Clothes Minded: Seasonal Sewing

Breaking Down the Article

• Introduction to seasonal sewing and the importance of creating a wardrobe that adapts to changing seasons.
• Assessing the basics, including jeans and tops, and experimenting with new fabrics and patterns.
• Focusing on cold-weather loungewear and pajamas for comfort and practicality.
• Building in complexity with advanced projects like jackets and outerwear.
• Observing fall and winter trends, focusing on timeless and versatile styles.
• Choosing the right fabrics and colours for fall and winter, with a focus on natural fibres and earth tones.
• Incorporating thrifted garments for a sustainable wardrobe.
• Steps for planning a fall wardrobe, including understanding colour palettes and taking advantage of summer sales.

Introduction to Seasonal Sewing

Living in Boulder, Colorado brings about four distinct seasons each year, signalling the need to update my wardrobe accordingly. As temperatures begin to drop in September, a maker instinct awakens in me, prompting a thorough assessment of my sewing projects. The ideas for my fall and winter wardrobe resonate for a month, allowing ample time for marination before the actual sewing process begins.

Assessing the Basics

As the weather cools, sewing a new pair of jeans becomes imperative. If last year's jeans remain in stellar condition, I diversify by crafting a pair in black or a different colour. Experimenting with denim’s stretch and recovery becomes an enjoyable process, often using tried-and-true patterns like Buttress Jeans or Ginger Jeans. Next, I evaluate my need for tops, making it a point to sew at least one button-up shirt, favouring patterns like Grainline Studio’s Archer or Hey June Handmade’s Cheyenne. Plaid double cloth is particularly appealing for its colour blocking and playful pattern opportunities. Relaxed blouses using patterns such as the Beatrix Blouse or Dove Blouse in flowy fabrics like rayon challis or silk crepe, in warm reds and cool blues, add variety to my wardrobe. Cold-weather loungewear and pyjamas also take precedence. Sewing a Hey June Handmade Halifax Hoodie in solid French Terry proves ideal for morning dog walks, while black or grey True Bias Hudson Pants paired with a rayon jersey Lane Raglan offer cosy loungewear options.

Building in Complexity

With a near-sustainable handmade wardrobe, I now focus on complex clothing items. Last year’s project was a rain jacket from the Lonetree Jacket sewing pattern, a versatile addition for light outerwear. This year, I aim to sew a tailored leather jacket, a project that demands more research and skill, adding excitement to my seasonal sewing.

Fall and Winter Trends

I gravitate towards trends that lean towards minimalism and androgyny, eschewing fleeting styles. Classic yet simple silhouettes resonate more, providing longevity and timeless wear. Reflecting my headstrong and intentional personality, I prefer understated trends that bend towards lasting appeal rather than overly feminine or youthful styles.

Fall Fabrics and Colours

Layering natural fibres becomes essential in Boulder’s autumn weather, with days starting cold and warming up significantly. Rayon’s breathability and drape quality make it a year-round favourite. Cotton and linen serve well for structured items, while Tencel provides opacity and a heavy drape fitting for fall dresses and skirts. Suede and leather remain staple choices for fall. A suede pencil skirt, lined for durability, offers versatile styling options. Thick knits, like rayon-based Ponte for blazers or drapey ribbed knit for cardigans, are ideal for added warmth. Autumn’s colours hail from nature: rust red, camel brown, and ivory blouses against rich sienna brown trousers create harmonious, nature-inspired looks. Metal and leather jewellery amplify the warm tones, tying ensembles together gracefully.

Incorporating Thrifted Garments

For those short on sewing time, thrifting offers a sustainable alternative. Searching for sweaters in summer yields bargains, and simple alterations can convert them to well-fitted winter staples. Men’s button-up shirts are easily adjusted for a slouchy, casual top. Repurposing large men’s leather jackets into personalised pieces or accessories like the London Backpack or braided leather bracelets is also practical and eco-friendly.

Steps for Planning a Fall Wardrobe

Understanding your colour palette is crucial. Fall and winter call for more muted tones compared to brighter summer colours. Building a wish list early in the summer, taking advantage of fabric sales, and starting research on complex projects early can streamline your fall sewing. This preparation ensures seamless transitions into colder weather sewing projects, filled with inspiration and preparedness.

First Trim's Hot Take

Seasonal sewing is not just about practicality but also about exploring creativity and expressing personal style. By combining basic wardrobe staples with advanced projects and sustainable practices like thrifting, one can achieve a versatile and stylish autumn wardrobe. Planning ahead and understanding your colour palette can significantly ease the transition into fall sewing, making it an enjoyable and rewarding experience. Stay updated with the latest patterns and fabric sales to optimise resources and enhance your seasonal sewing journey. Original Article: https://s32088.pcdn.co/free/clothes-minded-seasonal-sewing/