I’ve been trying to get on board with the velvet trend, you guys.  Seriously I have.  But it feels flashy to me. (Me?  Flashy!  So crazy that I even say that.)  And it kind of reminds me of my Freshman Homecoming dress.  It was blue velvet, with a halter top, a bunch of glitter at the bottom, and a slit up the side.  SO NINETIES.  It’s not shocking that I’m struggling with it, haha.

When my BeeBox arrived at the end of December, I opened the package and was instantly in love with the fabric the girls sent.  It’s a gorgeous berry colored crushed velvet and is so pretty.  I needed to try and push through my fear of this fabric type and just make it work for me.  I really didn’t want another “dressy” outfit in my closet.  I have a ton of dresses and I tend to make them specifically for whatever event we are attending.  So my goal was to create something that was an everyday wear.  But velvet?  Can it be everyday?

Yup.  It totally can.  Jeans, black booties, and a bralette peaking out the back is all that it took to make this a super cute, casual-worthy top.  I’m not mad for a second.  I will admit that I’m still working on wearing cross-front tops comfortably with my large chest.  But I adore the fact that this pattern is drafted to be worn both ways and the “backwards” option allows for a little sexy back action.

And just for funsies, here’s a quick side-by-side of the two ways I wore the same shirt today.  All I changed was my pants, and switched the shirt from front to back.  I totally dig the jeans version the most.  What do you think?

[otw_shortcode_info_box border_type=”bordered” border_style=”dashed”]

Pattern: Mama Claire by Made for Mermaids

Fabric: Berry Velved from VHCO [/otw_shortcode_info_box]

**As always, you’ll find some affiliate links scattered within my post, which means I receive a small amount of compensation if you end up purchasing something I’ve recommended.  Thanks for helping to feed my sewing habits!