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Project Run and Play Beach Bash




This year has been a blur of sewing lots of costumes, a prom dress, and now more costumes. But when I got the invite to join the Project Run and Play Beach Bash, I still couldn't turn it down. Sewing up an outfit just for summer fun isn't something I've had much time for!


My tween, or as they're called in our house, weenager (she can't be mad, she made up the term) informed me she “needed” more crop tops. Apparently all of the t-shirts she's refused to give up since early grade school don't count as crop tops? When looking through my choices, I knew immediately that she was going to love the Striped Swallow Designs Midsummer Dream. I usually ask her what she'd like and get her input on fabric and patterns, but I decided to surprise her with this one because I knew it would be a winner--no pre-approval needed. 



I had several fabrics in my stash that would have been great for this pattern but landed on this striped double gauze from Joann (RIP). I bought it several years ago and both daughters have eyed it a few times. I had just enough to make the top and skirt by lining the top with a solid white woven, which is my preference when sewing with double gauze anyway, because I like to use it to stabilize the gauze. 











I've sewn SSD patterns plenty of times before, and this one was straightforward, just as the others are. Plus, it had a projector file which is always a plus! This pattern is versatile because it is drafted to be used with both woven and knit fabrics, can be sewn up as separates or a dress, and has three skirt length. I didn't have any trims to match my fabric but this pattern is also great for showing off fun trims on the bodice ruffle. 





It turns out I was correct--this is my daughter's new favorite summer outfit. She woke up and put it on the day after I finished it even though she had no plans for the day. 





And you'll probably notice that there is not a beach in sight in any of my pictures, but I have no doubts that this outfit would fit in just as well on a beach as it does in this gorgeous garden. My oldest daughter actually took these pictures and it was hot and humid and miserable this day (as it has been for weeks), and I think all of us would have preferred the beach!



Photo credits: Claire Hartman
Location: Robert Allerton Park

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