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A wonderful pattern to have in your collection, just as it is, but here’s two of my favorite ways to change it: |
The Summer Version
Very simple, but you may not have thought about doing this yet. Leave the collar off. Did I say simple, or what? Make it up using a lightweight rayon. Cool, comfortable, what I like to call “Jammy Wear”, because I feel like I’m in my favorite PJ’s all day!
The Jacket Option
Again, very easy, just involves a little “preplanning”. The lapels on the Samurai Shirt can flip back and make the most wonderful lapel jacket. The “v” is a bit low, so you might want to wear a coordinating shell top underneath. I like to make the undercollar and the facings in a contrast fabric. When worn closed (all buttoned up) no one sees the contrast fabric. But for a different look, flip back the lapels. A true wardrobe extender!
Another option is to make the trousers in the same contrast as the undercollar and facings. In order to get the most versatility from your garment, try making “fake” piping out of your facings.
Fake Piping - A trick often used by Lois Ericson to create the illusion of a piped edge without the hassles of making a separate piping. You know how you’re always trying to get that facing edge pressed “just right” so it doesn't show on the outside of the garment? FORGET IT! Let your facing roll just beyond the edge of the garment, kind of “peeking” out from the edge about an 1/8” of an inch. Stitch just in the seam (stitching in the ditch) this keeps it in place and forms a “piped” looking edge. When done in a strong contrast, it shows up wonderfully.
Now the Shirt you just made up with the contrast Trousers, when worn closed, has a subtle contrast piping edge to mirror the pants. When the lapels are flipped back, you have a “jacket” look with coordinating trousers.