TRENDING…… 

THREE EASY PIECES FOR SUMMER

Although
summer hasn’t officially begun (it starts June 21st), the temperatures outside
say otherwise.  Holy smokes, it’s hot as
heck, no matter where you live! When the weather is this sizzling, it’s so
tempting to wear thin, barely there clothes. 
But… some of us want to cover up a little bit more.  So, let me give you some quick, easy, cool
pieces to get you through the dog days of summer.

First up, three cheers to the maxi dress!

  This
style is so versatile.  For a more
relaxed vacation style maxi dress, New Look 6206 is perfect.  If you want to go a little more glam, check
out McCall’s 6744.  The wrap maxi dress
allows for some serious leg to show.  It
also has the classic tank top style, in addition to the trendier wrap
version.  

Knits work well for maxi dresses.  For a distinctive fabric selection, think about making your maxi dress out of the Black and White Houndstooth knit.  This look can go from day to night with the flip of a belt, hat and purse. 

The maxi
dress looks great on women of all shapes and sizes. You can wear it to one of
the movie blockbusters at the theater this summer or to do some Saturday
shopping.    Pair it with a jean jacket or a light summer
sweater, sunglasses and some ballet slippers and you completely change the
look.  

Add tons of chains, platform wedges and you’ve got yourself a look for date night.  All of this with the same dress! 

The summertime compromise between pants and shorts is a pair of capri pants, like Vogue 1115 and McCall’s 6707.  For the upcoming Fourth of July fireworks we have red, cream or navy cotton stretch sateen.  

And for all of those backyard bar-b-ques you get invited to, wear a pair of black or blue denim capris.  The denim fabric is great for hiding any bar-b-que spills!  

And… if you want to make an entrance, how about a pair of animal print capris!  Now that is South of France chic! 

And finally, the high-low blouse is a style that always comes in handy, especially when you’re going from the hot temperatures outside into a cold air conditioned building. 

 A pattern idea for this classic top is Butterick 5786, which allows for three sleeve lengths–sleeveless, short or long.  I would love to see you make your blouse in this beautiful fabric called Red Galaxy.  This is a stretch/silk chiffon, that gives a touch of elegance to your summer look.  If you don’t want to use silk and want a more casual look, use the cotton lawn, Orange Alert.  The look is a nod to the 70s (where are my roller skates?).  Make sure the blouse in the front doesn’t stop at an unflattering length.

This
shirt will work for most figures. The exception is ladies with full bust.  This figure type will need to cinch in the
waistline.

The fullness
of this shirt contrasts very well with the slimness of the capri pants.  Did I mention it’s very comfy?  You can also turn this shirt into a work
outfit by pairing it with a pencil skirt and belting the blouse.  Accessorize and you are the most stylish
woman at work!  

Visit
ourPinterestboardto see how all of these looks come together.  

And always let us know what you’re thinking by
contacting us athoustonsmf@aol.com.  

Smfabric.comwill keep you current and
beautiful, so you can sew your fabrics into fashion!