Curated By You: Alexis Bailey Makes A Simplicity Linen Robe

December 22, 2019 by Masha Karpushina 9223 1

Alexis is wearing Simplicity Robe made with FS WILDCHERRY mid weight Linen

Tell us a bit about yourself and what you do.

I am a blogger and sewing influencer on Instagram. I create handmade pieces according to my aesthetic and my husband snaps photos along the way to capture it all.

Why do you sew?

When I got married I went through a state of self awareness and realized retail clothing didn’t fit my pear shaped body. Gaps in the waists of pants, low quality fabrics, and various inconsistencies in sizing all made me feel less comfortable being in my own skin as a woman and I sought to make clothing that made me feel good about my body. I also disliked that the stigma with all women’s clothing was tight or polyester material so I wanted to create clothing that was comfortable, timeless and stylish.

What do you like to listen to when you’re working (and why)?

Lately I have been immersed in true crime podcasts. I love mysteries but lately, I’ve found true crime podcasts to be engaging and storytelling while being informative as well. My favorites are Criminal, White Lies and All Crime No Cattle

As a child, what was your first encounter and memory of beauty?

It might be cliche but my mother has always been a beautiful person to me. Her style and her personality are fierce but she’s very humble and down to earth at the same time. She’s a strong beautiful woman in my eyes.

Where is home and how does it affect what you do?

Home for me is our condo where my industrial sewing machine is. My husband and I both have our own workstations in the living room along with the TV so we’re kind of always hanging out together and I can get his feedback on what I’m working on, be alone and enjoy quality time with him all at the same time.

Name a book that you’ve recently read which inspired you and why?

I am currently in the book of Genesis in my Bible reading and the account of Joseph inspires me greatly. How he dealt with so many bad circumstances sent his way but in reality, it was all for the purpose of working good towards him. It inspires me to push forward no matter who or what tries to deter me or bring me down.

What was the first thing you ever remember making on your own? Tell us about this memory.

I remember making my little sister and I matching dresses when she was a baby (she’s 14 now) and I was 12. My dress was decent for a 12 year olds work but hers was a little small because I didn’t have much experience measuring before. She only wore the dress once and she was a baby so she probably has no idea it existed but I like to think that was her favorite dress ever.

Who are your muses and inspiration?

Warlene Rene is an inspiration because of her ethereal style. Abolaji is someone I look to for ideas on neutrals and basic silhouettes. And Katie Kortman is definitely color inspiration. Fabric inspires me more than anything however. I love bold colors and prints, and I’m in love with natural fibers

Do you have a community of crafters/ makers around you or do you find you are on your own?

Project Sew Dallas is a community of makers near me that get together once a month hosted by @Thatssomonica. They’re a cool group of ladies. I find I prefer to sew by myself more than anything though, it’s my relaxation and happy place.

How important is it to make something with your hands?

Now that I understand my body and what does and doesn’t work with it, making with my hands is crucial. I feel a sense of appreciation and love for myself and my body that is indescribable and can only come with the talent I’ve been blessed with. I encourage every woman to do the same for themselves, pursue a hobby, try something new, learn a new thing… It feels so empowering and I feel all women need that strength

What does success mean to you?

For me success is measured in how much I’ve stayed true to myself and my beliefs. Not compromising myself to others or losing myself in what I do or the people I’m around. I’m successful if I don’t allow people to change my perception of me for the bad. But as long as I do my best to be the best person I can be, that’s what matters.

Alexis is wearing Simplicity Robe made with FS WILDCHERRY mid weight Linen

What have you chosen to make out of FS linen and why?

I made Simplicity #8553 view C to go along with my new handmade faux silk pajama set. I wanted a nice linen robe in a pretty color and this wild cherry color is rich and gorgeous in its shade. This robe also can double as a dress.

FS WILDCHERRY Mid Weight Softened 100% Linen

FS WILDCHERRY Softened 100% Linen comes in Mid Weight

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