Five Fall Sewing Patterns for a Classic Wardrobe

With the change of seasons I inevitably think about what I’d like to be wearing in the coming months. Living in Los Angeles, it does tend to be almost the same weather all year long. Despite the constant warm temps, we do like to change our style of dress. Otherwise there’s really no way to know what month is. As always, I will be wearing a lot of my own patterns. I’m particularly looking forward to wearing the Nita Wrap Skirt with tights this Fall and making more knit Lou Box Tops (going down one size gives a great fit). I’ve also been thinking about making another pair of jeans. After all, I probably wear jeans more than any other garment.

But there are a few patterns that I have not tried yet that I’m really excited to sew this season. I already have all the patterns and fabric to go with them. Just stitching left to do. :) With the exception of the Nehalem Pants, these patterns could all be categorized under basics. I expect all of them to be wardrobe workhorses.

5 Fall Sewing Patterns for a Classic Wardrobe

1. Nehalem Pants by Sew House Seven
It was love at first sight with me and these pants. I'll be sewing them up soon. So stay tuned!

2. Lark Tee by Grainline Studio
I'm really looking forward to trying this one. My t-shirt drawer is overflowing but I there are a lot of shirts in there that I don't love. I'm hoping that this pattern will become a go-to for basic t-shirts.

3. Victoria Blazer by By Hand London
I was really excited when this pattern was added to their pdf collection. I have the pattern printed and assembled and some black linen washed and ready. 

4. Ultimate Shift Dress by Sew Over It
This pattern is on my 2016 Make Nine list and I keep meaning to make it but get distracted. Isn't that always the case? I have the pattern printed and assembled. I just need to choose some fabric. I think the version with sleeves will be great for Fall.

5. Driftless Cardigan by Grainline Studio
Working in an air conditioned office, I always need to have a sweater on hand. Somehow I've ended wearing the same 2 or 3 sweaters all the time. A long cardigan like this is a neutral color will be perfect for throwing over any outfit.

Et voila! My fall sewing project list is all sorted. There are probably about 10 other things on the list too but with so many great things out there, how can I resist? What sewing projects are you going to be working on this fall?

5 Essential Summer Sewing Patterns

I have just a few requirements for my summer wardrobe. It must keep me cool, comfortable and have the ability to be layered. I spend most of my days in shorts, or dresses and rompers with the occasional cardi or button down for cool nights and heavily AC'd buildings. And of course for my too-rare beach days, a swimsuit. Today, I'm sharing a few sewing patterns that will take you through summer in me-made ease. What I also love about these patterns is that they are basic designs that can be made and worn over and over again. 

5 Essential Summer Sewing Patterns

1. Vallyne Tank by Seamly
A good basic tank top is essential for any summer wardrobe. I've been wearing a lot of DIY racerback tanks that I traced from an RTW shirt but I'd really like to try out some tank and t-shirt patterns. I really like the classic design of the Vallyne Tank. It's something that will be in style forever. Also, these styles are so quick to sew, it's probably quicker and a lot less stressful to sew one yourself than heading to the mall. 

2. Sanibel Romper by Hey June
I made the Sanibel Dress a few months ago and since then I've probably worn it more than other dress in my wardrobe. It's a great design that looks polished but is still really comfy. I recently did a little Sanibel Romper hack from a dress I rarely wore. I used the bodice from the dress and cut up the skirt to make the shorts. I really love it and can't wait to make the romper.

3. Spring Shorts by Peppermint Magazine
I really love wearing shorts in the summer and probably have too many of them already but there are still a lot that I want to try out. At the top of my list are the Spring Shorts. It's a free pattern from Peppermint Magazine with a comfy drawstring waist and curved hem. 

4. Sylvie Dress by Christine Haynes
More than any other season, summer is the season for dresses. The Sylvie Dress is a classic design that will take you to summer weddings, graduations and even to work. Just the style of dress that everyone should have a few of in their wardrobe. 

5. Soma Swimsuit by Papercut Patterns
I love all the variations in this pattern, a one-piece, bottoms and two tops. I recently made a test version of the bikini top version 2 using a double knit that can be worn as a lounge bra. I really love it and am imagining all the non-swimwear possibilities of this pattern. I'm also planning to start a swim version of the one-piece very soon. 

Do you have any favorite summer patterns? 

10 Loungewear Sewing Patterns

Lately I’ve been working from home a lot and basically living in my loungewear. I always make a point of changing out of my pjs to make myself feel more awake. But I just can’t bring myself to wear anything that’s not soft and stretchy. Even on days when I work in an office, I often come home and change into comfier clothing. Today I’m rounding up 10 loungewear sewing patterns to help inspire you to DIY your own handmade loungewear.

10 Loungewear Sewing Patterns

1. Hudson Pants by True Bias
I've made these at least four times and I wear them a lot. A total must-have basic for your pattern collection and your wardrobe.

2. Halifax Hoodie by Hey June
This is a great pattern with lots of options in a classic design. I made the zip up version a few months ago and wear it all the time. Check it out here

3. Virginia Leggings by Megan Nielsen
I'm a big fan of her patterns and these have been in my to-sew list for too long. Must try soon!

4. Vogue V8909
Fun elastic waist pants perfect for lounging

5. Almada Robe by Seamwork Mag
Super cool kimono inspired robe

6. Stylearc Sabel Boyfriend Cardi
I love the dropped shoulders of this roomy cardi.

7. Montlake Tee by Straight Stitch Designs
A classic t-shirt design with an easy fit.

8. Vogue V8952
I love the roomy dipped hem on this t-shirt.

9. Burdastyle Bralette and Knickers Lingerie Set
This ruffled two-piece set is soooo cute!!

10. New Look 6323
This pattern gives you leggings and a tunic style top. Can we all say "win-win"?

PS If you’re curious what I’ve been wearing lately, check out my instagram for all of my me-made-may outfits. Lots of loungewear included!