Briar Shirt and Maritime Shorts

I know Labor Day is only a few days away but I am feverishly sewing up some of my summer fabric.  With Kaitlyn's wedding and several other family things this summer, June and July saw limited sewing from me.  I am making up for lost time.

A new pair of Maritime Shorts was on my summer to-do list.  I had this great twill from  Style Maker Fabric.  I have made these shorts twice before (see here).  The gingham pair are still an all time favorite!  

The only thing I did on this pair was to straighten the leg a bit.  I have lengthened the shorts but my line went in a bit for a curve.  I wanted more of a straight leg.  

Here is the back pocket, I used a buttonhole twist in a darker tan for the topstitching

I put two snaps in the waistband using my Snap Press

My top is the Briar Top but with a straight hem.  Previous makes are here 

After making my latest Briar, I decide I really like the fit and feel of this top.  It is very similar to shape of the Plantain but it just feels so much better.  I have made the Plantain several times  but they  just don't feel as good as the Briar.  Mainly in the shoulders.  I passed all of my Briars but the green/black/white stripe onto Kailtyn and she loves them.  Especially these two

I do think on the shorter version, I need to go down a size in the waist and hips.  It is a bit loose, I think the longer hem, makes the Briar hang differently.  

I used Mood Fabrics' Metallic Stripe Knit  but I used the wrong side. 

Here is the metallic right side, and it was just too much sparkle for me and a casual shirt.

My pre-Labor Day garments are a success and I know I will wear and wear them.  They are great basics to mix and match with other pieces in my wardrobe.  Plus, with summer coming to an end, these will be nice to have to start next summer!  See really I am just planning ahead.

Thanks for your opinions on the maxi dress, the ties will be removed and the elastic tightened up.  I really appreciate your time to comments and help.  I agree with so many of you, the ties seem little girl and need to go.  Thanks again.