Here's some more inspiration with this casual look by Eileen Fisher. This is a crossover tunic made with wool crepe. this top sells for ~$200. You could get a similar look with V Neck Tunic pattern by Loes Hinse Design. The picture to the left is shown with narrow legged pants but for fall similar looks are being shown with straight legged pants.
Today, I found this lovely silk/elastane georgette front tie blouse from Diane von Furstenburg for $185. This top is looks very much like Sharon's Blouse View 2 in the Silhouettes patterns by Peggy Sagers. This pattern comes with 2 different sleeves lengths and 3 different front styles. Recommended fabrics are knits, woven fabrics, corduory, denim, cottons, wools, silks, or any garmet fabric.
I have found more inspiration on the Neiman Marcus site. The tee to the left is a raglan sleeved tee with a twist. It has a smocked yoke with puffed sleeves. It sells for $55. Really, really cute. It is by XCVI. It would be fairly easy to recreate using Loes Hinse Boatneck Top or Textile Studio Santa Monica top as a starting point. Another idea for all of the ladies (and men) who enjoy smocking. Check out this company's website. There are more ideas for shirring.
Here is a top by St John's Sport. Really simple idea for using ribbon to enhance a very simple top. This top sells for $495. Any basic tee could be used to make a similar look.
Check out this lovely silk skirt by Harari Mitsa. It appears to be a slim gore skirt that starts flaring just above the knees. This skirt sells for $395. You could recreate this look using the View B version or maybe View E of Gore Skirt by Loes Hinse.
Here's another example of a dress that is similar to the Tank Dress Group by Loes Hinse Design. The dress to the left is from the fall collection of Eskandar, made of linen, and sells for $550. This looks very similar to the top of the View B dress with the bottom from the View A dress. The shawl would be easy to create with a length of fabric and fringing the ends. The dress only takes about 3 yards of fabric to create. Extra fabric would be required to two-toned effect, shawl, and cowl. Have fun!
I do enjoy checking the website at Neiman Marcus. There are so many great details on the clothes. The example at left is by the company 3.1 Philip Lim and called "Diamond Smocked Blouse". The details are a jewel neckline with a smocked yoke and front button placket, bishop sleeves, and smocked cuffs. It is 100% silk and sells for $425.00. Personally, I don't know how to smock at this time but I wish that I did. However, for those that smock what a wonderful idea for an adult top. Oh, by the way, the pants are high-waisted with slant pockets and a front zip.
