I knew I wanted to make a new pair of Ruby Overalls in preparation for our sale this weekend but I was having a hard time choosing fabric! Ruby can be made in so many different fabrics, from lightweight rayon to heavier cotton twill. I was debating about what I wanted, standing in front of my mirror while holding up various options. Solid or print? Drapey or structured? I finally held up this gorgeous black and cream linen and I was sold. This is it!
I made view A of Ruby and the only changes I made were to lengthen the pattern for my height. Otherwise, Ruby is easy to fit and pretty quick to sew up! I had been waiting for the perfect project for this gorgeous linen and I’m so glad I finally got to use it.
I cut the pattern out flat so that I could pattern match the stripes across the sides and the bib. This was pretty easy to do with Ruby because the legs are relatively straight and the bib is, too. All the straight lines make pattern matching much easier!
This linen is pretty lightweight so I took my time while sewing and made sure to do the staystitching steps. I also interfaced the top of the bib facing as well as the top of the bib on the outer fabric. A little extra structure across the top of the bib is nice in this linen.
When I got to the elastic back step, I put it in and then thought “maybe these would look better with a full elastic waist”. It’s really easy to opt for that with Ruby because the elastic channel already goes all the way around the overalls! I took out my back elastic and swapped it for a full one. I’m so happy with the result! I think the cinch in the front helps to break up the linear plaid a bit and offer a nice breezy look to this pair of Rubys.
I love how these turned out and I think they will be so fun to wear in the Spring/Summer. I can even see styling them in the winter with tights or leggings underneath for some added warmth. I think my favourite part of this design is the elastic waist. I love how it cinches it in but is really comfortable at the same time. Perfect for weight fluctuation!
I forgot how much I enjoy sewing this pattern! It’s really satisfying and fun. I hope you give it a try, too!
