVE AND I LOVE A RAGLAN SLEEVE. So in my mind I was like BET! So I had some “tester” fabric in my stash I was willing to make this dress with.

😐😐😐😐😐😐😐😐😐😐😐😐😐😐😐😐😐

So…

A few things…

Prints are tricky. In theory they work on paper and swatch and coquis but irl WHOLE OTHER BEAST

I’m not a huge pastel girl so this was overwhelming

Construction was simple enough

If you’re focused; this dress can be completed and finished in 5 hours

And then this happened. Sizing for your shape is real and this is why pattern grading is clutch. The first run this was all bulk and the hem was entirely too long. This was the antithesis of a vibe and extremely discouraging BUT you gotta learn from your mistakes and often try again. So that’s what I did.

I shortened the hem AND bottom ruffle.
I went for a more easy bold pattern and made sure it was something I’d be more inclined to wear.
Created darts in the back for a more complimenting silhouette

This was it! the second try was a hit.

Though different; you can definitely see the influence and I love that!

What are your thoughts? Would you sew 🧵 this? Would you use a bold pattern or keep it simple?

I hope you enjoyed! Happy sewing!!!

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Reppin Sets

Lifestyle, Style & Fashion

I LOVE sets. Luuuuuuuhdem. They are easy wears they extend your closet. Who doesn’t love a matching set? It’s bare minimum 3 outfits in 2 pieces.

Then add neoprene into the mix and we fancy fancy!

So this set was a super quick sew that I made for resurrection Sunday and to this day, have worn the top again.

This was my first delve into neoprene fabric. When I tell you gorgeous… GORGEOUS! It was a mixture between this brushed faux suede and metallic that PHOTOGRAPHS beautifully

Let’s note a few things about this fabric

I got it at Joann’s Fabric it was 27.99 a yard with 40% + addtl 20% off coupon

I bought 4.5 yards so technically not on sale fabric alone is over $100 😱

I didn’t use it all “whew”

This neoprene is two way stretch so you have to mind that when cutting out your fabric

Neoprene is HOT AS HELL. So there’s that!

This whole thing was a simple sew (1 day) . A tube pencil skirt with pleated peplum and I hand drafted the sweatshirt top from a top I own – inspo blog on that in the next two weeks- and I LOVE IT.

If you aren’t into print; a simple color(s)will work with this also.

I actually plan on making more of these and will have pricing for sets available soon. I will say this style is flattering on most bodies because it really helped create a little shape where I lack. I’m not curvy (hourglass)but a pencil skirt and peplum bottom create a curve illusion.

Also sweatshirt tops are forgiving to the tummy so eat and be cute still!

I’d also like to note that I didn’t have to edit these pictures to bring out the detail of the fabric. That’s just really how crispy and beautiful this fabric is.

Its Me Made May!

Get into it!!!

The Jane Re-Worked

Style & Fashion

“Make a t-shirt they say… it’ll be fun they say…”

It was.

This Saturday I had the “pleasure” of this quick sew. The quotes are because I managed to complete this even after two + GRUESOME hours of teaching dance WITH a crazy earache that I found out was a middle ear infection after spending hours at a minute clinic.

Wild. But it goes to show how quick this could be if you’re fully able bodied.

So the deets:

This is the Jane Pattern from Seamwork worked in a large. I could’ve fit a medium I’m sure but I really like loose fitting tees.

I reworked the construction of this after making one per their instructions and feeling highly “meh” about it.

Instead of sewing (I actually used my serger for this project) the sleeve to the bodice in a continuous motion; I opted to attach the sleeves by using the inserting method. It falls better IMO.

Collar / crew neck construction

So I saw the logic in how and why they make their collar look like a long flag that you cut on the fold but I like the “formula” way better because I personally think it lays better. But let’s be honest. If you’re using a serger it’s gonna lay just fine.

This knit fabric was incredibly tricky, I still ended up taking about 6/8 of an inch off of each side. I’m going to take that L and say it was me and not the pattern tho. But even with that trim and the 1/2 inch seam allowance you use with serging it, it’s still quite blousy so there’s that.

