Bows or Pockets? You Decide! Plus Diving into a Swimsuit with Style

#fridaysews #swimsuit #vintagesewingpatterns
Help me decide! Thin bow vs. wide bow vs. piped pockets vs plain pockets!
The patterns I mentioned:
Simplicity 4920 dress from 1962 or 1963
Simplicity 9012 vest from 1992
Jalie 1314 Racerback Tank: jalie.com/products/racerback-...
McCall's 5380 Laura Ashley sundress from 2007
McCall's 6017 Laura Ashley sundress from 2010
McCall's 8084 Laura Ashley skirts from 1982
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[@kathiebeauchamp6905]

So cute. I like it with the bow and no pockets

[@cindy7702]

I love the piped pockets over the bow but its what you like best.. you sewing is always so inspiring.. thank you Jen

[@karenegeberg6007]

I like the large bow. Happy sewing!

[@user-id4yv8js6c]

I vote for the piped pockets. Looks great!

[@catherinep7923]

The dress is so cute. I like it with the pockets--it much more slimming than the bows on your stomach.

[@omegabrooks-wy3bw]

I especially loved you message at the end. Amen!

[@aribella6913]

I love, and am always encouraged by words from the Bible. Thanks.

[@MamawShelley]

Small bow and no pockets. Cute dress!

[@KO-vw7it]

I like the pipes pockets and the skinny bow together 🎉

[@lynnshepard7485]

Pretty dress! For piped pockets, you might try piping that is closer to the color in the fabric, or even self piping. There’s less contrast, which may please you better. Try all the things! 😘

[@suzettesingson1002]

Pretty dress ❤ I like the piped pockets.

[@suzanneboucher5270]

I love the wide bow , looks very nice on you 😊

[@randeeelizondo5807]

Love the piped pockets.

[@carmensalome]

I have Laura Ashley 6071 too. I made a bathing suit a couple years of the same fabric. It looks great on you! I love Charity Gayle. She and CeCe Winans are on constant play in the sewing room and throughout the house.

[@marciakistner8977]

I vote for the wide bow, no pockets. Looks vintage! Those are great pockets, but they are too much with the bow. The dress is so BEAUTIFUL! And the vest is so cute. ❤

[@dianapower-qo8gy]

Love the plain pockets, I also like the length of the dress on you, and certainly a do again dress, also like the waist coat with the white skirt, will also look nice with white trousers of any length. Clever you making swimwear, I never have 😢 Adam has a big heart, for likewise people, as the saying goes you reap what you sew (sow) thankyou for starting Friday Sews once again regards Diana from NZ 🎉❤🎉❤

[@SuzySunshine]

I vote for no piping pockets for this particular fabric. My thinking is it distracts from the beauty of the slimming lines of the dress. In a more patterned fabric, yes, pipe them. These are opinions only. Follow you heart. Adam has the most awesome taste in fabrics! Whatever you make is going to be gorgeous in that fabric! 💐Happy belated birthday. Bernadette

[@TodayinJensSewingRoom]

I totally agree!

[@Silver_Threads_Sewing]

I vote for wide bow and piped pockets! But, I love them all. ❤ Diann

[@robynlaszlo6128]

Love the piped pockets great swimsuit 😊😊😊

[@dorenekemp710]

I like the pockets, piped or not. Makes you look slimmer. Pretty dress!

[@genniferellis8489]

Love the pockets it looks nicer

[@dizzyquiltsandsews]

Love the dress with the piped pockets!

[@bluegrassdreams2seams510]

Hi, Jen! Piped pockets, skinny bow😊 I love your vest with the white skirt and your swimsuit❤️❤️

[@bluegrassdreams2seams510]

Jen, I just sent you a picture on FB. Goes right along with you video on vintage dress.

[@TodayinJensSewingRoom]

Love that dress in the window! All that piping, reminds me of a dress I thrifted that was a big designer, can't remember who but man I loved it. It had that same big bow with piping.

[@user-pp8yo9fn6j]

I NEEDED THIS! THANK YOU!

[@theseamstressatthecottage]

No bow and piped pockets ❤, I love that pattern, I still have my granny's in my stach.Oeh, I love the vest top! The swimsuit is really nice! I also prefer lining my swimsuit in the back.I also baste my elastic for swimsuits it is worth taking the time to do it . Oeh, the fabric that Adam sent you is so beautiful 😍. Always fun to spend time in your sewing room! Love the little bit of Jesus! It warms the cockles of my hart. I have also been listening to that song on repeat.

