I had some hesitation about making the Marnie blouse from Tilly and the Buttons. Let me first say that the blouse is gorgeous and looks stunning on everyone who has shared this make. But, I truly thought it would be too much for me. I mean the ruffles, tucks, puffs and billowy sleeves were a lot. In this post I will share if it worked for me or not. I also want to share with you the aspects I loved and the things I would change.
Showcasing my fabric
My fabric, Shards of Beauty from my Jewels Pattern Collection was the perfect choice for this blouse. It is a fun print, with a youthful vibe to it. This fabric choice turned out to be just as lovely as it was in my mind. I used Spoonflower to print my fabric. Choosing cotton lawn was successful because it has a crispness to it while still being a smooth cotton, which is perfect for a blouse.
Challenging my inner critic
I made this wonderful blouse. Although I loved it on others, I questioned it on myself. Did it make me look bigger? Was I standing out too much? Did it compliment me or make me look juvenile? Even though I liked it, why was I all of a sudden so negative?
As I tried it on, I was hesitant and lacking confidence. I realized that the inner critic was having its moment. Instead of challenging it away with affirming messages, I let it rule.
So what was I going to do? Was I going to show it off on social media or carefully fold it away when I felt more accepting of myself? I did decide to show it off confidently and with pride.
Choosing Confidence
Even as you read through this tutorial, you may be doubting your ability. Can I do this? Is it too hard? What if I mess up?
I know I can help you as I have been where you are. I held back for years sharing my creations because I was constantly worried that others would call me out, revealing my lack of talent.
As creatives, you and I can be held back due to negative thinking. It might look like comparing your ability to others or not having the confidence to pursue your creative talent or putting your creations out into the world.
Is that you? Have you ever found it difficult to cope with imposter syndrome, your inner critic, fear of failure, perfectionistic tendencies, and being hesitant to share your work?
If your answer is yes, I have a Free resource for you. It’s just a click away!
Adjusting the Size
To be honest, it wasn’t just the inner critic that needed examining; there were real, adjustable changes that would enhance the Marnie blouse. Instead of thinking the entire blouse didn’t work, I focused on what I could tweak in order to make it work on me. One tweak would be to take out some of the volume of the bodice. As a full busted woman, I could benefit from less volume in the front. If I made another Marnie blouse, I would go down a full size as well.
I would also make it shorter as the suggested length was too long for how wide it is. Wearing a shorter version with high waisted jeans would create less focus on the voluminous bodice.
A shorter shoulder frill would also lend to less volume on the top.
Great instructions
The step by step instructions from Tilly and the Buttons for making the Marnie blouse were probably the best I have ever seen. The photos were clear as were the instructions that accompanied the photos. Each step of the process was very well thought out. Making the Marnie blouse was almost therapeutic and meditative.
Favorite features of the blouse
The tucks on the front yoke were my favorite feature of the blouse. They were so easy to do but appear difficult to make.
I hope you have enjoyed my journey through making the Marnie Blouse. There is always something to learn from a sewing project, even when it isn’t even connected to sewing. I learned that awareness of and taming the inner critic is crucial if you want your projects to shine.
Blessings (from my sewing room),
Darlene
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