The Kitchen Sink

31 Dec The Kitchen Sink

Dear Readers ~ Many thanks for your enthusiastic responses to my last post! It was simply heartwarming to hear from you 🙂

The end of the year roundup is not one of my favorite posts to write. I find it difficult to choose favorites with anything. I can’t name my favorite song, meal, movie, book or vacation spot, however I find it very important to review, reflect and learn from my experiences.

Sewing during 2014 took on a life of its own with a second Ready-to-Wear Fast accompanied by a wedding. I bought nothing yet sewed fewer garments than I expected, which I attribute to the short leash I was on, the fear of making a less than perfect MOB dress and my December break. But did I ever learn how to sew dresses!

If I must choose a favorite dress it’s Vogue 1303. The sewing experience was fun and the dress just makes me happy.

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The sewing project I am most proud of is the MOB dress, Vogue 8766. The sewing experience tested my fortitude, and wearing the dress at my daughter’s wedding tested my chutzpah for sure.

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But if I judge my favorite garment based on what received the most wear, I might declare Katie Spade Skirt Number 3 as the winner.

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The misses are easy to pinpoint! I have much to learn about drafting my own patterns and working with trims,

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and as painful as it is, I must remember I am not 25 anymore 😉

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During 2014 Goodbye Valentino received significant publicity. I was honored to be featured in Vogue Patterns Magazine, the Schmetz Needles publication, The Spartanburg Magazine, as well as being named one of the top 50 sewing blogs by Burda!

Once again, I offer a huge thank you to Mood Fabrics for its generous supply of fabric and publicity through the Mood Sewing Network.

It was a very good year dear Readers!

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CONGRATULATIONS TO ALL 2014 RTW FASTERS WHO COMPLETED THE YEAR WITHOUT BUYING A SINGLE GARMENT!

The RTW Fasters have truly knocked my socks off by sewing terrific clothes. Their sewing mojo inspired and challenged me throughout the year! I asked the Fasters for one word to describe their the year-long fast and received the following:

Liberating – Challenging – Adventurous – Strengthening – Inspiring – Fun – Self Awareness – Refreshing – Couture – Focusing – Enlightening – Encouraging – Reaffirming ………..

Might I add the word Disciplined ? I faced many temptations this year but made it through thanks company of these committed women!

So now it’s time to celebrate with a shopping trip……… or not 🙂

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2015 RTW Fast

Many of you have asked if I am planning a 2015 RTW Fast. I will  sponsor a RTW Fast for those who would like to take the challenge during 2015.

To be included, send your name, photo and an online photo album or blog address to goodbyevalentino@gmail.com Fasters will be featured on Goodbye Valentino and connected with others taking the pledge.

I will not be fasting from RTW during 2015, because guess what?
My younger daughter became engaged last week so I have another wedding to plan! I will certainly be sewing but I want to avoid the stress I endured this past year.

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 Giveaway Winner

A big congratulations to MARGARET WINTERS, the winner of The Swatch Book! Please contact me at goodbyevalentino@gmail.com no later than Sunday January 3 or a new winner will be selected.

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What a year it has been and what a year it will be! I hope you will celebrate your originality during the coming year through creative endeavors and by just being you 🙂

Best wishes and Happy New Year to all!

goodbyevalentino
goodbyevalentino@gmail.com
94 Comments
  • Fran Giacobbe
    Posted at 13:20h, 31 December Reply

    I was happy to read that you will continue to post. Congratulations on your daughter’s engagement …a wise decision to avoid any additional stress by committing to yet another RTW fast. I enjoy reading your sewing adventures.. Could not bring myself to comment on the GOMI situation as I just couldn’t grasp why anyone would be unkind. Onward and upword!

    • Goodbye Valentino
      Posted at 14:16h, 31 December Reply

      Hi Fran!
      Many thanks for your comment! I haven’t decided about the MoB dress and will entertain sewing another, but do not want to be obligated 😉
      Happy New Year!

  • Myra
    Posted at 13:22h, 31 December Reply

    Thank you Sarah for sponsoring an awesome year of RTW fasting! This year I Greek, has been a very challenging one! while I too, didn’t sew as much as I wanted to, I learned so very much about myself and my sewing skills. I’d like to congratulate all of the ladies who joined the 2014 RTW fast! I hope everyone found it as fun and challenging as I did!

