This is one of the nicest and quickest shirts I’ve made. I moved my topstitches closer to the edges and it gives it an elegant finish. I also added the button downs for the collar, which I usually leave out for a more casual look. I wanted this shirt to be dressed up or down, but always eye-catching.

The fit around the collar is a little odd, but it’s California so I wear it unbuttoned, plus it’s too small to button around my chubby neck. Hopefully once I start drafting my own shirt pattern, I’ll be able to get a collar that fits better, then maybe wear a tie once in a while.
That looks so good! I’m so jealous. I’ve been wanting to start making my own clothes for years. You are really inspiring
Thanks old friend. It’s worth the effort to learn, and even more worth the time to master. Something you can always be working to improve. The problem I’ve found is a lack of good information for men’s fashion. Most of the patterns and craft store publications are what might be called, “boyfriend gifts”… outside of shirts it’s mostly robes and boxers. Hardly any jackets or cool fashions.
I might put together a walk through, and perhaps a page for resources and blogroll. I really like the blog “Male Pattern Boldness” (www.malepatternboldness.blogspot.com) written by a fellow seamster. He uses vintage patterns a lot, especially stuff from the 70’s he’ll update or modify.