My New Cashmerette Patterns

I think I'm finally a *little* bit into the swing of things...

I saw Cashmerette patterns for the first time on Carolyn's blog a couple of weeks ago. One cool thing about being out of the loop for so long is that everything is new for me! Some things I've kept up with--I continued my Burda and Ottobre Woman subs for the majority of my hiatus, and checked in on Colette patterns and Hotpatterns regularly too.

Still, that's relatively little exposure to the sewing world. I'm sure there are many things I missed and many things that changed. New pattern companies that cater to curvier folks was a fun surprise though!

There are several nice patterns in the line, but here are the four I chose:

Upton Dress: (I also got the sleeve expansion which is shown on these models). 

Lenox Shirtdress: 

 Concord T-Shirt:

Turner Dress:

I'm interested in trying these--the expanded cup sizing (size 12-28 and cup C-H) is inspiring! I am completely unbiased too--other than Carolyn's lovely garment, I haven't had time to look these up online. I think I will just remain spoiler-free until the time comes to sew one up .

I'll keep you posted!

eshakti custom sizing & "fatshion"

I had learned about Eshakti a couple of years ago and then completely forgot about them until Kristine brought them up a few weeks back. They have so many cute retro styled garments, they're worth a look for inspiration if nothing else. Check out this gorgeous 40s-esque number in their sale pieces:

The company has a really interesting concept: All garments are available in every size 0-36W, AND you can order a custom fitted garment by entering a selection of measurements on the website (for an additional $7.95 per garment). I would pay an additional $7.95 for a custom fitted dress. Wouldn't you?

The prices are extremely reasonable too. So reasonable, that I had my suspicions and went on a google hunt for reviews. Most are positive. The one blog I found with a negative (and it wasn't so much fit as it was dress length) was a sewing blog...aren't we sewists the pickiest when it comes to garments? The comments on that article had interesting negative "reviews" too, so it's possible the negatives aren't getting talked about I suppose.

The funniest article though (by far!) was on XOJane by Leslie, titled: "How I shop for basically all my plus size clothes online." HIGHLY recommend a read, because A) I hooted, and B) there are some cool sites and tips in both the article and the comments.

I'm most definitely bookmarking Leslie for further reading. She's hilarious and down to earth and my kind of girl.

So how about all you sewing enthusiasts out there? Should I use the website for inspiration or give in to temptation and see if the customization really works?  More inspiration:

You see my problem now, don't you.

Love your thoughts people of the interwebs! <3 p="">
**NOTE: The dresses, I've discovered, are made in India. I'm still investigating the fair labor practices for the factory and will update if I find anything newsworthy. Yeah, I know. Most people don't care. I care.**