Gemma’s Pineapple Co-ord Set
Junes box was super special for me. Not only did I have the opportunity to create a limited edition screen-print to go inside, but the fabric was the perfect match to sew something I’ve wanted to make for a long time – a matching co-ord set!
Summer is when matching suit-style sets come into their own, and I’ve seen several popping up in various high street stores. Being able to take inspiration and create my own is one of the great things about being a dressmaker, and this fabric is once again right up my street! What makes you think of summer vibes more than pineapples?? I’m in love with the print, it’s so bright and eye catching. As it’s a cotton poplin you have so many options of things to make with it, and one thing even better is that its wide width, so great for getting more out of the fabric!
On to planning my set. My favourite look I’ve seen for summer consists of a relaxed suit style jacket paired with shorts. Making shorts can be tricky if you want to get fit right, however I was looking for something comfortable and simple, so I settled on the Spring Shorts from Peppermint Magazine. This is a free pattern drafted for them by Pattern Runway, and looked to be a stylish and suitable-for-any-occasion kind of shorts. It has a paper bag waist that is also elasticated and has the option to add a drawstring, as well as front side pockets (essential of course!)
For the jacket I used a Mimi G (of course!) for Simplicity pattern, number 8558, which is a great pattern pack that has several different garments included. I loved the look of the loose fit, not too rigid or structured, so was perfect for my idea of casual and comfy. As it comes with a shorts pattern itself, I knew it would work well together.
Construction wise it was a lot less complicated than I anticipated, and delivers maximum impact! I’m so happy with how it has turned out, and think it is on the right side of Club Tropicana summer vibes!
Let’s start with the shorts. As a free pattern it isn’t as size inclusive as it could be, with 5 sizes ranging from an 8-16. I made the size 16, and was just the right fit, so anyone above a UK 16 would have to take that into consideration. However the instructions are really clear and I had these sewn up in a couple of hours, so an ideal quick make. They have a good leg length and because you use elastic at the waist it really helps to fit them how you feel comfortable. As they can be made in a variety of fabrics such as cotton or linen, i think they are perfect wardrobe staples!
Onto the jacket, and again, a much simpler make than I was expecting! Construction wise it’s a great make that’s not too complicated – the collar is created with an upper and under collar, with the front lapels created from the facing, so not as technical as some collars can be. It has a panelled front, with two deep pockets perfect for storing essentials. I have to admit – after making the shorts I didn’t quite have enough fabric left over to add the sleeves, however it has a small sleeve on the front pieces, so it actually looks like it’s meant to be short sleeved, and I liked that! I imagine you could shorten this into a more cropped jacket version, and might even try myself at some point.
Like the shorts, I had this sewn up in an afternoon, and I love it! It’s the right mix of smart yet casual, and again, I can see this made up in different types of fabrics and looking fabulous. Paired together I’m so happy with my matching set, and cannot wait to be able to get a cocktail to happily match my outfit!