[@TodayinJensSewingRoom]

That is awesome!

[@andreayucis2008]

Love the green dress! I like the wider bow and the plain pockets(not piped). I think the dark button on the pocket is enough contrast for me. I’m sure whatever you choose to do will be fine and look good. 💕

[@teenajohnson1688]

Thank you so much for the scripture and the message at the end of your video. I'm currently experiencing several very difficult situations with lots of tears being shed. I know the power of the Lord but your words helped strengthen me. Love you and thank you.

[@TodayinJensSewingRoom]

Wonderful!

[@ellastroupe5754]

I really like the pockets without piping. What a fun dress!

[@beezwiz123]

What an amazing song! Words I really needed to hear today. Thank you!

[@TodayinJensSewingRoom]

So glad!

[@lorioverman1668]

Cute pattern but I like the unpiped pockets. I agree I think the pattern would be very nice in a nice fabric. Keep up the great videos. So enjoy your your channel😊

[@dixyschu951]

my vote is for piped pockets- looks vintage

[@judithglavas9030]

I vote for the wide bow with no pockets.

[@jamesbrown-om5bu]

I like the wide bow best. Like Trish says it captures the vintage vibe! Cheryl 🇨🇦

[@alexandrarose1826]

So much anointing on your word today Jen. Bless you and thank you so much. It really spoke to my heart 🥹

[@pammihicklin2298]

A Little Bit Of Jesus Is Always What I Need. Thank you, Jen. ❤

[@suzannewilman7634]

Loved your encouraging word ❤❤

[@sewndebisdream6953]

Bows are very cute on your dress.

[@helganeufeld230]

Thank you for those powerful words. I needed them. Also, great sewing

[@user-wu7sv6hr7v]

Oh, boy - if I have a hard time making a decision for myself, I know I couldn't make one for you, LOL! That said, I think the pockets really give it the vintage look, even more when they are piped, but you are the one who is going to have to live with the dress and I'm sure you'll make the decision that is good for you. Thanks for the "little bit of Jesus," who always knows what is best for us in the things that count!

[@normahalliburton2908]

Great video Jen, I really liked the swimsuit. I am not sure about the dress, I like both options so I am not much good. Wish you lots of luck in deciding, hopefully you will show us the finished dress to see which you choose. Take care x

[@cherrie2597]

It looks the best with no bow and non-piped pockets.

[@DebsWay]

Here's my 2 cents for what it's worth : I prefer the wider bow on the dress by itself (no pockets); and then when you make another dress (you said you would), I would go with the non-piped pockets only. In other words, I wouldn't put the bow and pockets on the same dress. NOW what do YOU prefer?

[@TodayinJensSewingRoom]

Actually I phrased the whole thing wrong. I meant just one thing - either the wide bow, OR the narrow bow, OR the pockets piped or not. I think I misspoke and everyone thinks I want to combine a pocket and a bow. When I said "I like them all" what I meant was that I liked each separate option. I should have fixed that in editing, so no wonder the confusion! I think I prefer the pockets, because the bow just seems to be unbalanced as the skirt isn't that full. The pockets bring down that waistline and give the pleats more of a time to shine. I think I'm going with the pockets (no bow). But if I make it again in a more fancy fabric, I'll definitely do the bow. Something like a taffeta or anything with more body, really, would be more full on the bottom and would balance the waistline bow (wide). So thanks Deb, I think I'll just reverse your thoughts and see how I fare. Bring on the opinions! xox

[@pennyhanson2598]

Hi Jen, I’m just catching up - I’m so glad you had a lovely birthday, with lovely gifts, especially the batik from Adam! The swimming costume and both of the vests (or waistcoats, as we call them) are super! You’ve probably finished the green dress by now but I might have made the skinny bow lie flat between the seams, possibly edged with piping, to match the piped pockets or even piped around the sleeve or neckline. But that’s a whole lot of faff! Kind regards from Penny x 🎂🇬🇧😊💕

[@socarole66]

By now everyone has given you advice on the dress but I have to say it's gorgeous! For me and you know I say my mind (😂) it's the big bow that is the best and I know you like pockets but it's better without. The piped pockets look like eyes to me 🙈 😂. The waistcoat with the white skirt is just wonderful. Wow I wish I had a slim back like you without all the rolls, I need to get my arm mended so I can swim. That is obviously the secret 👏🏼 xxxx❤xxxx

[@TodayinJensSewingRoom]

You are so kind and I hope you look closely and see that it's just the camera angle - oh, the back and arms! Swimming helps but won't fix it all. You have nothing to worry about, you look amazing!

