It’s funny how times have changed. There is a phrase that is popular here in Tennessee: “On Saturdays we wear orange.” University of Tennessee orange to be exact. Football used to be such a huge part of my life. My husband and I used to spend Saturdays watching any game that came on TV and made our plans around game times. Sundays were even better. Noon Titans’ games followed by a nap during afternoon games and finished out the evening with Sunday night football.

Enter kids and a move to Japan. We lost our weekend football routine. Saturday plans now center around two little boys’ nap times (with a silent prayer thrown up in hopes of a nap for Mommy, too). My weekends consist of sneaking in sewing projects, not the fourth quarter. This past weekend I was lucky enough to do some selfish sewing while my husband had a guys night out on Friday.  Then, Poppy played with the boys on Saturday morning. We had a rare 70 degree January day that allowed Jon take a few photos of me in my new creations.

If there is anything I have learned in my short time sewing, it is that most women have issues with their body. We all are our biggest critic and sometimes go out of our way to find something wrong. Yesterday, however, I felt good about myself. I took the time to do my hair and make up, put on me made clothes, and enjoy a beautiful Saturday in the South. Saturday had a old feeling about it. One that was young and carefree. One that was a captivating as a close SEC match up. One that I felt proud of myself and didn’t search for the imperfections in life.

Pictured are a sleeveless Drama Dress from George & Ginger Pattern Company. The brushed poly floral is from Knitpop.  I love the fitted bust of the dress and the big flare out that gives the skirt such a full look. This is my second make from G&G, but I will definitely be making more from Kristi’s line up.

Next is a favorite mash up of mine. I combined the Raglan style sleeves from Patterns for Pirates Slim Fit Raglan and the flowy body of the Free Spirit Tank (affiliate links). I altered the sleeves in between the short sleeve and the 3/4 length to create an elbow length. It’s my first time going with an elbow length, but it is perfect for me since I always push my sleeves up.

Also, I created a subtle high low hem as I have found that even though I love the coverage a tunic length gives me in the back, I prefers hem to hit higher in the front. I feel like it makes my curvy hips look more flattering. I styled it with skinny jeans, my favorite ankle boots and a beautiful tiered necklace from my stepmom (Shout out to Ann!!).  The navy polka dots are single brushed poly and the white is double brushed poly from Love Adore Knit Fabrics