I’m sewing up a storm here! Say hello to my second make of the year and it’s made from this gorgeous Italian wool blend from Minerva as part of their Maker’s Program.

Last year I threw out quite a lot of clothes and realised that I was clearly lacking in my winter wardrobe. To help fill this gap I looked for patterns that could also be seen as being on the smart side of casual, and fabric that had some wool in its composition. I’ve also been drawn to suiting fabrics; I’m not sure what it is about them but I’m really digging them at the moment. When I saw it I knew it would be a perfect match for the Utu Pinafore from Named Clothing’s Breaking the Pattern book. This beautiful dark green wool suiting fabric is a blend of 60% wool and 40% polyester which gives it that lovely medium weight and texture.

The pinafore is fully lined with bust and waist darts at the front and back, giving a more cinched look. I opted for the front button closure because I wanted that little bit more security of it fully closing rather than just going for the D ring ties.

I cut the smallest size and made no alterations to the pattern, but I now wish that I had graded a size up or two at the hips. The garment isn’t tight and I can walk comfortably with it fully buttoned up, but I would have preferred a little more overlap of the front pieces.

For the lining I used this amazing cotton toucan print that was previously destined for some face masks. I was a little concerned that you could see the print when I moved because of how the arm hole is constructed; it’s impossible to fully understitch the lining but it turned out OK in the end. I like the idea that the inside of this serious-looking garment was fun and very carefree.

I finished the pinafore with these 20mm brown round horn buttons and a little 10mm forest green pearl button for the inside. I kinda wish that I had got the brown buttons in a slightly bigger size. It was a little tricky buying buttons online because of the lockdown; I think it’s just one of those things that everyone prefers to see their buttons in real life than on a screen. But in the end I was pleased with my finished garment.

Breaking the Pattern is full of tips about how to hack the patterns that Named have provided in the book, including adding sleeves to the Pinafore, something I would love to do as well. This make took me a few weeks to complete and even though I had previously bagged out a few coats and jackets, attaching the lining did throw me off my making. Named have thankfully done some great videos tutorials explaining how you should navigate any tricky steps - well worth a watch if you are thinking of making your own pinafore or if you are struggling at that point in the instructions.

The wool blend worked really nicely with this pattern and it’s a lovely addition to my wardrobe for the cooler seasons. To style this look you could pair it with any long sleeve top, including shirts, some chunky ankle boots and a statement necklace for the easiest 9-5 you’ll ever need. Or for a more casual feel, swap your top for a t-shirt and trainers.

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