These six pieces have almost endless possibilities. They serve as the basis for Mary Lou Rankin's personal wardrobe. She says, "So often we make or buy a beautiful piece of jewelry, a shawl or maybe an embellished or pieced jacket or vest...then find out it overpowers the rest of our wardrobe." The simple and strong shaped of the Central Park garments are perfect to wear with wonderful accessories. Fabrics, textures and colors all add to the versatility of these pieces. The lengths can be adjusted to suit your personal style. In addition to being great basic clothes, these shapes are perfect to embellish, quilt, piece, paint to use as decorative artwear. The pieces are also great for the "I haven't sewn in a while" person. Shirt/Top may be split down the center to make a jacket or shirt and the length is optional. Jacket may be shortened as desired. A slit in the side seams is another great look. Inseam pockets may be omitted or add a patch pocket instead. Long vest may be lined, cut shorter or cut full length with slits for walking ease. This shape is great for embellishing or quilting. Short vest is basic and versatile, great for art wear project.

Fabric Suggestions: Natural fiber fabrics such as cotton, silk, wool in almost any weight and texture work well. Man-made fabrics such as rayon, micro fibers, polys, and most blends also will work beautifully. Use quilted, embellished, hand-woven or knitted fabrics for the vests or jackets. Be creative and design a textured or pleated fabric...almost any technique will work in one of these pieces.