Balenciaga Mystery Box
It’s pretty much impossible to turn down free fabric. So when Mood Fabrics offered an opportunity to promote* their exclusive collection of Balenciaga deadstock, I signed right up.
And then I immediately googled, Balenciaga. Their ready to wear items are very pricey. We’re talking $3000 for a dress pricey. Ok. wow.
Mood sent out Myyyssssstery Boxes (read in a spooooky voice). Like life and a box of chocolates, I didn't know what I was going to get.
Balenciaga Italian Yellow, Green and Black Lemon Bubbles and Herbs Stretch Viscose Jersey, Item #: 429692
The bright print was going to be a challenge for me! Off to The Webs to see what the designer had created with his fabric.
Ok. Great and all. But it's July.
Ultimately, a Makerist post with a new-to-me designer’s pattern would be a perfect style match.
The Overall Sienna by @primarimma is available in PDF format with both German and English instructions and detailed illustrations. Six sizes are included, XS-XL (limited to ~44” hip).
I chose size M as my body measurements put me between the S and M. The rule of thumb to size down (for knitwear) would have been a good one to follow, but I was a bit leery of doing so for a pattern brand I had no experience with.
I made a muslin of the top portion with my fashion fabric and found some gaping under the bust (a common fit issue for me). The front band was a bit loose too (did I read a comment to this effect in an Etsy review?).
Having basted the side seams, it was not difficult to remove a 1.5" wedge from below the bust and shorten the front waistband by 2". I also added wide elastic in the band which functions to support the pants portion well.
The Balenciaga fabric sewed up wonderfully. While it has great drape and movement, the fabric also has excellent recovery and is more stable than I expected for viscose jersey (7% elastane). I would have guessed it was an ITY. She passed the burn test though!
Never once did this fabric get pulled down into the plate on my sewing machine (in straight stitch mode).
The twist is the most challenging part of the Sienna. Definitely try it with fabric that has obvious faces for the first go. (YouTube video sewing tutorial here.)
It’s true, Beth, that the only accessory a Balenciaga Sienna needs is a cocktail. Cheers, Love!
Nevertheless, I was inspired by local fashion maven Courtney to style the jumpsuit for a few different occasions.
Chunky booties and a funky tank under became my favorite look.
Tank is the Lola tank with widened bands.
Layered with a white blouse is also easy and fun.
Maybe even a turtleneck under? If it weren’t 90 degrees outside, I may have dug one out of my winter wardrobe.
So I stepped way outside my comfort zone for this collaboration. I love the feel of the jumpsuit on and I can see myself making another one in a solid color. I’m thinking this version ought to be auctioned for charity. Would you pay $3000!? A girl can dream.
Balenciaga vs HavinSewMuchFun
Alternate caption: Nice. But did you sew it yourself?
I've since used the Sienna pattern to make a swim top, but that's a story for another post.
*Several swatches, three yards of Balenciaga fabric, and $50 credit for a giveaway in exchange for three feed posts.