    • Goodbye Valentino
      Posted at 13:57h, 31 December Reply

      Thank you for participating, Myra! Your clothes are beautiful and creative 🙂 Happy New Year!

  • Sarah Ioannides
    Posted at 13:30h, 31 December Reply

    Audrey and I really love the the flower color dress and the shawl!!! Nice post!

    We send you and your family begs wishes for a Happy New Year!

    • Goodbye Valentino
      Posted at 13:56h, 31 December Reply

      Thank you, Sarah! Happy New Year to you and your family 🙂 🙂

  • Gail M
    Posted at 13:46h, 31 December Reply

    Sarah, I m so glad that you found that the support of your followers far out-weighed the naysayers. I am also thrilled to hear that you will sponsor another RTW Fast (although Ann T.’s may not be so happy!). It is exciting to discover a community of women who enjoy the challenge and creativity that sewing offers. Finally, I do not blame you with wanting to buy your next MOB dress, although I will say the one you made was stunning! Happy wedding planning and an even Happier New Year!

    • Goodbye Valentino
      Posted at 13:55h, 31 December Reply

      Gail,
      Thank you for your comment! I might make my next MOB dress if it feels right but I don’t want to be obligated to. Who knows right now 😉 Happy New Year and it sounds like you may join the 2015 RTW Fasters!

  • Pat Brown
    Posted at 13:49h, 31 December Reply

    Thank you for your delightful and inspirational blog, I always enjoy reading it. and am inspired by your tutorials and sharing. You do the Sewing Community proud. I wish You and Yours, all the best for 2015. Cheers, Pat

    • goodbyevalentino
      Posted at 12:44h, 02 January Reply

      Many thanks for your lovely comment, Pat, and best wishes for a great 2015!

  • Laura Casey
    Posted at 14:18h, 31 December Reply

    Oh how I loved the year!….but also will decline the pressure of another RTW-FAST…..I do want to make a coat this next year, have never tried to do….need to up my skills when it comes to zippers….and embrace the muslin! Your poppy dress was also my fav, it’s just so happy along with your remake of your DH’s sweater.

    Please keep your blog up….it is my best inspiration that I can do anything!! If you can…. (smile)

    Happy New Year

    • Goodbye Valentino
      Posted at 14:23h, 31 December Reply

      Oh I’m smiling all right! Many thanks for your comment, Laura and Happy New Year!

  • didyoumakethat
    Posted at 14:32h, 31 December Reply

    Thank you for all your inspiration and warmth over the past year!

  • Lola
    Posted at 14:44h, 31 December Reply

    Interesting how many times the word “Liberating” came up! Congrats on the movement you have inspired and and the coming year festivities.

    • goodbyevalentino
      Posted at 12:45h, 02 January Reply

      I agree Lola! Many thanks for the comment 🙂

  • Virginia
    Posted at 14:54h, 31 December Reply

    I will admit to “falling off the Faster wagon” a few times but was still pleased with the garments I did make. My biggest take-away from this year is that it forced me to really look at what I already had in my closet and use those items! That might sound silly but often my first thought when an occasion comes up is ” I need to go shopping”. I am glad that wasteful habit is broken and I have shopped my closet. Another reaction to this challenge is that I am more aware of shoddy construction in RTW and even in higher end items. I realize I can make a better constructed garment than I can purchase in most stores. Thank you Sarah for your inspiration and I am anxious to follow your blog for another interesting year.

    • goodbyevalentino
      Posted at 12:47h, 02 January Reply

      Virginia, I believe many women fall into the ‘shopping reaction trap’ to social events. Congratulations on becoming a more mindful consumer, and many thanks for your thoughtful comment!

  • Rachel
    Posted at 15:04h, 31 December Reply

    Congratulations to your family – engagements are so special. Thank you for hosting this year’s RTW fast. I thoroughly enjoyed the challenge and associated camaraderie. I’m going to continue the this into next year, but will allow myself a few wild cards for purchases throughout the year. At times, I felt the pressure not to give up on the goal almost overwhelming. Extremely glad that I did it though, so thank you again, and all the best for 2015! Rachel 🙂

    • goodbyevalentino
      Posted at 14:29h, 02 January Reply

      Thank you, Rachel and congrats on successfully completely the 2014 fast! I believe the camaraderie among fasters could be the most helpful aspect of success. It was for me 🙂

  • Patti Hall
    Posted at 15:12h, 31 December Reply

    This has been a wonderful year as a 2014 RTW Faster. I cannot believe I did it!! It surely opened my eyes to what I needed in my wardrobe and how to accomplish that. I did not sew as much as I thought I would but what I did sew has such meaning to me. The best thing that happened was a compliment on a jacket I made for the holidays. When I said I had made it, the friend immediately said, “I need to get a new sewing machine and start doing that!!” Another person influenced by your inspiration!! Looking forward to the new year and all the sewing that will transpire!

