par Max Donos Gone are the days when white was strictly reserved for summer! This season, we’re embracing the versatility of lighter colours for a stylish and comfortable fall capsule wardrobe. Let’s explore how we created a capsule collection perfect for errands, travel, or the office, featuring a luxurious white cardigan and easy-to-wear separates.
Burda magazine inspiration
We embarked on a fabric exploration journey at Fabricville. From cozy knits to luxurious suiting fabrics, the options were endless. We narrowed it down to several beautiful choices, including:
Our goal was to create a cohesive ensemble that could be worn together or mixed and matched for various occasions. We used vintage Burda magazines for inspiration, selecting patterns for a cardigan coat, fit-and-flare trousers, and a classic blouse with a pleated stand collar.
The fabrics behaved beautifully during pre-washing and drying, retaining their shape and texture. However, a minor adaptation was needed for the cardigan coat. The chosen pattern called for a double-faced knit, which our cream cable knit (MAXINE) wasn’t. This led to a creative solution – tracing a facing and adjusting seam allowances. Another interesting challenge arose while cutting the cable knit – the pattern design ran horizontally, with the maximum stretch. To overcome this, we still cut the patterns with the cable pattern running vertically and used the selvedge for the bottom hem, eliminating the need for further finishing.
Aligning pattern pieces with the selvedge of MAXINE cable knit fabric
The cardigan coat construction followed the pattern instructions with some modifications. All seams were sewn with a straight stitch on a sewing machine and finished with a clean, hidden method:
For added functionality and style, we also incorporated two patch pockets and thread chain belt loops into the design.
Internal view of the hand finished cardigan seams
Thread chain belt loops
Before we even captured photos for this blog post, the cardigan became a wardrobe staple! It held its shape beautifully and proved to be exceptionally versatile.
The journey continues with the fit-and-flare trousers. This pattern boasted a simple design with no pockets and a fly front zipper, making for a straightforward construction. To enhance the crisp look, we stitched the front crease permanently, considering the fabric’s inability to hold a crease with ironing alone. This detail also ensures wrinkle-free travel wear!
Finally, we tackled the blouse. Despite being made with the fabric from the spring-summer collection, its heavier drape and captivating print made it a perfect fall wardrobe addition. Constructing the pleated stand collar required a custom pleating mould made from sturdy cardboard. We opted for French seams for a luxurious finish, adding a touch of elegance, but doubling the construction time. The result? A stunning blouse that effortlessly transitions through seasons and offers both simplicity and style.
Preparing pleated stand collar: stitching 3mm seam
Preparing pleated stand collar: stitching 3mm seam second time.
3mm hem ready for pleating
Laying the pleated stand collar piece between 2 sheets of pleated cardboard
Pressing the pleating mould with lots of steam and heat and waiting for it to cool down.
Pleating is complete.
Pleated stand collar in a classic blouse.
Buttoned calf detail.
French seams inside the classic printed silk blouse.
Embracing lighter colours like white for fall capsule wardrobe has proven to be a success! This versatile capsule collection demonstrates that comfort and style can coexist. Don’t be afraid to experiment with unexpected colour palettes and explore your creativity during the sewing process. With a bit of planning and resourcefulness, you can create beautiful and functional pieces that enhance your fall wardrobe.