Now my bother did say the following “Jaikeyl; don’t go making mad white tees, Hanes already cornered the market” and I DO agree. BUT if you see a cute knit or cotton print that you can’t resist OR you always wished your tee sleeves went to your elbow *cough cough easy pattern hack* this is for sure something to keep in your sewist arsenal.

Gentlemen Prefer Brunettes – Adventures in Sewing

Blog, Style & Fashion

I love being inspired by the size and style of the women in the 50’s (more realistic, less cosmetically altered) and the artistry of couture from the 1930’s – 1950’s.

Beauty was the whole package and not just a “shape”. It was what the woman wore and how she carried herself. That was my inspiration for this dress.

I’m not exceptionally small, I’m not curvy at all; but as Lisa Stansfield belted “I’m all woman” and 💯 % luxurious.

My inspiration came from this burdastyle pattern.

I’m not a fan of Starburst darting, especially darting like this that pulls to the middle. I have a straight figure and regular sized bust so this would create no real accentuating of anything. At best, this would only highlight my pooch ¯\_(ツ)_/¯

But the simplicity of the cut and the godet train drew me in and I said “self… you can make something like this!” So I pulled out my basic bodice and straight skirt slopers and got to work .

The result was this super dope delicate mermaid flare at the bottom and a wild dope train.

This cut (mermaid/ fit & flare) created curves where non exist! Lol and the obi belt that i made to “snatch” my waist; I ended up using as a shawl because I’m really going to learn to appreciate my shape this year!

The godet train gave me my full, entire, whole life.

This fabric was my favorite. I’d been holding this for over a year waiting for the perfect reason to bust this out and use it. It was very Gatsby – Art Deco. Rich gold, pale gold & black – and the design of the fabric was just aesthetically pleasing to me, it stood out, it was rich looking but not gaudy.

It made me feel VERY luxurious. And sometimes a lady just needs to feel that old Hollywood luxury (minus sexism and bigotry)

I ended up having a BLAST at our church banquet and the dressed proved that I could eat AND dance in it. It was a great night and a great (Gatsby of a) dress!

Dress: “The Gatsby” – The Style Cooperative – price upon request

Coat – H&M – gifted but you can get something similar here

Accessories – cuff – gifted

What inspires you?

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How To Go Overboard with Florals

Blog, Style & Fashion

Don’t you just hate when you hate something so much you end up loving it? Well… maybe not hate it, but when the industry is inundated with it… you just want to sort of fall back from it?

That’s lowkey how I felt about florals; until I went through my closet to minimize my wardrobe, and realized I’ve had a lifelong love affair with florals.

Just seeing people clamor over florals made me want to do something different. My only option? Don’t play it safe.

The key to going overboard is uniformity. The blouse and trousers are both H&M. Buying both patterns at the same shop takes the guess work out of wondering will it match. Retail stores profit on making shopping easier so prints are often made to compliment one another. In this case, the exact same print.

This is a great play on a “traditional” black & white look. It’s as if your outfit is almost the accessory… almost…

The shoes were NOTHING like the pattern of the blouse & trousers, but it just worked. The color palette was slightly sharper, defined, and brighter. Not to mention the Oriental floral design of the bootie added compliment and contrast to the Victorian floral design of the outfit.

Booties were from Justfab and I got them during that insane Black Friday/ cyber Monday/ they havin’ sales all dag on month deal.

When I put this outfit together it just felt “right”. On my ever evolving style journey it’s comforting to know that simplicity and grandeur still have their place. And there are still fun ways to pull off bold looks without looking insane… at least in my opinion 😏.

How are you making it through the floral trend? Comment below!! Per usual, all pieces were (WELL) under $50!

Spend wisely!

Almost 40

Lifestyle, Uncategorized

On Wednesday I’ll be the big 4-OH. My boss poignantly stated that this was the last week of my thirties and asked how I felt… I felt okay until it was put that way! But seriously. This is just a few notes to encourage those leaving one decade for the next and wondering if they missed their “marks”

I LOOK GREAT

I know it sounds vain, but with God’s grace and some serious self care, I honestly look better leaving my 30’s than I did entering them. The take away? Its never too late to make lasting changes that affect you for the better. To date I have kept off the 20 lbs that I lost and i’m just striving to keep a healthy balance and yes, I still have dreams of a six pack ;-).

