The ever-popular simplicity retro pattern blouse. There were a fair amount of pieces - more than in many of my dresses - but it was still pretty easy to make. I skipped the facing and instead made bias out of the remaining fabric and used it to trim the arms, bottom, and neckline. I also used my first invisible zip.

Blouses, in general, seem to be almost as much work as a dress, but with less fabric and only half (or less) of an outfit as an outcome. I think this is why I've shied away from dresses until now -that, and the buttonhole thing. I do like this one and its fit and may make it again. I may also frankenstein the top half of the blouse on to some dress bottoms and make a dress.

I have 6 yards of of 54" black silk shantung with which to make summer suiting separates and am starting to contemplate the possibilities. The only thing I've decided on for sure is a straight pencil skirt, but I'm also tempted by a nice swishback pencil I made in wool for winter. Both of the jacket patterns I am considering are on the boxy side (one is double breasted, one has no closure and hangs open) and I feel weird about a boxier top with a swishback - not sure why. Feedback appreciated!