For me, January is the coldest and most depressing month of the year, the days are short and the excitement of Christmas feels like a distant memory. I think this is why January is travel agents busiest month, people need something to look forward to and nothing beats the thought of a sunny summer holiday. A holiday can mean only one thing, a nice new summer wardrobe. The cold dark January evenings are a great time to get started and Calico Laine is my first port of call for Dress Fabrics.  We carry a variety of patterns including Butterick, Vogue and McCalls, all of which have a fabulous selection of summer dresses suitable for all abilities. I think half the fun of sewing is choosing your Dress Fabric. I particularly like the Rose and Hubble cottons because they are a great quality at a great price. They are easy to work with, wash well and the selection is incredible. I particularly like bright florals for the summer but the range also covers bolder patterns, children’s designs and simple plains. There is something for everyone. Another range I particularly like for the summer is the lycra jersey Dress Fabric. This range is superb quality; it’s lovely to wear and lends itself well to those ‘quick’ zip free patterns I like to throw together in an hour. Some jerseys can be clingy and unflattering but this Dress Fabric is a delight, it looks good and it feels great. The colour range is a bit different too, the usual black, brown and cream are available but if you’re after something a bit different then there is a stunning, unusual green, a subtle rose pink and a bright summery jade to name a few. The best thing about this particular Dress Fabric is that it doesn’t crease, just throw it in your case and then it’s ready to wear! Roll on summer.....