I wish I wore dresses more often! I love how they look and feel. But when I’m choosing my next sewing project, I almost always end up making separates instead. I know I’ll get much more mileage out of a coordinating top and skirt than I will from a single dress.
For this project, I headed straight for the remnant bin and found this tropical fabric. It’s not actually silk, but it has a beautiful sheen, lovely drape, and was surprisingly easy to sew.
I paired the skirt from McCall’s M7931 with the sleeveless blouse from New Look N6656, View B.
Together, they create the look of a dress while giving me so many more styling options. I can wear them as one of my matching sets, or mix each piece with other favorites already hanging in my closet to create unique outfits.
Why I Chose This Combination
One of my favorite things about sewing separates is how versatile they are. I can wear the pieces together as a coordinated outfit or mix each one with other favorites already hanging in my closet.
Instead of one outfit, I really end up with several.
This wasn’t a special matching-set pattern, either. I simply paired two sewing patterns with similar proportions and fabric recommendations. If you’ve never tried combining patterns before, don’t be afraid to experiment. You may discover your favorite handmade outfit comes from two completely different pattern envelopes.
I also have to share my favorite shoes with you! These Jeffrey Campbell Fluxx sandals have been one of my fav purchases. I’ve had them for a few years now, and I still reach for them every time I want a nude heel. They’re elegant, versatile, and comfortable enough to wear for hours. I love them with skirts and summer dresses, but they look just as wonderful with pants and jeans. I found mine at Nordstrom Rack, but they’re still available at Nordstrom. I also found a similar pair pair on Amazon if you’re looking for a more budget-friendly option. Affiliate links included.
The Patterns I Used
I paired these two separate commercial patterns to create my own coordinate set. They complemented each other perfectly and created exactly the look I was hoping for. One of the things I love most about combining separate sewing patterns is that you can mix silhouettes to flatter different body types and create a look that’s completely your own. Here’s what I loved about each one and why I think they make such a great combination.
Shoppable affiliate links included below.
New Look N6656 Blouse
This blouse was the perfect companion to the skirt. I love how it skims the shoulders and bust, then flares around the waist for a comfortable, flattering fit with just the right amount of coverage. The pattern includes two sleeve options; I chose the sleeveless version for summer, but next time I want to try the flutter sleeves. Lengthened, this pattern would make a beautiful short or ankle-length dress! (I actually tried a similar-shaped one on at Macy’s years ago that I still think about!) The simple neckline is clean, classic, and the perfect backdrop for a necklace or statement earrings.
McCall’s M7931 Skirt
I fell in love with this skirt. Seriously. It has beautiful movement and just the right amount of flare without feeling overly full or bulky. The silhouette is feminine and flattering, yet it’s still incredibly comfortable to wear. It skims the body perfectly through the hips before flaring toward the hem, giving it an elegant look without using much extra fabric. It’s also a super versatile piece that can easily be dressed up with heels and jewelry or worn casually with sandals and a simple top.
Looking for more sewing inspiration? Check out my handmade skirt set and my summer top and skirt outfit for two more coordinated looks to make.
Would I Sew It Again?
Absolutely, yes! Whenever I finish a project and immediately start imagining another version, I know I’ve found a good one. This skirt set is definitely one of those projects. I can already picture it in other fabrics, lengths, and variations of the blouse.
I’d try a different fabric.
As much as I love this tropical print, I’d also love to make this skirt in a few solid colors that would coordinate with pieces I already own and be worn more casually. White would probably be my first choice because it’s pretty much my summer uniform. If I created this in a laid-back fabric, I’d consider linen or cotton for an easy, casual day outfit.
Maybe experiment with different lengths …
I love the shape of this skirt so much that I think I’d get a lot of wear out of it in several lengths. An above-the-knee version would be cute for summer, a just-below-the-knee length would be perfect for everyday wear, and I can even picture a flowing maxi version for vacations or evenings out.
If you love making skirts, my free elastic waist skirt pattern is one of the most popular sewing projects on the blog.
I’d definitely make the blouse again.
Next time, I want to try the flutter sleeve option that’s included with the pattern. I also have my eye on the open-back variation, which I think would make such a lovely top for date night, vacations, or other special occasions.
Here’s another pretty blouse pattern I think you’ll love. It was just as fun to sew as it was to wear. If dresses are more your style, be sure to check out my halter dress pattern, one of the most popular sewing projects on the blog.
A New Technique I Tried
I also (finally!) tried a new-to-me hemming technique on this skirt, which will change how I feel about hemming blouses, skirts, and dresses moving forward. I always procrastinated that step because it was scary. This new approach actually makes it fun. No lie! This technique gave the hem a beautiful, professional finish, especially well-suited to light fabric. The results are beautiful, and it’s almost failproof as long as you are careful.
I’m excited to share my process and results in an upcoming video.
I’ll share the technique in more detail on the blog and on my YouTube channel. Until then, here’s a helpful video that demonstrates a similar method.
How to Style a Coordinate Set
Don’t stop at just one version! One of the joys of sewing is creating something that’s uniquely yours. Try different fabrics, play with new pattern silhouettes, and experiment with colors and prints to create unique outfits that reflect your own style. Whatever you choose, a flowing skirt, a fitted blouse, or even adapt a pattern with an elastic waistband, every combination creates a fresh new look. Here are lots of cute ideas to inspire your next coordinate set. Plus, some dreamy accessory ideas!
Summer Celebrations
Date Night
Coastal Style
Classic Timeless
Vacation Ready
Casual Weekend
This project reminded me why I love sewing separates so much. They give me the polished look of a dress while fitting more easily into my everyday wardrobe.
If you’ve been thinking about sewing a coordinated outfit, don’t limit yourself to patterns that come in the same envelope. Sometimes your favorite combination is one you create yourself.
If you make a coordinated set, let me know in the comments below! I love seeing your creations.
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xo,
Cindy
Did you make a cordinating set?
I would love to hear all about it! Let me know what you thought by leaving a comment below and sharing it on Instagram, Facebook, & Pinterest!
Thank you!
About Bloom
Cindy Munson is a lifelong sewer, pattern designer, and former graphic design studio owner. She shares approachable, stylish sewing projects through her blog, Be Brave and Bloom. Her mission is to help others discover the joy of making and live a more creative life. Cindy works from her sunny sewing studio in Minnesota, where she lives with her husband of over 30 years.