[@2joanier]

Nonpiped pockets

[@lindaladner4949]

I vote piped picket and no bow. So cute.

[@jankerslake5813]

Non piped pockets for me - looks the most subtle and classy

[@kaydavis6943]

Jen, I’ve just recently found you & love watching you! I used to sew a lot then life got in the way. Just purchased one of your vintage patterns & can’t wait to start.

[@TodayinJensSewingRoom]

Welcome!!

[@joyceburns7769]

Thank you..

[@sewquest2349]

I like a neutral piping on the pockets. No bow.

[@cynthiabell5652]

The wide bow does it for me. It's just the right finishing touch.

[@CarolAnnSews]

Hi Jen, I'd choose the unpiped pockets.

[@connienash3666]

I like the piped pockets and smaller bow on this dress, however if you make it again in a nicer fabric it would really be nice with the bigger bow without pockets and would make a beautiful special occasion dress. Every time I sew pockets I always think of you Jen! TY for the little bit of Jesus ❤❤❤

[@TodayinJensSewingRoom]

You are so kind. Thanks!

[@kpcntry]

I vote for the skinny bow & pocket without piping.

[@janefranklin33]

I would put pockets with bows at the top!

[@lanaashley835]

I'm probably too late to the party,...... but I like the small bow , it has a slenderizing sillouette. I actually like them all Jen. Make 3 dresses so you can feature each style feature on 3 different fabrics. You could probably just shop your stash!😊

[@michellelemesurier3106]

As always.. thanks for sharing Jen 😊.. that is such and awesome song.. my husband plays worship.. and a friend of his often chooses this song for their group.. I find that even in the roughest of days.. just saying the name Jesus brings me peace 🙏.. my song of the week.. the new Toby Mac song.."nothin sweeter".. so good... 😁

[@RunningWithScissors-th8jo]

I like the wide bow and no pockets. I appreciate the Little Bit of Jesus. ❤️🤗

[@trishsh5007]

Just my two cents, I like the skinny bow and the piped pockets for a nice daytime dress. If it was going to be an evening dress, I’d just go for the skinny bow or the pockets. I think the faced pockets does give a vintage vibe, and definitely the black piping and button.

[@tinkthestrange]

I like the piped pockets, but maybe in a lighter color

[@teresasanders4266]

Please give us a demo of your technique for swimwear elastic application

[@TodayinJensSewingRoom]

I will work on that. Especially since I wore that suit that very day (later) and decided I should make more.

[@terrilee6849]

The piped pockets is my choice. I think they are very pretty.

[@gisellejones1139]

I like the pockets....more neutral piping....smaller bow

[@annestuart1150]

Liked the pockets, piped or not.

[@pinkysfarm461]

I loved your little bit of Jesus today. I can see the conviction just flowing from you! Also loving the swimsuit! That looks professional! Love and miss you!!!❤❤❤❤ your BFF!!!

[@TodayinJensSewingRoom]

Same. And bow vs. pockets. You know I do love that bow. But on me, it cuts me in half and the bottom doesn't seem to have the fullness to balance it. I think I'm going with the pockets. Sorry! You know I love you! Come down and enjoy a lightning show! 😘🤗❤️🐐🐓❤️

[@ElizabethAllen-c6d]

I like the piped pockets

[@ChristineSewsALot]

I am team baste too! It does save time. Adam has great taste.

[@TodayinJensSewingRoom]

In the end it really does. I need to make more swimsuits, since I'm getting better and better. Need those wins - xoxox

[@teresasanders4266]

When I first saw it behind you I thought it was a vintage apron

[@TodayinJensSewingRoom]

LOL!

[@kimberlymay1145]

Unpiped pockets

[@connietrefzger1463]

Piped pockets

[@robinduggins2561]

THANK YOU JESUS!!!

