I am super excited to share my Suki Kimono on the blog today! I fell in love with this fabric from IndieSew when Allie released it back in January, and I knew it would be my perfect Suki Kimono. It has been sitting washed and ready to go on my shelf ever since, and I’m so glad to finally be wearing it! It is the perfect loungewear, and I have every intention of swanning around the house in this constantly throughout the summer. Side note – I’m also looking forward to the fact that this will be the most magical “me made” for May next year. I’ll be cute and put together in a me made garment, without ever having to actually change out of my pajamas the entire month!!
So let’s get down to business – the pattern! I knew that I was going to love this pattern before I even dug into it – I am a huge fan of Helen’s patterns, and was so impressed with the instructions when sewing up the Blackwood Cardigan last year. I’ve got plans to make the Winslow Culottes and the Avery Leggings, and the only reason I’ve been able to hold out this long on the Suki Kimono was because I wanted to be on track with Sew My Style!!
The print-at-home version of this pdf pattern was intimidating to say the least. I actually printed it out months ago, intending to get it all put together, but as I had only used a couple of print-at-home patterns at that point, the sheer number of pages on this one had me avoiding cutting and taping pretty fiercely. I finally got down to it, and it wasn’t quite as bad as I’d imagined. There are a lot of pages, but in the end not a lot of pieces. Basically, I told myself suck it up buttercup, and it was worth it in the long run!
One of my favorite things about Helen’s Closet patterns is the attention to detail. In both her written instructions and the actual pattern design, Helen includes tips, tricks, and designs that really make your garment perfect when it is finally constructed. In the Suki Kimono, these details include a hanging loop for your robe, inner ties so that it doesn’t fall open when you’re least expecting it (especially important if you are working with a slippery fabric!) and details throughout her instructions about using different finishing techniques based on your finish preferences or skill level. I loved working through this pattern, and though I considered leaving some of the details out in order to finish my kimono a little quicker, I decided to take my time sewing and include every lovely detail. I’m super glad I did – the final piece looks so professional, and I know this will last me for years.
Helen gives you two finishing options when sewing on your sleeve cuffs are the kimono collar piece. She talks through the fact that one is easier than the other (advanced beginner vs. intermediate), but also uses great illustrations to help you decide which to choose! I actually really loved an exposed overlocked seam on the inside of a garment, so I went the “advanced beginner” route for both pieces and I loved the end result! However, if you don’t have a serger or prefer the look of fully enclosed seams, she offers beautiful instructions for those, too!
Next, let’s talk about styling. I mentioned in my inspiration post earlier this week that I’m so intrigued by all of the ways that you can style this piece! Though I am most excited to stay home looking glamorous in my Suki and my comfiest pajamas while watching Netflix or reading all the books (or let’s be serious – while sewing), I’m also absolutely positive that this fabric is too gorgeous to be confined to the house.
So, taking a style cue from some of the lovely images on pinterest, I’ve also styled this up in a way that is perfect for a day out on the town. The best part is that this means that I can literally come home, change out of my jeans, and be ready to lounge in no time flat (seriously. I’m wearing my Suki and my Ogden in both of these outfits, with a simple change of pants. LOVE THAT.)
Alright guys – so there you have it! Despite taking my time and including all of the lovely detail pieces in this pattern, I was able to put this to get this whipped up in just about a week. I can’t wait to see what you everyone else out there puts together this month! If you’re intimidated by any of the steps in the pattern, you’re in luck – Helen has posted the schedule for the Suki Sewalong on her blog here, and it starts today! If you sew right along with her schedule, you too will have a beautiful Suki Kimono is about a week and a half!
Comment below or tag me on instagram as you finish your versions – I can’t wait to see them!
Kimono Robe: handmade by me
Pattern: Helen’s Closet – Suki Kimono
Fabric: Blush Tropics – Rayon Crepe from IndieSew (unfortunately, now sold out)
- XX Elizabeth
