This two piece set is by far my most favorite thing I created for my #SewAmalfi series! I haven’t made a button down shirt in years, and making something so precise and clean is actually a lot harder than making a loose, flowing dress! I loved wearing this two piece stripe short set on the boat ride we took to Capri in Italy, because it was so great for layering, and I could wear both pieces separately to cover up when necessary.
Let’s talk about the design in more detail, shall we?
The Inspiration
Most of the original designs I had for #SewAmalfi came from Slim Arons images I looked at from the 1960s. I loved the vintage two piece sets, especially the elaborate outfits they wore to swim in. While now we tend to pare it back when we go to the beach, the women in his images wore big earrings, sunglasses, turbans, you name it! I wanted to re-create that look with some easy and practical accessories and and a two piece stripe short set that hinted at those vintage images.
The Design
The starting point for this design was actually the lemon appliqués. I drew the lemon appliqué pattern and had it printed by Spoonflower in the perfect size to cut out the appliqués. I new I wanted a retro/campy design (sort of like old bowling shirts) where the lemon applique pattern descends down the front of the shirt and shorts.
I actually found the yarn dye base fabric at a discount fabric store by my house, and absolutely love it! The fabric is completely breathable and perfect for warm weather, but was substantial enough to hold on to the appliqué. Regarding the applique, I will admit I cheated a little bit. I used stitch witchery to appliqué the lemons onto the shirt,  but did not sew around the outside of each lemon to save time. Let it be known that the correct way to do this would be either to hand sew or machine stitch the lemons to ensure they are secure!
The Result
As I said before, I am in love with a two piece stripe short set! It’s adorable, unique, and my new favorite way to dress for boating or tanning poolside. Wearing a two piece set by the water feels unnecessary and chic at the same time, which is why it’s so fun! I completed the styling of this look with a head wrap using my lemon fabric, my well worn oversize white sunglasses, and the cutest stripe bathing suit (top and bottom here)!
I love how it came out and can’t wait to wear it again- what do you think of it?
And don’t forget to see how the whole #SewAmalfi series comes together through these posts:
#SewAmalfi Rainbow Brick Dress
#SewAmalfi Lemon Two Piece Set
#SewAmalfi Inspiration Board
#SewAmalfi DIY circle rope bag tutorial
#SewAmalfi 3 DIY Sunglasses to Try