I AM WALKING OUT MY DREAM… JUST NOW

Have the world tell you, I’m too old to pursue a career in fashion; and even more so as a designer. I won’t lie; I’ve been on this journey since my 20’s and allowed life and fear to dissuade me from really giving this thing a go. But right now, on the brink of 40 I’ve never felt more ready. I truly feel a resolve about the skin I am in and the steps I am making. My clothing line is authentically me and I needed this time to realize that. Prayerfully next year you will see The Style Co-op’s debut resort-wear line and the timing couldn’t be better. The take away? Do it. Afraid, bold, right now, later… The only thing you’ll regret is the regret from not moving.

I AM STILL SINGLE AND CHILDLESS

LOL Job 3:25 says: “For the thing I feared has overtaken me, and what I dreaded has happened to me.” I laugh because this is me. I kept thinking God would “ram in a bush” me. SURELY God has at least a bae for Jai at 40. LOL nope. Nah. Nada. Nothing. The thing I feared the most. No man, no hint of marriage, no children… and I’m pretty much 40. It’s the worst and best thing to happen to me. The worst because, I mean I want to be in a healthy, happy, thriving relationship filled with purpose and I’m not. The best because 1) It didn’t happen and it not happening didn’t kill me 2) I’ve stopped holding my breath. 3) We don’t always get what we want and this is a great example of “losing” gracefully. aka not acting out or forcing something just to say I have. 4) I. DIDN’T. LOSE. The take away? Points 1 & 2.

ORDER COMETH

Listen. I saved the best for last! I’ve always felt like I was juggling life. That in order to take care of one thing, I had to lay another down. Also a reason that delayed me from fully chasing my dreams. Then one day this year I was like “self…How can you want more in life when you can’t handle what you have now?”

My mission then became to master the “little” that I have. Create routine and habit and ORDER. It’s a lie to think that in order to be a free spirit, your life has to be chaotic. I’ve never felt freer and its due to creating order and structure. Days no longer slip away into weeks and months of would’ve, could’ve, should’ve. Now, if this “man” ever comes along… I know I won’t put my life on hold to tend to him. When the time is right I’ll actually be able to have a healthy relationship. But for now, I enjoy the fact that my house isn’t a whirlwind of fabric, patterns, Netflix and lost time.

THE TAKE AWAY

Things not happening in the time that you want them to happen doesn’t always mean that you missed the mark; It just means it didn’t happen. Focus on what did happen. Focus on the steps (of the things you can control) that you have made. And for the things you cant control… find the blessing in the pause.

Life is STILL good.

God is STILL good.

40 is STILL coming.

Happy Birthday to me.

And if you want…. cash app me $40 for 40

Cash app: $Jaikeyl

Jumpers that work for Summer and Fall

Blog, Style & Fashion

Every day should be brunch attire. Comfy, chic, flattering. I told my friend “I’m going for part PJ’s, part beast in these streets.” And as I continue to curate my line to bring you some great style choices this jumper has now been added to the roster.

“Jump Man” Jumper

I made this jumpsuit to be a bright piece to be worn from summer into fall. This particular print is a dope very nostalgic very 90’s African print that I picked up from 116th in Harlem.

The rolled hem, kimono sleeve, and wrap front make this a style ease option for the busty and non busty alike.

Spot the donut. #jdilla

This ain’t ya mothers jumper either. This is definitely backside friendly without being too tight or too loose. Baby Bear.

Pair with a denim jacket and loafers in the fall, or a trench and combat boots for a more “breakfast club” vibe.

How would you rock this? What pattern would you want to see? Want to be first on the list of this release?! As always: thefashionunder50@gmail.com

Stay dope! Support your local artists! Let’s build.

THE STYLE CO-OP

Community is everything. Let's build.

the style co-op

First Make of the New Year

Building a Ladder… My First Coat.

Second Time Around – The Little Dress that Could

Reppin Sets

The Jane Re-Worked

Gentlemen Prefer Brunettes – Adventures in Sewing

How To Go Overboard with Florals

Almost 40

Jumpers that work for Summer and Fall