Modified Colette Hawthorn Blouse

After sewing my first Colette Hawthorn Blouse I noticed that I could get it on and off without undoing the buttons from the waist down and also that the facing, fusing and buttons made the peplum a little stiff and heavy in the front. So I decided to modify my planned white seersucker version. I'm not sure if anyone else has hacked their hawthorn blouse or dress in this way, but it's such an easy mod I'd be surprised if they hadn't.

How I did it: Well, its easy peesy.
* Simply cut two back peplum pieces on the fold instead of one back and two front pieces, and don't cut the peplum facing interfacing.
* Make up the entire upper bodice as usual.
* Before adding the peplum, baste the left and right bodice pieces together at the centre front.
*As per instructions, sew the two peplum pieces together and then sew onto the bodice matching up the notches and side seams (below is what it should like like pre buttons).
* Create only five button holes and sew on the buttons.

And that's it! I think it took less time to cut and sew than the original version. And look at the flouncy bouncy peplum it makes for in the front. I only had 1m (45" wide) fabric to make this top and I was able to fit all the pieces needed for this hacked hawthorn blouse. But, I had to cut the underside of the back collar piece on the off-grain, but since its interfaced it wasn't an issue. Thus, this modified hawthorn is also a really great stash buster!

The top turned out a little tighter in the waist than my original version made from a cotton with slight stretch. It's actually a bit of a tight squeeze to get over my chest. Another great modification to the top would be to insert a side invisible zip to prevent stretching the waist taking it on and off.

This top was debuted at Melbourne Laneway Festival. My top survived the day but looks a little worse for wear. These photos were taken from a lovely friends balcony who supplied tickets, drinks and wonderful company! It was also really fun checking out all the weird and wonderful fashions people are sporting at the moment. Tim says it's the golden age for men's clothing. What do you think?