    • goodbyevalentino
      Posted at 14:30h, 02 January Reply

      Ah….. thank you so much, Patti and congratulations on completing the RTW Fast!

  • Elaine
    Posted at 15:14h, 31 December Reply

    As much as I enjoy seeing the garments that you sew, I must admit that I am every bit as interested in seeing how you accessorize them in your photos. I love the shoes you are wearing with your flowery dress. I’ve noticed that I’m not the only one that asks about your jewelry, scarves, shoes, etc. Love GBV style.

    • goodbyevalentino
      Posted at 14:31h, 02 January Reply

      Many thanks for your nice comment, Elaine! Accessories can make or break an outfit, huh?

  • Melissa Schulze
    Posted at 15:21h, 31 December Reply

    Your dresses are stunning!!! I love seeing what you have made and watching your process!! Congratulations on the upcoming wedding!!

    • goodbyevalentino
      Posted at 14:32h, 02 January Reply

      Thank you so much, Melissa!

  • Rory Franklin
    Posted at 15:35h, 31 December Reply

    I’d like to add one more comment about your post using that beautiful cashmere. I read a lot of different blogs because I love the range of voices. If you were to kowtow to the opinion of a few, you’re blog would be stripped of all that’s unique about you. My lifestyle doesn’t include expensive items, but I love what you do. After all, it’s Goodbye Valentino not Goodbye Target. Best wishes in a new year and I look forward to more of your unique voice and creations.

    • goodbyevalentino
      Posted at 14:36h, 02 January Reply

      Many thanks for your supportive comment, Rory 🙂 The word expensive is relative in my opinion, but the point is more about liberating one’s self from dependency of RTW and using one’s creativity to improve her wardrobe.
      Best wishes for a Happy New Year!

  • Eileen
    Posted at 16:00h, 31 December Reply

    Happy New Year, sweet lady. Thanks for all your inspiration in 2014!

    • goodbyevalentino
      Posted at 14:37h, 02 January Reply

      ………. and thank you, Eileen for your nice comment 😉 Happy New Year!

  • Ginger
    Posted at 16:33h, 31 December Reply

    Oh my gosh, another wedding!!! Well, it’s kind of your fault for having such beautiful daughters. 😀 Congratulations to her, and happy 2015 to you and the rest of your family! Much love!

    • goodbyevalentino
      Posted at 14:38h, 02 January Reply

      LOL! I Thank you, Ginger……. look forward to catching up with the MSN group in 2015!

  • Becky Fisher
    Posted at 17:09h, 31 December Reply

    Congratulations Sarah! I am so happy for you and your family! As you know, wedding are wonderful yet stressful at times for everyone involved. Enjoy this special time. I look forward to seeing what this year brings to your blog. Best wishes for wonderful New Year!

    • goodbyevalentino
      Posted at 14:39h, 02 January Reply

      Many thanks, Becky for being a faithful Goodbye Valentino reader and congratulations on those beautiful robes!! 🙂

  • Carol Tuntland
    Posted at 17:29h, 31 December Reply

    Happy New Year! You have been an inspiration since I discovered Goodbye Valentino this summer. I love the idea of a rtw fast, but will not do that at this point. Buying some of my clothes (and I love apparel!) frees me to be more creative with the things I make. I also enjoy machine embroidery and rarely make garments including it; maybe in 2015. I interrupted this comment to take a picture of my 2 1/2 year old grandson in a pair of red overalls that I embroidered for my 11 year-old grandson 10 years ago so I do some garment embroidery. I did have a major wake-up call this summer as I cleared my mother’s house of the accumulation of 96 1/2 years. There were MANY unfinished projects and I realized that I, too, have MANY projects to finish soon! I have made a Marcy Tilton skirt that I took to Paris for her ParisTilton trip in November and now have to figure out the next projects. I have the Little Black Dress book and am considering working through that set of dresses. We shall see. Look forward to your next post.

