After battling a long and very hard winter, we were blessed with a blissful day of sunshine and 50 degree temps on Friday.

It was a welcome reminder that spring is on the way! Spring means camping and lots of time outdoors. It also means pretty dresses… flowy tops… bright prints… All things that I’ve missed all winter and things that I LOVE to sew. Naturally, I was inspired to dig into my vintage fabric collection and break out the sewing machine.

 My pattern of choice was the Anna Tunic by Amy Butler.

This is the second time I’ve made this pattern. I made the dress version back in 2009.

I decided to go with a tunic this time. I am so pleased with the results! I think this top actually turned out better than the dress. Maybe it was due to my prior experience with this pattern.

I made minor changes to the pattern by omitting the body lining and the belt. I also added a bias trim with the yellow print to the yoke.

While I’m in no shape today to model the top, I plan to style it with a wide leather belt.

What makes this top special are the fabrics. They belonged to my grandmother. Because of their age, I was a bit apprehensive about moving forward with them. Would they hold up? I laundered them first and they maintained their body so I plowed onward.

With the completion of this project, I feel like I’m back in the swing of things. I’m planning to start this skirt, Vogue 8882, this week. I have a lovely pin dot cotton with an embroidered border that was made for a flowy skirt like this.

http://voguepatterns.mccall.com/v8882-products-44854.php?page_id=263

So looking forward to warm temps, fun fashion, and bare legs. Spring can’t get here soon enough!