A Breathable Girly Shirt, Peplum Style

This sewing project has been swirling around in my mind for some time. I own three shirts that have been creeping up on me. They're too short for comfort, exposing too much skin, especially when leaning over the handlebars.

Photo credits: Fashion 1900, Ali Express

I've always been attracted to the old style bathing suits along with little girl dresses. One is too old fashioned and the other too cutesy and not quite my size. I was thinking about a marriage between the two. I also  think graphic festooned bike jerseys are rather ugly. And those pockets in the rear? Too many layers; they make me sweat. Also, the middle is never flattering—at least on my body. On the other hand, I envisioned a mix of bike shorts adorned with a functional yet girly top. Recently, someone brought it to my attention that I might be after the peplum look. Yes, that's it!

Peplum skirts. Photo credit: New York Fashion

So with 3 shirts that I otherwise would've turned to rags or given away, I spent a rainy weekend at the sewing machine. I wanted a flouncy look like some rayon clothing that I own. I had to settle for polyester; rayon was unavailable.

I love the breathable purple shirt and now it has a tiny skirt. I added the small flower to tie in the color.

This running shirt, though the same fabric, turned out quite different. There is little flare to the skirt. I didn't like the puckering on the sewn edge either, so I added tape binding.

I have to laugh at this one. It's a cottony t-shirt that turned out way too wide. It's better suited for a pregnant lady. I'm in love with leopard print so I'll revisit this project again. The cuffs are pretty cute.

In practice I liked the blue shirt quite a bit. It feels light and airy, almost as if there isn't fabric below my waistline.

The purple one is darling. I might've liked one more inch of skirt for looks, but it's plenty long enough for coverage.

Have any of you ladies made cycling shirts?