    • goodbyevalentino
      Posted at 14:41h, 02 January Reply

      Thank you, Carolyn! I too, hope to use the LBDress book this year 🙂

  • Chris Johnson
    Posted at 18:11h, 31 December Reply

    Bless you! I am very excited for another RTW fast-year. (Hyphen intended. I cannot believe how quickly the year has passed). I love this community of seamstresses ( notice the word stresses in who we are) and knowing much of what I contemplate, collect, and commiserate are common to others pursuing our craft has been enlightening and breath-taking. A year ago, I could never imagine feeling an online connection with people I only know virtually. Such a gift you have given us. Thank you.

    • goodbyevalentino
      Posted at 14:44h, 02 January Reply

      Congratulations on completing the RTW Fast and thank you for your comment, Chris! When I started a blog I did not have a single online friend and my life has truly been enriched with the many virtual relationships I now have. Who would have thunk it? 😉

  • Margaret Winters
    Posted at 19:02h, 31 December Reply

    Thank you, Sarah, for a wonderful year of RTW fasting — am ready for another! And so thrilled to win the book– thank you!
    Happy New Year!

    • goodbyevalentino
      Posted at 14:45h, 02 January Reply

      Congratulations, Margaret and thank you for the comment! 🙂

  • Barbara gray
    Posted at 20:18h, 31 December Reply

    I love reading your blog and seeing all your stunning clothes, so inspirational. Best wishes for the new year and another gorgeous wedding.

    • goodbyevalentino
      Posted at 14:46h, 02 January Reply

      Many thanks Barbara! I too, look forward another year of sewing 🙂

  • Mary Funt
    Posted at 20:19h, 31 December Reply

    Wonderful news about another wedding. I hope you will create another masterpiece for yourself even if it means needing to do some RTW shopping. I had never heard of GOMI; too bad there are people with nothing better to do. Your posts are full of wonderful and inspiring ideas. I’ll be joining your 2015 fast. Last year’s forced me to get busy on projects, some of which had been planned years ago. I loved shopping in my closet/fabric stash rather than at the mall.

    • goodbyevalentino
      Posted at 14:47h, 02 January Reply

      Thank you so much, Mary! You have made stunningly beautiful clothes and I’m delighted to know you’ll be back 🙂 Happy New Year!

  • Claire
    Posted at 22:08h, 31 December Reply

    Thanks for a wonderful year of thoughtful blogging, sewing and fashion. I fell off the RTW Fast wagon with an online purchase of tee shirts. Having said that, the Fast helped me focus, define the style of clothes I’d like to sew and the sewing approaches that appeal to me. I know sewing will give me more choice and better value, compared to the pricepoint at which I’d buy.
    It was such fun to see the clothes the other Fasters made – so many different styles and there’s nothing like seeing people happy with their choices or learning as they go.
    Your MOB dress was a delight – thanks for sharing. Congratulations on your daughter’s engagement – wishing you, your family and fellow sewers health and happiness for 2015.

    • goodbyevalentino
      Posted at 14:50h, 02 January Reply

      Claire, Many thanks for your thoughtful comment. The RTW Fast will make a person a more thoughtful consumer if nothing else! I too loved the camaraderie of the group in 2014 🙂
      Happy New Year to you too!

  • Sarah Liz
    Posted at 22:13h, 31 December Reply

    What a good idea to remove the stress – mind you, I dare say nearer the time you will feel you should give to daugher 2 what you gave to daughter 1. Time will tell :). I do think, though, that by removing the anxiety it makes sewing easier, therefor more likely to get done. I found that blogging about sewing raised my anxiety levels, but now I am settling down and enjoying sewing again.

    I’ll continue with the RTW fast – as much as anything because I cannot get anything to fit! So it’s not hard to continue.

    • Angela
      Posted at 00:15h, 01 January Reply

      Sarah, I understand completely! A couple days ago I decided to see what was in the stores, try on some things….and was vividly reminded that RTW does NOT fit me well. At all. And my daughter has the same problem, so I want to be able to make more things for her.

      • goodbyevalentino
        Posted at 14:54h, 02 January Reply

        Angela,
        I recently did the same thing and I wanted to drive home and sew. The clothes were cute, but at 5’2″, they did not fit as well as a garment I might sew.
        Thanks for your comment 🙂

        • Angela
          Posted at 22:56h, 07 January Reply

          We are 5′ 9″ – 5′ 10″ – my daughter is built like a model. But I can assure you that RTW is not designed for 5′ 10″ 130 pounds. 🙂 So, we are the opposite problem from you – but I’m sure the frustration is the same!

