Before the Nettie bodysuit pattern by Closet Case Files, I really had no idea how much I needed a bodysuit (actually multiple bodysuits) in my wardrobe. It’s an ideal bottom layer to wear with pants or skirts. The trim silhouette just can’t be beat. It’s great for showing off a waistband and a waistline for that matter. I think a bodysuit would also be great for layering. I don’t need too many layers in LA but I can imagine it being a great winter base layer, minimal bulk but extra core warmth.

My last couple of Nettie's (here and here) have been a little loose at the waist so I adjusted the size by grading down at the waist and hips to between a 10 and 12. The tricky thing with knit fabric is that there are different amounts of stretch. So while the last Netties felt looser this fabric feels a lot more snug. The fit is pretty good now and I’ll continue to use this modification for future bodysuits.

DIY Wardrobe, Nettie Bodysuit and Nita Wrap Skirt | Sew DIY

I made this bodysuit a few months ago and can’t remember where I bought the fabric. Perhaps at Joann’s? It’s a basic 4-way stretch. Not too thin. Not too thick. Sometimes, it feels like it's hardest to find the most basic fabric. Like fleece back sweatshirt fabric. How is not in every color, in every store?

Here, I’m wearing the bodysuit with a mini Nita Wrap Skirt made from brown corduroy. I’d had the corduroy in my stash for years and I’m so glad that I used it for this skirt. The length and the fabric have a 70s vibe that I really love. I can totally picture Ali McGraw wearing this skirt with a turtleneck, tights and boots. A few of my pattern testers also made the Nita Wrap Skirt in corduroy and I have a feeling that this fabric is making a comeback. Which gets me thinking, I’d love to have a pair of flared corduroy pants. How awesome would that be?

I took these photos way back at the beginning of February and it's taken me this long to put together the post. I put in so many hours into creating and launching my latest pattern that it’s been hard for me to motivate myself to do new blog posts or even sew new things. This last weekend I didn’t even turn on the sewing machine once. I did cut out a new blouse but I usually spend 10 times the amount of time sewing. I think I’ll come out of my cocoon soon and feel a little more energized.

The bodysuit has quickly become a staple in my wardrobe. I recently converted my teal Nettie dress into a bodysuit. I never wore the dress but I’ve already worn the bodysuit and I’m sure I’ll wear it a lot more. This weekend I even ordered some navy fabric for another bodysuit. I’m thinking I need to do elbow length sleeves and a scoop back. I might be getting a little obsessed. :) If you're liking this look or wondering what else you can pair with the Nita Wrap Skirt read my roundup of five pattern pairings. And if you don't have the skirt pattern, you can pick one up here. Happy sewing!

DIY Velvet Bodysuit

Ariane Bodysuit by Seamwork

Nettie Bodysuit and Nita Wrap Skirt