Sew Yourself An Amazing Capsule Wardrobe With These EIGHT Sewing Patterns

[@derynporter5287]

Love the concept of a capsule wardrobe and am trying to create one myself. In theory, being able to sew one yourself should give you total control over style and colour. In practice, it’s sometimes difficult to source the right fabric and a slight deviation in shade or pattern can result in a mismatch and disappointment. I love the Zoe tank top and dress and have made both but have found it hard to find exactly the right fabric, that will fit in with other garments. I’m currently making the Cambria duster and various mishaps (pattern piece missing under the table, not noticing suggested layout used large collar piece upside down while I had a directional print) have resulted in having to have a contrasting collar which I fear is going to look more mother-of-the -bride than the relaxed boho style I was after. I need to be more disciplined in my fabric choices and so fabric suggestions like yours are very helpful. Love that viscose dobby, for instance, so thanks!

[@SecretLifeOfASeamstress]

Oh dear, things like that happen to us all don't they! I'm sure your finished garment will be lovely :) I'm glad you found the video helpful and thank you for watching xx

[@karendiesner5008]

I’d like to recommend Pattern Emporium as a brand - she is an Australian designer and the Besties Tee pattern has so many variations to try, it’s great value. PE have patterns you don’t see elsewhere and they all have a styling video on the website with the pattern so you can see how they look made up. One thing to be aware of is the 1/4 inch seams but that’s easy to increase if you don’t like them. Hope this is useful, Sally! I love your podcasts x

[@SecretLifeOfASeamstress]

Thank you so much for the recommendation I'll look it up :) xx

[@virginiagrimsey42]

I love Pattern Emporium patterns

[@kathryndailey3680]

I love Core Closet Core t-shirt. It is a free pattern too.

[@SecretLifeOfASeamstress]

Oh I’ll have a look thanks 😊 xx

[@LittleMissieB]

The Core t-shirt is my go to pattern. Love the fit particularly around the arm hole. The crew neckline is a little high for me but that can easily be altered to personal preference. Thanks for the great video.

[@lindahopkins4389]

Pattern Emporium has tee shirt patterns that include a wide range of options for necklines, sleeves, hems and bands or alternative finishes. PE also have great instructions for those not confident sewing with knits.

[@SecretLifeOfASeamstress]

Thanks so much for this recommendation I'll check that out and thank you for watching! :) x

[@MultiFortunate1]

Pattern Emporium make BRILLIANT patterns. So many options in the 1 pattern, fabulous instructions, so thoroughly done & often elements from one of their patterns can be interchanged etc. Great patterns.

[@camilero7510]

Try Love Notions patterns. The free laundry day tee can be made into tee, tank and dress. They also have many other patterns for a variety of tastes. Plus, comes in a large range of sizes.

[@SecretLifeOfASeamstress]

Thank you I’ll have a look xx

[@KarenMcNeil-en2fn]

Maybe it's me but I find patterns are getting so expensive, some nearly the same cost as the fabric to make it. Sewing clothes isn't as affordable as it used to be 🙂

[@SecretLifeOfASeamstress]

Yes they are i really think carefully before buying one these days xx

[@teruldacz]

I found it really worth it to learn how to draft my own patterns from basic slopers as well as hacking patterns like Tilly's Indigo pattern to make whatever I want from them ❤

[@VG-cz7yg]

In Australia, a fabric shop called Spotlight regularly has sewing patterns on sale. I recently purchased 4 patterns for $20. The Indy patterns are quite expensive and I rarely purchase those. I have a large collection of patterns now but only use a small handful that I make over and over again.

[@Kiltsnquilts]

I am a serial pattern repeater. I have one particular pattern I’ve made about 15 times….that makes it great value for money. I am aiming to hack the patterns I have more often and only buy if it’s got a feature that’s really unusual and I can’t replicate. For me it’s more about being able to choose my style instead of relying on what the stores decide we should all be wearing. Also I can get the fit right and can also choose my own colour palette instead of having to wear whatever Pantone/fashion stores think is the colour of the year!

[@mhtammi]

I’ve found patterns at the thrift store for $1.00 compared to $15.00 and upward at fabric stores. Of course finding the size and style you want is tricky.

[@amongbrendasquiltsbags5408]

My go to t-shirt pattern is by Pamela's Patterns, called The Perfect T-Shirt.

[@SecretLifeOfASeamstress]

Thank you for the recommendation!! xx

[@Kiltsnquilts]

The Sew Liberated Bedrock tee is a favourite of mine. Two styles that are quite different and different sleeve options too make it a great value winter and summer pattern.

[@SecretLifeOfASeamstress]

Thanks so much for the suggestion! Xx

[@derynporter5287]

Popped back to say, the next video I watched was the latest Foldline and they presented the latest Fibre Mood magazine which is basically a capsule wardrobe. Very excited . . . the styling and fabric ideas in this magazine are great but the you have to find them!

