I am always so self conscious to sew something for myself and actually wear it. I want my handmade clothing to look and fit like store bought clothing. Well...Made For Mermaids has done just that. They have recently released the new mama Lily and girl’s lillian patterns. I have been eyeing up similar items from online boutiques and have been too nervous to spend the money on something from a shop I have never heard of. Plus what would the chances be that it would actually fit when it arrived? So, I was thrilled about these patterns and the options included are endless.

The bodice options include: halter, halter with straps, split back and full back. In addition, you can choose to add or omit a lace overlay or fabric inset on the front of the bodice. The options for the bottom include shorts with two inseam choices, skirts of various lengths and pants. Whew, when you put all of those options together the sky really is the limit of your creativity. For my version here I used a Nicole Miller apparel fabric that had a little stretch and leather for my fabric inset and binding. Both of these fabrics were from my local Joanns. As always with Made for Mermaids, the details in the directions are clear, concise and easy to follow. The pictures also provide great detail for each step. The pattern can be made from knits or wovens. The knit is the most forgiving for fit, so if you are worried about how it will fit your body you could always make a knit version first knowing it will have some stretch. I have now made 3 of the mama Lily in different styles and I love it when people ask me where I bought them and I can proudly tell them that I made them!