But it’s just as easy to throw on something that isn’t a t-shirt. You just have to find things that work with your life like no-fuss fabrics that are cute and comfortable paired with patterns that allow you to move, pick up, bend over, and get dirty. So I’m mixing things up with my wardrobe. It’s time for functional and cute so I feel confident and ready for all the things my day throws at me.
So I started with Art Gallery Fabric for several reasons.
And then there were the patterns. I used the Sugar Pop Top by Sew Caroline and the Julia Cardigan from Mouse House Creations to create a duo that works together and separate. I made the small in both patterns, but next time I’ll make a medium in the Sugar Pop Top for more room across the shoulders.
The Sugar Pop top is made from the Everblooming Fig Voile in the Cultivate collection by Bonnie Christine. It’s soft, fluid, and feminine. I love the cap sleeve that makes it perfect for summer days and then I can add a layer for the cooler evenings.
I also love the sweet collar and the hi-low hem that provides a little more coverage when bending over. It’s a simple top, but with no closures it’s as easy to throw on as a t-shirt.
I made the Julia Cardigan from the Row by Row Deep knit in the same collection. The cream, tan, and brown stripes make this a great layering piece with lots of versatility. I can wear it with the Sugar Pop Top, with a tank, or any solid colored tee for a more put-together look. And I’ll be able to wear it all through fall and winter too.
I wear a lot of cardigans, and this is already a serious favorite. I really can’t emphasize enough how much I love this knit. It’s dreamy.
So whether I’m at the park with my kids, running an errand, or just around the house, I’m ready to look and feel a little better with these fun wardrobe staples!
Are you ready to banish the mom uniform? What pieces would you like to add to your wardrobe?
*I received fabric from Art Gallery Fabrics, but I couldn’t recommend them more.
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These are both patterns I own. I haven't made the Sugar pop top up yet because I didn't know how the sleeve coverage would be. I hate spending time on something and then having to wear an undershirt under it. Especially in summertime when I am already so hot!
I made the Julia once and didn't love it. I did it in the short sleeve option and I think that is why. But can I ask what size you made? Do you feel it is pretty true to size? Any changes for next time?
Thanks for sharing your review. And here's to banishing the typical mom uniform!
Hi Kristie, these are great questions, and I am so with you on the sleeve issue and not wanting to wear an undershirt during the summer. I've already cut another Sugar Pop Top and I went up a size (from a small to a medium) for a little more room across the shoulders and a little more length on the sleeve. And I've never done the short sleeve Julia but I LOVE the 3/4 sleeve (I made a small). I look better when the armscye seams hit on my shoulder rather than dropped off, so I wanted short sleeves I'd cut like I was doing the 3/4 or long sleeve versions and just shorten the sleeve to where I wanted it. Hope that helps!
Lovely!!! I still need to sew up a Julia Cardigan. I have a hard time investing in knots, which I know is shocking as a sewing blogger. I should just do it! I think I am waiting around for a coverstitch machine to appear in my room first. My machine has been eating knits lately. Anyway, on the mom uniform: 2 summers ago, we had an internship in Texas, so when I was packing my small amount of clothes, I only grabbed my nicer tops and blouses. I have never felt better! Since then, I have only purchased two t shirts, everything else must be nicer! I just feel more grown up and more beautiful. I love how the Sugar Pop Top has the collar and can be made with nice comfy fabrics. I do use a different sleeve pattern though!
Such a good idea. I went through my clothes and got rid of a lot but I probably need to be a little more harsh with my t-shirts. Have you used Art Gallery knits before? They're totally worth it. And I almost asked you about the sleeves before I made it. What sleeve pattern did you use?
Ohhhh Lisa, I wish I had the time to sew like you as everything you make it so darn adorable! It looks so comfy and you are right, every once & awhile it's nice to change out of the old t-shirts! ;) btw - cute hair style ;)
Thank you, Laura. And I wish I could letter like you. We all have our own talents, and it's so fun that we get to share them with each other. Hugs!
You're going to be one stylishly dressed mom in your new town :)
That's the plan...I have to make friends somehow. ;)
Love this Lisa! You always look so stylish to me, even in just a jeans and tee. I definitely feel less "mommyish" when I put on something that makes me feel good though! I need to do it more often :)
What a sweet thing to say. I definitely get more dressed up when I take pictures. :) Isn't is crazy how much better you feel when you're more dressed up?