Cleo + Gemma
My absolutely favorite Cleo/Gemma outfit is this one that Jess made out of a stunning border print nearly a decade ago. That post always reminds me why I love creating basic, easy sewing patterns: you can make them over and over out of different fabrics and you’ll have a wardrobe of entirely unique garments from the same base patterns. Bonus: no need to keep experimenting with fit.
My goal when I was sewing this outfit was to take the amazing block print fabric I had found at Romy’s shop (SewLike) a while back and create an epic Cleo skirt and Gemma tank combo. I knew I wanted something fun to wear to teach in Maine and Minnesota this past August at Gathering of Stitches and Squamadu (more on those experiences soon, hopefully…), and I wanted a chance to practice my favorite french inseam pocket technique for the inseam pockets on the skirt. Did I remember to take a close up of those pockets for you? NO. No I did not.
Anyway, goal achieved, as I’m quite pleased with this outfit:
In case you’re not familiar with my pattern library, the sewing patterns here are my Cleo pattern (skirt) and Gemma pattern (tank).
Cleo comes in both print and PDF, Gemma comes in PDF only. Both Gemma and Cleo have been updated into our most inclusive size range (up to 66” bust / 70” hip), and now also have layered pattern piece files - copyshop, print-at-home, and projector).
Pattern Notes:
You know it wouldn’t be a Rae-made-this post without a little bit of variation to keep things fun, so here’s a list of the pattern notes and mods.
Cleo - view B, lengthened by cutting the front/back skirt pieces halfway between the view A and view B cutting lines, added view A hem bands (which I made taller - cut 12” tall). I make a size E even though I think I’m closer now to a size F. Gotta love an elastic waistband.
Gemma - cropped with a flat hem (tutorial for that here), skipped binding the neckline and armholes with bias trim and I drafted a neck/armhole facing and constructed it burrito-style instead. I make a size E using the front bodice with the smaller dart (my full chest measurement is 38”)
PS. Special thanks to my awesome friend Deepika Prakash for taking these photos at Squam!!!