Now it looks like the sun is finally making it's way out from behind those grey clouds, hopefully to stay, it is finally time to start thinking about your Spring/Summer 2014 Sewing projects. I particularly enjoy Sewing at this time of year, not only because of the fabulous fabrics we have coming into stock at this time of year including gorgeous floral prints and pastel shades, but most of all I love sitting outside in the warm sunshine with my stitching and on a really lovely day when you just cannot stay indoors I may even drag out my Sewing machine! As dressmakers, we always have our eye trained closely on the fashion publications and our team of buyers will make it their business to know what we will all be wearing during the upcoming seasons long before the fabrics hit our shelves. When planning your on trend Spring/Summer wardrobe it is important to consider which of the key trends you wish to incorporate into your Sewing project and which fabrics are best used to achieve the overall look you are aiming for. To keep you up to date with what is going to be on trend this upcoming season, here is our run down of the top trends which look set to define Spring/Summer 2014.
Crop Tops - at New York Fashion Week, crop tops were all over the catwalk and in particular Diane Von Furstenburg and DKNY showcased a gorgeous collection of midriff baring outfits suitable for hot, hazy days and balmy nights. When we think of crop tops, we are often put off by flashbacks of the 1980's bra tops teamed with denim skirts and leg warmers when in fact, this seasons crop tops are elegant and classy and can be teamed with a variety of your staple wardrobe pieces for day to night glamour. When embarking on a new Sewing project, think about what items you already own and can be updated with the addition of one high fashion piece. Team your crop top with cotton skirts or casual trousers and gladiator sandals for an elegant daytime look and switch to a more structured skirt with stiletto sandals to take your crop top to evening.
Sheer Detailing - for a modest look with a touch of sex appeal add some sheer detailing to your Sewing like the gorgeous collection shown by Michael Kors at New York. Sheer detailing is a great idea for ladies who wish to show some skin on a hot day but still need the added confidence of a little bit of coverage, for example on the arms. You can also Sew sheer panels onto existing tops or the hem of a dress for a fresh, on trend appearance. For those who have the confidence to rock it, combine two key trends by putting a sheer cami over your skirt and crop top to show off your hard work in the gym without your outfit being considered too revealing for day time.
Wide Legs - a great way to still wear trousers without over heating on a hot day is to wear your trousers with a wide leg hem. This season, wide leg trousers are seen in white which is a lovely, fresh look for a hot summer shopping trip or lunch date. Wide leg trousers are a particularly easy look to wear and are flattering on all shapes and sizes. Sewing wide trousers with linen fabrics such as our Blades Linens is a great project for summer and will look bang on trend paired with a pair of brown wedges, a fitted top and a statement handbag.
Beading and Embellishment - for those who are particularly experienced at Sewing and wish to give themselves a challenge, this seasons embellishment trend is perfect for testing your precision Sewing skills. Contrary to belief, embellishment is not just for evening outfits. Add a touch of glam to your daytime outfits by wearing an embellished mini skirt paired with a casual cotton tee and flat sandals or add some studded detail to a simple top and pair with your favourite denim jeans. For an elegant evening look you can really let your imagination take over with a glam, glitzy embellished floor length maxi and killer heels. You can also update your shoes and accessories by Sewing on studs and beads in varying colours.
Have you started any of your Spring/Summer Sewing projects? As always, we love to see your pictures uploaded onto our Facebook page.