Wow, that was an unintended blog break!  Work has become absolutely insane over the past few weeks and I am working much more than usual.  Just haven’t had the energy to blog.

But I do want to say thanks to everyone who has left me comments lately, particularly on my “musings” post a couple back.  I have been musing further on your responses and love that you make me think.  There will be more discussion on this ahead, I’m sure!

But in the meantime, I’ll show you my Style Arc Cara top.

Tops and dresses with shoulder/arm interest are everywhere at the moment. Cut out shoulders, off the shoulder, open sleeves – all those things that show off some shoulder and/or arm. So I thought I’d give it a whirl – why not!  Aren’t clothes meant to be fun?

This was really a muslin. I wasn’t expecting to actually LIKE it on me. But I do! The fabric is a rayon woven from Darn Cheap Fabrics – the scraps left over from another project. Just my colours! The next dilemma was how to style this top. I sewed size 12, and it’s a rather cropped length, especially considering that I am only 158cm tall and am short waisted. But I think that it needs to be on the short side in order to balance out the volume.

I rather like it with my Style Arc Ethel linen trousers. I think that it needs high waisted pants or skirts if you are planning to avoid showing your midriff. I am always planning to avoid showing my midriff! It passed the teen test – as soon as she saw it on me Clare said that she wanted a version of my outfit in her size! Now that’s a compliment!

I probably need to pull the elastic in the back of this top a little tighter – the flat front band isn’t sitting flat against my body. However, it’s very comfortable to wear. The only downside is that it requires a strapless bra (or going without – not an option I feel comfortable with) and they are never my favourite things.

From the Style Arc website: CARA TOP: This on-trend top gives a gorgeous look with its flattering, gathered, off the shoulder neckline with a floaty raglan sleeve.  The elastic at the back neck band keeps the shoulder line in shape.  Wear it with jeans or dress it up with a fabulous print to wear to a special occasion. FABRIC SUGGESTION: Silk, Crepe, Cotton, Broderie Anglaise.

Now Mum, I know that strapless/off the shoulder has never been your scene. However, I rather like it, and I’m really glad that I gave it a go. In fact, I now have plans to sew the Hot Patterns Urban Gypsy Blouse and the Style Arc Marilyn dress pattern is in the mail to me as I type.   I’ve just sewn Clare a Cold Shoulder top, and am considering one for myself. And yes, I’ve also got a Cara top cut out in teensy size for Clare….

I’m jumping on this trend before it vanishes!  Embrace those shoulders everyone! But make sure that you have plenty of sunscreen.