So much news about COVID-19, it’s everywhere. And for good reason, yes, we need to know what’s going on and change our behaviors in order to flatten the curve. Totally. Absolutely.
But, … it can be a bit overwhelming so, for a little respite,
How about a few pictures of pretty clothes?
Here’s a couple from an ‘In Process’ story I posted a few months back. I showed them as I was working on them, here they are finished.
A pieced jacket, white with bits of blues. This one felt like parts of bridges to me, so the name, ‘Bridges.’

I loved the meisen pattern on this kimono silk, so much so that I cut it apart and appliquéd little squares of it on the bottom part of this trench coat. My previous post showed all the squares pinned in place ready to be sewn down.

With or without a belt, above without, below with.

A close up, showing that I cut each square with part or all of the design shapes. I love those odd little shapes, almost like a long lost alphabet.

A shawl coat, made from a kimono that gradated from a darker area at the bottom and faded to a lighter area at the top. I switched it around so the collar used only the lighter area and the body only the darker. I added little green squares to mimic the tiny green leaves scattered in the silk.
And used the same bright spring green, on the under collar.

This pattern is a traditional one, it’s a grass design. One of my favorites.
A detail,

Below, a hitoe, an unlined top. Between a jacket and a blouse, I wear mine for either, as a top layer or under as a blouse. As you can see, this one is from is a particularly amazing kimono silk. So beautiful.
The pieces above are no longer available, but this hitoe is. I’ll add it to my shop page. Go see it and other jackets, scarves and coats here.

And one last thing, an uplifting and sweet video. This link came from one of the podcasts I’ve been listening to. It’s a beautiful rendition of ‘Over the Rainbow’ performed by the Chino Hills High School Chamber Singers, each one of them separate and in their own space. Their concert had been cancelled because of Covid -19. Check it out here.
I send peace, love and health to you and all your family and friends.
Take care, you two! At least you won’t run out of things to work on!
Thank You Judith! You are so right, I will not run out of projects. I believe I have enough supplies for several lifetimes.
Thanks so much for sharing! I’m spending a lot of time in my sewing room . . . I may make a real dent in my stash!
I’m with you Sharon, making a dent in our stash. The longer we’re inside, the more likely it will be.
Hi Ann
I bought an old (under robe?) from a kimono around 20 years ago. It is hand made in a white flowered silk. It is deteriorating and has spots but I’m just checking to see if you might want it to cut up for something. I could send it to you if you’re interested.
I hope you all are well. Stay safe.
I worry about mom but she is doing ok for now. Leanne is great with the 5 o’clock cocktails! And I join in by FaceTime most days. We are settled on Bainbridge island now and it’s nice to be here!
Stay safe
Lynn (Ritchey) Duncan
Thank you Lynn! It’s good to hear from you.
And thank you for your kind offer, alas, I am overwhelmed with fabrics, so am ok and do not need any more.
5 o’clock cocktails can help!
All my very best to you, Leanne and especially to your mom.
Yes, by all means show us more pictures of your beautiful garments. I think that trench is particularly stylish and sophisticated.
One good thing about this is people can still shop your gorgeous work from home!
Thank you for sharing the video link. Of course I got all teary. All those young talented kids still making the world better with their music.
Thank you Elisabeth!
The kids singing Somewhere Over the Rainbow made me teary too. So beautiful.
Yes, gorgeous clothing. I suggest coordinating face masks for each outfit?
Deborah, I love it, the newest trend in fashion accessories: coordinating face masks.