Out There Having Fun, In The Warm California Sun

I had this super fun pattern in my collection! It looks like a vintage Ken doll to me, well, Ken meets the Beach Boys! Summer is in full swing and we have plenty of hot days still ahead. David just so happened to be going to Southern California on vacation, so it was time to skip around in my pattern drawer, and start sewing!

I didn’t have enough of any one fabric to meet the yardage needs for this pattern, that also looked vintage. But of course, I had an idea! Aunt Tamy had bought me lots of fabric when Grandma’s favorite fabric store was going out of business. Since the store is two hours away from me, but close to Aunt Tamy, she jumped right over and stocked up for me. She had bought these two complimenting plaids. I figured I could mix and match them to make this two piece bathing suit ensemble. Have I mentioned that I love this pattern?

I first cut out and sewed together the shorts. I figured they would go together quickly, then I could concentrate on the shirt, which would be a little more work. I chose the darker fabric for the shorts.

I was right, they were going together quickly.

Until…..This pattern called for three casings for the elastic, and three separate pieces of elastic to be run through each one. This slowed me down, but wasn’t too bad. I attached a safety pin to the end of the elastic, and ran it through the waistband.

It was time to cut out the shirt. I used the lighter fabric, and had to place my pieces just right to make the most of my fabric.

I used the scraps of the darker fabric for contrast pieces on the shirt.

I stay stitched the top of the shirt. When I first started sewing I thought this step seemed unnecessary, but when you have a curve in the fabric, it helps to keep the fabric from stretching.

Attaching the sleeves to the front.

Lining up the pocket and pinning it in place. I was loving the look of the contrasting, yet coordinating fabric.

Sewing on the shirt facing, which was also the darker color for added contrast.

Making the button holes. This step always makes me nervous. If the machine messes up now, or if I mess up now, the whole thing could be ruined.

I’m also always fascinated by the technology of the button hole attachment. You place the button that you are going to use in the back of the buttonhole foot, and it magically knows how big to make the buttonhole.

Off my handsome son and his new swimwear outfit went for a week of fun in the sun in beautiful Southern California!

The outfit turned out exactly like I pictured it! The top and bottoms look great together!

Lounging poolside and enjoying a good book.

But that’s not just any book, that’s “Ten”, a book that David wrote and self published! Here’s the link in case you want to own your own copy of David’s book, and you can say you knew him when!

https://www.lulu.com/shop/david-burns/ten/hardcover/product-9j7rr6.html?q=ten+by+David+Burns&page=1&pageSize=4

Looks like he’s at a resort, but no, he’s at Elizabeth’s apartment complex, taking advantage of her amenities. I am a huge fan of taking advantage of your resources and making the most of them. From fabric, to a vacation with family, make the most of what you have!

Sight seeing at the Seal Beach Municipal Pier.

My vote for best dressed on the pier!

Enjoying scenic California!

Cooling off or being the coolest?

Being the coolest!

Hanging out by the lifeguard shack, putting out the vibe.

Admiring the yachts in Long Beach.

I was grateful to Aunt Tamy for buying this vintage looking fabric for my stash. It worked out perfectly, and looks great as a swim ensemble.

David was happy to have a vintage swim outfit, which worked perfect on his vacation. He also has a pool at his apartment at college, so he will put his outfit to good use!

Dressing in styles that are a reflection of your personality make you feel confident. Some styles are hard to find though. I’m glad I could make this outfit for David. He’s an old soul, and vintage styles look great on him!

As for me, onto the next!