White Coverups for Rae and Clementine

I do realize that it's the middle of November and that the odd juxtaposition of fleece hat tutorials with Mexico photos may be a bit jarring for some. But what am I supposed to do, wait until spring to post these swim coverups? Maybe they will help put you in a tropical state of mind.

special thanks to my father-in-law John for taking the outdoor shots in Mexico

It all started innocently enough...does anyone remember the Octotunic from a couple years back? I had it in my head that I wanted to make another beachy tunic thing with that pattern (which I had drafted/designed as a maternity top) that could function as both a swim coverup and look good with jeans. Also in the back of my head is this dream of mine to start publishing paper patterns someday and why not bite off way more than you can chew and start with a complicated women's pattern, Rae? Overachievement has always been your cup of tea. {end talking to self} I found this soft white embroidered fabric at JoAnn. For a few minutes I stood conflicted in the aisle, the blogger in me thinking "white is impossible to photograph!" the other part of me going "who CARES? this has to go to Mexico with you!" It had to go to Mexico with me. And thus my coverup was born:

OK. But then there was extra fabric. So I started cutting little sleeves and a teeny little placket and started sewing. The whole time I kept holding it up going "awwwwww!" and feeling pleased with self. There are so many times when I totally wing it and it's a complete disaster. Thank goodness that did not happen this time. I would have cried if this didn't fit her.