In a flurry of somewhat optimistic spring sewing, I made the top version of the Flor from Bella Loves Patterns. It’s a super-ruffly wrap top and dress that can be made in floaty viscose for a dreamy romantic vibe, or in a more structured cotton for full-on drama. Unintentionally, I fell into the latter, and the top is somewhat attention grabbing!
There’s a glimmer of hope…spring is just around the corner. It may be a bit up and down at the moment, but it’s definitely time to start planning our warmer-weather makes. I’ve rounded up my top trends for spring 2021, however, these aren’t clothes for short-lived fads; I’ve chosen trends, styles and patterns that’ll see you through for years to come.
The Two-tones
So easily overlooked, the classic pairing of black and white has been given some oomph in the form of sleek cuts, colour blocking and voluminous shapes.
This trend could be applied to any patterns you have (saving you money, hurrah!), and can be easily worked into your everyday wardrobe. I’m planning to use some white offcuts to make some minimalist tops inspired by Chanel (above centre), and I’ve gone all-in for monochrome in the form of gingham, with purchases from Thimble and Notch, Minerva and Dalston Mill Fabrics.
Continue reading “Haute Stuff: Trends for Spring 2021”A not-necessary-to-fill but still gleaming hole in my wardrobe was the boiler suit; utilitarian and a bit androgynous, they’re very very cool. There have been a few that have caught my eye, namely the Intrepid Boiler Suit from Alice & Co and Thelma from Merchant and Mills, but Lennox from Homer and Howells ticked all the boxes for me:
Button up ✓
Waistband ✓
Fly fastening ✓
Semi-fitted ✓
Continue reading “(Boiler)Suit Up: the Lennox from Homer and Howells”
There are many basic slouchy sweatshirt sewing patterns out there, and I’ve found The One for children, in the form of the Casper sweater from WISJ patterns. A family-run pattern company, WISJ (it’s the first initial of each family member’s name combined, in case you’re wondering) sells patterns to create your own fun, quirky, yet practical childrenswear.
When talking about our aims for the year ahead on un:CUT podcast, I said I’d like to make more clothes for my family. Max is 3 years old, he’s a big lad, and finding clothes that fit him nicely is a bit of a mission. I decided to start with some projects for him, and came across WISJ on Instagram. Max has a builder’s bum that never lets up. Seriously, it’s just always there. Cue: the Casper sweater. With its dipped hem at the back, this sweater solves the issue perfectly!
The Bakerloo blouse from Nina Lee Patterns burst onto the sewing scene last month and it’s gone down a storm. The huge collar and ruffle ooze cottagecore cool (although maybe saying cool negates the cool?). The pattern gives two versions: a shirt and a dress and two sleeve lengths, so you get a few options before any hacking or customising. Another bonus, there are no fiddly fastenings to sew as it opens with a keyhole at the back!
