Optimatium in Denim (Part 1)
![](https://lizhaywood.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/IMG_8690-shortlist-1024x768.jpg)
A conversation with my tech editor last week, combined with the happenstance of surplus-to-requirements denim in the house, let to cutting out a denim Optimatium pattern on the weekend.
The Optimatium dress is a zero waste pattern which appeared in Tauko magazine last year, and is now a pdf pattern in extended sizes. The pattern is in my shop – please enjoy 25% off until June 26th.
![](https://lizhaywood.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/back-and-front-sketch-shorter-1024x644.jpg)
The denim is Japanese heavyweight 10.5oz with a little bit of stretch. Apparently it’s ex-Celine deadstock (the one they used to make their $2000 jeans?). It’s a bit too thick and heavy to make a dress with, so I tweaked the pattern to make a coat version.
Somewhere in my memory I recalled red D-rings, and managed to find them. We also had red topstitching thread, so the plan is to have red topstitching and a belt that closes with the red D-rings.
![](https://lizhaywood.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/IMG_8704-shortlist-1024x768.jpg)
I cut it out, using a lowered ironing board to extend the width of our kitchen table…
![](https://lizhaywood.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/IMG_8689-shortlist-1024x768.jpg)
…and started sewing, and got as far as what I call “the coat hanger stage”, where it’s together enough to hang up on a coat hanger. No topstitching yet.
![](https://lizhaywood.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/IMG_8720-shortlist-817x1024.jpg)
There are still a few decisions to make: what to do with the pockets (in-seam, patch…or both?), and what to do with the pleated cuffs, as I made the wrists wider.
In case you’re thinking of doing this yourself, I’ll list the changes I made to the pattern next week when it’s finished.
Come back next week for the big reveal!
Dear Liz, That looooks sooo good! Can‘t wait for the big reveal! best, Giul
Thanks, pretty happy with how it’s going 🙂
Looks fabulous! Love the colour!
Well done….
Thank you Anthea – this denim is a dream to work with!