    • goodbyevalentino
      Posted at 14:52h, 02 January Reply

      So nice to know you’ll join the 2015 RTW Fast Sarah Liz! I agree with you – anxiety can truly cut down on creative living. I look forward to sewing without the pressures I faced last year.
      Many thanks for the comment 🙂

  • Lynn Marsh
    Posted at 22:39h, 31 December Reply

    Happy New Years. I look forward to any upcoming posts this year.

    • goodbyevalentino
      Posted at 14:55h, 02 January Reply

      Thank you so much, Lynn!

  • Angela
    Posted at 23:58h, 31 December Reply

    You’ve had quite the year! I understand not wanting to commit to another RTW fast with everything you have going on… but I will still look forward to seeing what you do make! I am going to join the RTW fast again. While I did hold true and didn’t go out and buy new clothes, I didn’t really make much either and feel like I didn’t really get full benefit of the fast. So, this year I am writing out a tentative plan of things to accomplish and I am determined to make use of all of the sewing things I own.

    • goodbyevalentino
      Posted at 14:56h, 02 January Reply

      So happy to read you’ll be joining the 2015 fast, Angela! It sounds like you’re on top of your game this year too 🙂 🙂

  • Anne McClure
    Posted at 00:47h, 01 January Reply

    Congratulations to your daughter on her engagement. I understand completely what you are saying about the stress of committing to an RTW fast this year. I’m pleased you’re continuing to host. I would like to join in and will contact with photo etc as listed. Happy New Year!

    • goodbyevalentino
      Posted at 12:43h, 02 January Reply

      Many thanks, Anne! I’m delighted to know you’ll be in on the 2015 Fast 🙂

  • Peggy Harper
    Posted at 00:58h, 01 January Reply

    Hi Sarah, I want to tell you how inspiring you have been for the past two years ! You are amazing and have created some incredible garmets! It’s been fun getting to know you and watch your progress. I am so appalled at the cost of high end clothing now, that I am so happy I have decided to sew as much as I possibly can! I think it will help me very much at work by making sure I don’t get so stressed and don’t bring home work! I used to make a lot of my clothing but once I became a systems analyst in an IT dept. it took over my free time too! I let it actually, but no more. I am happy you will host this next RTW fast so we all still get to watch your sewing and learn from it! I learn from all the comments and other blogs too. It amazes me what wonderful and giving sewers are, love you all! Happy New Year!

    • goodbyevalentino
      Posted at 12:42h, 02 January Reply

      Thank you, Peggy! High end clothing can truly drive one to the poor house and I am confident that its possible to sew a comparable wardrobe for much much less 😉 Have fun!

  • Carolina's Callin'
    Posted at 01:14h, 01 January Reply

    It’s been an interesting year in your sewing journey, and I’ve loved that you’ve shared it all with us! Making your MOB dress had to be one of the high points. Talk about pressure! Can’t wait to see what you come up with during 2015! I’ll be looking to you and some of the other wonderful sewists I follow for inspiration to get me back on track…! Now that my hands are better, there are no excuses..lol! Ended 2014 the way I began: working with fleece 🙂 Must expand my horizons!

    Thanks again for all your fun and fabulous posts on your projects. Wonderful to see your successes, and so exciting to see how GBV has grown. You’ve worked hard, you have much to share…and you deserve all the ‘fruits of your labors’ 🙂 Wishing you a 2015 that exceeds all your expectations!

    • goodbyevalentino
      Posted at 12:40h, 02 January Reply

      Many thanks for this nice comment, Cheryl! I’m delighted to know your hands have completely healed and look forward to seeing your creations in 2015 🙂

  • Jackie
    Posted at 02:55h, 01 January Reply

    Your outfits have been better than any RTW, ESPECIALLY your MOB dress. Rethink a 2015 fast!

    • goodbyevalentino
      Posted at 12:38h, 02 January Reply

      Many thanks, Jackie! I plan to sew as much, but I think I’m due for a little shopping 😉

  • Vicki Maiorano
    Posted at 10:04h, 01 January Reply

    Congratulations on a great year!

    • goodbyevalentino
      Posted at 12:37h, 02 January Reply

      Many thanks, Vicki!

