Another metallic + wool combo:
(All images, Style.com)
The pattern is McCall's 5661, view D, with the pleated neckline, which was shockingly easy to do:
Close-up of the pleated neckline
The fabric is a textured, reptilian-looking print from WinMil Fabrics in Boston. It must be some sort of polyester blend. It has a slight lining on the inside that almost looks like interfacing, so it is medium-weight: not flimsy, but not really stiff, either. Here is a close up of the texture of the material, and the vintage buttons from my button jar:
The major negative of this pattern is the button enclosure; they were easier to insert than a zipper, but help is needed to do up the back (or, I'm just not flexible enough!). A more-experienced sewer could probably figure out how to insert a zipper. I rather like the look of the buttons, though.
The pattern had an all-in-one back/armscye/neckline facing, which made the pattern relatively quick to sew.
Interior, showing the combined back/armscye/neckline facing
I think I will get a lot of wear out of this top at the holidays. I need to find a green lizard print to make a skirt similiar to this one:
Topped with a neutral cardi and belt, wouldn't this be the perfect office holiday party outfit?