The moment I saw the George and Ginger Selfie Shirt pattern I knew I had to make one. It is a super stylish top with a deep v front, puff sleeve detail, and 3 front closure options that take the level of sexy up a notch each time. While I know I want this as a top for a date night (if they are ever allowed to happen again,) I decided to create a hack for the selfie shirt and make my own nightie for the time being. Here is how I made this look.
Modifications to the Pattern
-I began by selecting a fabric that would be soft to wear and not necessarily a pattern recommendation. Since I knew it was for a sleeveless nightgown and not the intended look of the top, I chose something less structured. This stretch eyelet that I bought from Mily Mae Fabrics last year was perfect. Although I wore a slip in the photos, only the top is lined, therefore the skirt portion is a bit more see-through.
-Next I cut out only the bodice and waistband according to the pattern. I made sure to take 1/2 inch off the length for my smaller cup size as the pattern recommends. After, I cut a second bodice set from lining fabric. I chose a lightweight ponte from my stash. Finally, I lengthened the skirt portion of the skirt to approximately 17 inches.
Once I had my pieces it was time to get sewing.
Sewing Steps for the Nightie
- Sew your bodice together first by completing the pleats for both your main and lining fabric. Then sew together the shoulder seams on both your lining and main pieces.
- Next, lay your bodices together with right sides facing and stitch all the way around the neckline. Press your seam allowance to the lining side and place a piece of elastic (cut to the size on the pattern) on top of the pressed seam. Stitch the elastic onto the seam allowance using a stretch elastic stitch.
- Next, put your bodices back together, right sides facing, and sew around the armscye for each arm. Turn the bodice right side out and press.
- Then, working with one arm/side seam at a time, open out the side seam on the front, separating the lining and main fabric. Do the same thing for the back piece on that same arm.
- Match main fabric to main fabric and lining to lining and pin, matching seams. Stitch using a basting stitch, repeat for the other side, and then try your top on. (You will have to hold the front closed to get a feel for fit, but I ended up taking the side seam in by about an inch to get the right fit.)
- Once you are happy with the fit, stitch your side seams and trim down your seam allowance if necessary.
- Attach your finished bodice to your waistband and skirt according to the pattern.
- The final touch is the cute lingerie bow. I used this ribbon and created a short tutorial on how to create one for yourself.
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I just love that little feminine touch and how polished it makes the whole look feel. And the best part, it is super easy to make. That speaks volumes as I struggle tremendously with tying bows – I promise you can easily make this little touch in a few minutes. Click over and see how quick it is.
The nightie turned out great and I can’t wait to make that date night top. Make sure to check back to see how the selfie shirt sews up as an evening look, or better yet, sign up below and you will get an email any time a new post hits the blog. Thanks for reading.
Until next time,
Happy Sewing