[@lindat905]

None piped pockets its really cute

[@maryrames6247]

Adorable dress Jen! The pockets look better because the bow seems to cut you in half at the waist. I really like the un-piped pockets best. I can't really tell what color buttons you are using for the pockets? Have you thought about using a vintage darker or emerald green vintage looking buttons for the pockets? Just a suggestion. Beautiful top/vest and skirt...LOVE that look on you 💖 Nice swim suit on you too! Great pattern 👍

[@TodayinJensSewingRoom]

THANK YOU. I totally agree about the pockets. I do love the bow, but I think it cuts me in half at a bad place. I think I'll probably just do the unpiped pockets - easier in the long run and I don't have navy piping. I used navy buttons because I have them, but I'll see what I have in green also. I think you're the only person that's agreed with my initial thoughts. I appreciate you!

[@maryrames6247]

@@TodayinJensSewingRoom Happy to help lend an "eye" as another view to what will be a fabulous and adorable dress for you ☺ Happy sewing Jen!

[@heathern9051]

I vote for pockets with no piping

[@user-pp8yo9fn6j]

🥰🥰🥰

[@kathleenmuller6218]

Piped pockets 👍🏻

[@4016kiwi]

Skinny bow and piped pockets!

[@soniamiller5452]

Piped pockets ❤

[@debbiestuttgen1825]

bow for sure

[@helraymc]

Piped pockets!

[@lavadajenkins2955]

I'm thinking piped pockets.

[@aribella6913]

Pockets for my pick.

[@jmanonmakes]

I like the piped pockets best. And thank you for A Little Bit of Jesus.

[@vernakg]

I think the piping on the pocket and put the bow in the back but what do I know... I sew but don't have videos to make an opinion.

[@maryellenoneill9061]

Hi Jen, I just realized this was from last week so you’ve probably already decided on the finish for the dress but my two cents is… the piping is very bold and really sticks out if that’s the only place you use it….perhaps add some elsewhere to balance the look?!? How difficult was it to add to that pattern? I have a vintage pattern I made “as is” which is way too small for me but I love the look. They aren’t straight seams so, I’m not sure how to tackle it. Your dress is very cute .😊. I love the vest top with the white skirt, it looks very chic/ elegant. Thanks for sharing

[@cindysparks8209]

Skinny bow lowered some or piped pockets.

[@JustPlainLaine]

Your "few words about Jesus" today brought tears to my eyes. I love that song, I love what those words mean. They are so powerful. And He is Life. I have added those you mentioned to my prayer list. ❤

[@patriciaoswalt6464]

Skinny bow!

[@carolynreed2688]

Not a fan of the piped pockets. I love that song! I am now going to a church that I feel I can be a little more demonstrative. I also grew up in a very uptight church.

[@TodayinJensSewingRoom]

It's funny how it just starts to come out of you, especially when no one is around!

[@maryann1187]

In-seam pockets with front waist bow. Otherwise, it would be too much visually.

[@SewAndTellwithDori]

I love the song I Speak Jesus!!!!!! 🙏🏻🙏🏻 An amazing song! What a Spirit-filled song!!!

[@juliadavidovich-kn8jh]

Hi, I really enjoy your channel. You mentioned you sent a PDF pattern off to the printer. I’d like to do the same. Can you share what printer?

[@TodayinJensSewingRoom]

PDF Plotting.

[@jancampen7770]

Skinny bow, no pockets!

[@suzannetofts8204]

Definitely get rid of the bows and add unpiped pockets.

[@TodayinJensSewingRoom]

Yes. This is my plan. THANK YOU

[@tinawilson5020]

Praise the Lord Jesus! Amen Jen 🙏 l like the dress with the big bow and the dress with no piping on the pockets. 🤗🥰

[@funniful]

No bow. Piped pockets. Dye hair green to match dress. 😜

[@TodayinJensSewingRoom]

😂

[@dorenekemp710]

Love your Jesus words! I love Jesus.❤

[@joanneblair2087]

I Am a fan of the wide bow and not the pockets. To me, it looks more professional. With the vest would a sway back adjustment eliminate the back gathers? I love the song I Speak Jesus.

[@dimples7334]

✝️🙏🇺🇸

[@Lorraine-yy8ey]

A little bit of Jesus or a whole lot of Jesus -- I'm good with it, Jen. Really really good with it. Your dress looks great on you! I loved all the options. They are all so dang cute and suit you perfectly. Peace of Christ to you, love.

[@Silver_Threads_Sewing]

Great sewing! Great patterns and GREAT is the name of Jesus! There is power! Thank you for speaking Jesus into all of us ❤ Diann