  • Sue Bateman
    Posted at 10:48h, 01 January Reply

    Thanks so much Sarah for all the inspiration in 2014. I have enjoyed the challenges and am so inspired that I want to continue for 2015 its great that you are again sponsoring this. Congratulations on your daughters engagement .
    Happy Sewing !

    • goodbyevalentino
      Posted at 12:37h, 02 January Reply

      Thank you, Sue! So happy you’ll continue the RTW Fast. 🙂

  • Kate hampshire
    Posted at 10:49h, 01 January Reply

    Congratulations! I have really enjoyed your blog posts as you seem to be one of the very few sewers’ of a certain age’. Whilst I enjoy reading the blogs from the young, slim bloggers who can wear anything, yours speaks to me of chic sophistication and inspiration. I have also had an RTW fast but I’m still struggling to make the perfect fit trouser, so might resort to buying again.
    Looking forward to your posts, happy new year!

    • goodbyevalentino
      Posted at 12:36h, 02 January Reply

      Many thanks, Kate! The first thing I intend to buy is a pair of jeans, something I’ve yet to master. 😉

  • Kim Hood
    Posted at 12:12h, 01 January Reply

    Well done on making some exceptional dresses this year. I am sure you will do it again for your second daughter’s wedding!
    I was surprised that I made it through 2014 only buying undies and one commemorative sports top so I consider my RTW fast to be a big success. It made me really consider what I needed in my wardrobe and whilst not committing to another year I know that I will probably never buy clothing in the same way again.
    Thank you!

    • goodbyevalentino
      Posted at 12:34h, 02 January Reply

      Kim, Congratulations on completing the 2014 RTW Fast! I agree that the fast truly makes one a more mindful consumer 😉
      I’m deliberating the MoB dress and will keep readers posted. Many thanks for the comment.

  • Joen
    Posted at 16:27h, 01 January Reply

    I certainly plan to sew more this year ordered a new machine with my bonus check!! Started to plan a few items and will try to get more organized with my planning and sewing in 2015. I too have my daughter’s wedding in September, but I’m not quite as ambitious as you I have ordered my MOB dress!LOL

    • goodbyevalentino
      Posted at 12:32h, 02 January Reply

      Smart woman, Joen! I’m deliberating but will not pressure myself into another uncomfortable situation. Congrats on the new machine 🙂

  • Heather Myers
    Posted at 18:22h, 01 January Reply

    Congratulations on the coming wedding! You are wise, I think, to remove any stress and let the fun of sewing bubble up as it may.

    I love your inspirational posts! With my first quarter 2015 career change I expect to sew more in 2015, so will be joining the RTW fast again after purchasing a couple cotton t- necks. Thanks and the best in 2015 to everyone!

    • goodbyevalentino
      Posted at 12:30h, 02 January Reply

      Love your expression, Heather! Indeed I will let the fun of sewing bubble up as it may. Great to read you will be joining the 2015 RTW Fast. 🙂

  • Linda M
    Posted at 20:32h, 01 January Reply

    Thank you for hosting the RTW fast again, I followed along with you last year and would like to join this year! Congratulations to your daughter, and your success with your blog!

    • goodbyevalentino
      Posted at 12:28h, 02 January Reply

      Many thanks, Linda! Glad to know you’ll be joining the RTW Fast 🙂

  • helen
    Posted at 21:32h, 01 January Reply

    I’ve really enjoyed being part of the RTW Fast 2014 and will join again for 2015. Happy New Year!

    • goodbyevalentino
      Posted at 12:27h, 02 January Reply

      Wonderful, Helen!

  • Nancy Settle-Cannell
    Posted at 23:51h, 01 January Reply

    Dear Sarah – Happy New Year. I’m sad that you will not continue the RTW fast but I do understand. Besides, you’ll never be able to top 2014’s fabulous MOB dress . I do hope you will continue to post your sewing adventures as I look so forward to seeing what you come up with and you have so inspired me. Although I do not have a blog, I will take up the RTW challenge for 2015. After sewing my own clothes this year, I’m also finding that RTW doesn’t fit me to my satisfaction. I just can’t shop for clothes anymore as I see the price of things and say, but I could make this with better fit, better quality and for much less money. I really appreciated your email to me earlier this year when I became discouraged – you helped me so much that I sprang for a new sewing machine this Christmas and have already made myself a really nice blouse thanks to making a muslin and ensuring that the final garment would actually fit me perfectly. Congratulations to your lovely daughter on her upcoming wedding and enjoy the fun this year will bring to you and your expanding family. All the very best to you.

