Mini Wardrobe Planning: Black, Tan and Metallic Gold

Sewing is a creative process and there is nothing wrong with sewing as the “mojo” moves you.  But sometimes sewing in a more organized manner can do wonders for your wardrobe.  I will be featuring posts on doing just that–putting together 3-4 fabrics that make mini wardrobe capsules.  These posts are meant to inspire and get your creative juices going so you can sew garments that will fit seamlessly (pun intended) into your closet.  All fabrics featured are from my shop Sew Much Fabric.

Left to Right: Black Denim, Black/Tan Tropical Print Lawn, Gold Metallic Linen Blend

The Basic Fabric: Black Denim

In this mini wardrobe capsule, Black Denim is our base piece.  It will automatically work with whatever you have in your closet. It is a wardrobe mainstay and is the cooler/edgier side of the denim family. Black denim not only works for a weekend glam look but can be easier to wear to the office than blue denim.  Jeans, capris or shorts are the usual items that come to mind when you’re thinking about black denim fabric. Consider taking this fabric out of its traditional box and make a blazer style jacket with or without sleeves or a fitted sheath dress.  For the trendier set overalls would fit the bill.  Pattern Suggestions: StyleArc-Jennifer City Shorts, Colette-Beignet, Simplicity 2340

The Trending Fabric: Gold Metallic Linen Blend

This is the fabric that keeps your fashion game current and on point. Metallics are shining bright this season but a little can go a long way. Because this is a linen/cotton/elastine blend the metallic is toned down a bit for a more sophisticated look.  I love the idea of a pencil skirt or a sleeveless shell top to add a little sparkle to an outfit.  A hip-length jacket without a collar or lapel would add a glam factor to any outfit you already own.  This fabric is also reversible (natural linen color) making it perfect for a color blocked dress.  Have an outdoor wedding this summer? This would make a striking dress to wear for just such an occasion.  Pattern Suggestions: Vogue 8923, Butterick 5617, Butterick 5899, Named-Vanamo Two-Piece Cocktail Dress 

The Completer Fabric: Black/Tan Tropical Print Lawn

A “completer” fabric is the fabric that pulls the entire look together.  The neutral color palette of this tropical print makes it a perfect candidate to coordinate with most other colors you already wear like red, kelly green and turquoise to name a few.  Because this fabric is light it lends itself to skirts and blouses with pleating, sheering or gathering without adding bulk.  A maxi dress for vacation also comes to mind or make an infinity scarf to add a summertime feel to jazz up your office attire.  Pattern Suggestions: Style Arc-Stephanie Woven Blouse, McCalls 6749, Vogue 8818 

The three fabrics work well together and with garments already in your closet.  Add some fun accessories and you will have a mini wardrobe capsule you will enjoy!