Aqua Linen Blouse

I made this week's featured garment a few years ago when I ended up with a surplus of aqua linen that I had ordered from Fashion Fabrics Club in pursuit of the perfect fabric for my baby's nursery.  Originally thinking I would use it for curtains, I ordered a very large amount.  In the end it became liners for various baskets in the room, and I was left with a lot of fabric for another purpose.

The pattern for this top was created with Pattern Master Boutique pattern drafting software by Wild Ginger.  The design features include a center front button closure, shoulder princess seaming, curved hemline and collar with stand.  I followed directions written by Belinda Davies for creating a collared v-neckline, a style that was very popular several years ago. 

Before cutting the body of the garment, I created pintucks in the linen fabric and then cut the center front princess panels from that fabric.  The top is lined with a lightweight cotton voile, making it cool and comfortable to wear in the summer.  I finished the look with square shell buttons.

I really love this little blouse because it is so quintessentially ME.  I love wearing and working with linen and am particularly fond of soft, feminine shades like this aqua.  The pintucked details harken to my love of heirloom sewing and add (I think) just the right touch of uniqueness while maintaining the traditional look that I like.  The fit is just right, and I feel pretty wearing it.  Which garments in your closet are truly YOU?