Hi Everyone  Its Amy, Editor of Love Sewing Magazine here. Today I'm sharing three of my favourite Simple Sew patterns with you that I've made recently. I hope you love them as much as I do.

Sophia Top & Blouse

First up is the Sophia top and skirt; My version of the skirt is hacked to just below knee length. I really love this pattern because the two front pleats are placed in a really flattering place to keep the centre front flat but they still add fullness to the skirt.

Normally ankle length, you can easily crop the length to whatever you fancy. Just shorten the hem staying true to the grain line. Easy peasy. I also used a very stiff cotton duck (like a canvas basically) from Cath Kidston after working with it on the magazine. This is often how my money disappears, buying things I've seen in the office.  While it is a simple skirt, it does give the chance to play with extra details. I wanted to see if I could make a neat lapped zipper in such a thick fabric so swapped out the suggested concealed zipper. I've previously made this skirt in crepe for a lovely swishy version. Its so versatile! Id recommend picking a size based on your waist and then grade the hips as needed.


Poppy Top & Dress

Next is the Poppy top and dress; with gently fluted sleeves and neckline pleats instead of darts its a pretty nice top that could be made for everyday wear or a special night out.  

My navy viscose print was the perfect match for the pattern, as it has plenty of drape. I made the size 8 and let out the hips out to a 10 but it isn't close fitting so didn't need too much extra room. I should have made the 10 at the upper body I think as its a tiny bit tight.  Its a super quick make though and the pleats are fun to make. It showcases fabric off really well as it doesn't cut up a print too much. There's a decent size facing underneath which supports the neckline pleats well. And a cute keyhole back letting you pick a pretty button from your huge stash to use or is that just me?


Lena Wrap Dress

Last but not least is the Lena Wrap dress; a vintage inspired surplice dress for jersey knits with lined bodice, sleeve variations and hem band at the skirt.

This dress is extra cosy because I lined the bodice in self fabric which is a little bulky but warmth wins over bulk. And I made the hem band in self fabric as I don't mind the seam at all (even though it would be more effective in a contrast colour or print).  I used a zigzag stitch and my overlocker for construction and I'm super pleased how its holding up inside. The flared skirt is fabulously twirly for a jersey dress and I feel very smart when I wear it. All in all, a big thumbs up. I should really make another!