    • goodbyevalentino
      Posted at 12:27h, 02 January Reply

      Many thanks for your lovely comment, Nancy, and congratulations on the new sewing machine! Don’t be sad – I really need to buy a few clothes and believe a little shopping will improve my sewing 🙂 I look forward to the year and wish you a wonderful year of sewing!

  • Peggy Fehncke
    Posted at 12:10h, 02 January Reply

    We understand too much stress and demands on your time. Do keep sewing and posting your projects even if you don’t sew as much. A great source of inspiration. My vote is to make your MOB dress. It would be fabulous. Post a picture after the big day so we know what you decided.

    • goodbyevalentino
      Posted at 12:22h, 02 January Reply

      Hi Peggy!
      I plan to sew as I always have. I haven’t decided about the MoB dress yet and might make it if all comes together for an enjoyable experience. I’ll let readers know once I make a decision. Many thanks for your comment 🙂

  • Tia Dia
    Posted at 18:11h, 02 January Reply

    Congratulations on your daughter’s engagement! It’s been a busy year for you, and you certainly hit the ball out of the park with that gorgeous MoB dress. I love your Vogue 1303, too. I think you’ve made a good decision taking a RTW fast break, especially with another wedding to plan. Happy New Sewing Year!

    • goodbyevalentino
      Posted at 13:08h, 03 January Reply

      Thank you, Tia Dia! Another busy year to follow but isn’t that the way of life? I look forward to following you in 2015 🙂

    • Angela
      Posted at 16:11h, 07 January Reply

      Hello!

      I took a peek at your blog – you are so skilled! What beautiful garments you have created for you and your daughters (and a cute doggie!). I’m looking forward to following your blog. Oh, I had to laugh when you described yourself as the introvert’s introvert. That described me perfectly! I think we would get along beautifully IRL.

  • Cindy Aymes
    Posted at 04:42h, 03 January Reply

    I love the Vogue 1303 on you! You just look so happy in it!! And I know that if you do decide to make another MOB dress, it will be just as beautiful as the last! But relax a bit, you’ve had a great year of sewing triumphs, so maybe it’s time to do a little shopping! Enjoy your RTW break!

    • goodbyevalentino
      Posted at 13:08h, 03 January Reply

      Thank you so much, Cindy! I look forward to both sewing and shopping a bit in 2015 😉

  • Ebi P.
    Posted at 14:24h, 03 January Reply

    Congratulations on all your 2014 high points, and double congratulations for your daughter’s engagement! What a joyous time for your family.

  • Fiona M
    Posted at 21:32h, 03 January Reply

    You have made some stunning things in 2014 and, in particular, your MOB dress was a triumph!
    I will continue to sew as many of my own clothes as I am able to in 2015, and I thank you for the inspiration and encouragement.
    I look forward to seeing what you make this year.

  • Roses of Paris
    Posted at 03:56h, 04 January Reply

    Congratulations on your daughter’s engagement!

    Excited about participating in your 2015 RTW fast x

  • Alethia
    Posted at 01:48h, 05 January Reply

    Sarah, thank you so much for hosting the 2014 RTW FAST and allowing me to take part. I survived w/o purchasing any RTW! I will be sewing along with the 2015 RTW Fast as well. BTW, congratulations on your daughter’s engagement!

  • Madeline
    Posted at 04:21h, 05 January Reply

    Thank you so much for being such an inspiration. I was not able to sew as I found time at a premium when my mother became ill at the beginning of 2014. I did not purchase not even a pair of underwear as I kept my fast. I have been recycling old clothes and wearing scrubs, which my profession allows me 😉 Kind of a cop out, but what is a girl to do! I am going to continue the fast in 2015. I figure I will have to sew or I will have nothing to wear. So you keep inspiring us and I am sure with more time I will finally have something to wear. I just love all you make. Thanks

    • Angela
      Posted at 16:05h, 07 January Reply

      Madeline – I know exactly what you mean! I am also committed to continuing the fast into 2015, and either I get busy sewing or I will have nothing to wear. NO ONE would ever look at my closet and associate it with a middle-aged woman with the means to buy clothing. GULP! Yet, I look at RTW and it simply doesn’t fit well (consistently), looks bad, is poorly made, or costs an obscene amount of money. Here’s to our success in 2015!

      Maybe (hint hint) Sarah will decide to do another fast in 2016…… either way, I’m looking forward to what see makes this year.

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