Cropped, slim pants are a look that I love, but just doesn't work for me. Fortunately, it is physically impossible for Barbie to look like her legs are stumpy, so I can make her all the cropped skinnies my heart desires.
And when I saw this print, I knew it had to be pants. I kind of wish I could find this print in human scale. I'd totally make myself some pants out of it.
For a pattern, I deconstructed a pair of dreadful pants that came from a
Teresa doll. The fabric Mattel used was an awful plastic-y polyester, and the print was eye searing, but they fit the Fashionista body really well, so they made an excellent pattern.
I added some little vents at the hem, just for the sake of cute. I love this detail on other people, but it never seems to work for me.
For the top, I used
Simplicity 4719, which is a knit crop top. I lengthened it to hip length and did an elbow length sleeve, using the finished edge of the lace as both lower edge and sleeve hems. The neckline is just turned and topstitched, but I'm not thrilled with this finish. I think it needs some lace trim.
For under the lace tee, I made a cropped princess seamed bustier. The fabric is a textured knit without much stretch. I tried several different edge finishes, but all added unsightly bulk, so in the end, I left the edges unfinished.
Overall, I'm pleased with this outfit. I think Melodi looks very chic. And thanks so much to my IG friends for helping me name her! You gave me some great ideas for the other girls as well.