[@SecretLifeOfASeamstress]

Oooh thank you I'll have a watch of that it sounds right up my street! :) x

[@nicolelee2205]

I make patterns from clothes I really like. Sometimes it takes a bit of adjustment, so make it with inexpensive fabric the first time, but overall I've had a lot of success with this. I also use my mum's patterns from the 1970s, you just have to modernise the details sometimes, and look past the crazy fabrics in the pictures.

[@SecretLifeOfASeamstress]

That sounds very clever and a great idea! I also love vintage patterns but I’ve not tried to sew one yet x

[@nicoletrost5162]

Pattern Emporium have a great tank top called the time out tank. They also have several cami patterns.

[@SecretLifeOfASeamstress]

Thank you for that suggestion! x

[@kathygann7632]

Bird-ee pattern from Pattern Scout. By the way, she has breast cancer and is going through treatment right now, so if you like any of her patterns, please buy one.

[@cjane51]

Thanks for the inspiration Sally. This is the year of trousers for me. I’m working on fit now that my broken wrist is healed. Looking forward to seeing what you sew. Don’t underrate your skill. You are very creative and I enjoy your videos- Claudia

[@SecretLifeOfASeamstress]

Glad to hear your wrist is better. Trousers are definitely something I want to be better at this year too - good luck making yours xx

[@julschristey3406]

Thanks Sally some good ideas for my own here x

[@SecretLifeOfASeamstress]

I’m glad you enjoyed it xx

[@TheSolipsist0]

Thanks for showing some great pattern ideas. I‘m into the brigette top and the style arc elasticpants. Since I’m also a knitter I would add some knitted cardigans and sweaters as well and of cause a scarf.

[@SecretLifeOfASeamstress]

Ah yes some knitted cardigans would be great. I love the look of the Brigitte top that would be a great outfit together xx

[@skinvet]

Great vlog, thank you! I haven’t finished watching yet but just wanted to say I have made up the cropped version of the Jesse tee and it is fantastic. Great with high waisted items and i love layering over tanks.

[@SecretLifeOfASeamstress]

That's good to know thank you! I'm excited to try it this summer xx

[@SusanHunt-n4z]

I would have a look at Pattern Emporium the patterns always have lots of different styles

[@SecretLifeOfASeamstress]

Thank you! You are the second person to recommend so they must be good :) xx

[@einahpets]

Sally, I really appreciate how informative your videos are. The way you talk is professional without being too stiff and conversational without being disorganized. It's the perfect balance! I'm really inspired to add another Breton style top to my wardrobe for the spring and was wondering if you could point me towards the viscose jersey that you used for the one you're wearing? I own some cotton spandex Breton style tops already but thinking I need something a little more relaxed and drapey.

[@SecretLifeOfASeamstress]

Thank you so much I'm so pleased you feel that way as it can be hard to get the balance right :) The fabric I am wearing I bought 'in person' from a fabric shop in Brighton called Cloth Control. I've been looking at this one from Minerva, this is a viscose so should have some drape and comes in a few colours too. I hope that helps www.minerva.com/mp/1269283/minerva-core-range-viscose-jersey-stretch-knit-fabric&variant=1269243 xx

[@Angie29449]

Another very helpful video. Thanks!! I am currently sewing the Byrdie Blouse by Pattern Scout. Hoping to finish it tomorrow!

[@SecretLifeOfASeamstress]

Ah it looks like a great pattern are you doing the pin tucks? X

[@Angie29449]

@@SecretLifeOfASeamstress no, I am doing view A first but plan on doing view B next. I think they are both beautiful.

[@theoccasionalstitcher]

Great ideas, thank you 😊. Have you seen the Ellis knit T by style arc? I have bought the pattern but haven't used it yet so can't comment on the fit but it looks good.

[@SecretLifeOfASeamstress]

Thank you - no I hadn't and I thought I had studied SA patterns quite well lol! I'll have a look, thank you for watching xxx

[@maureencandlish8292]

Thank you Sally, I’m not very good at sewing but really enjoy your channel. Everything you mention seems to be so on trend and even if I can’t sew them it gives me ideas on putting outfits together that are classic but modern and not over the top. Like the idea of making them in good quality fabric that lasts more than one season. I also fancy a Breton top but in apple green and white stripes. Think that colour goes good with navy, black and white. Thanks again for all the thought you put into your videos x

[@SecretLifeOfASeamstress]

I’m glad you’re finding them helpful 😊 That colour of Breton top sounds lovely it would go with everything xx

[@mimiandthemuse]

I just found your channel. And subscribed! I look forward to seeing how you sew together these lovely items

[@SecretLifeOfASeamstress]

I’m excited to give some of them a go x

[@annebrown886]

A great video, you’ve really done your research, I made the avid seamstress blazer last year and it was a really good sew so be brave and go for it 🧵✂️🪡

[@SecretLifeOfASeamstress]

Thank you I'm glad you enjoyed it! I'm planning to make a start on it this week, it's good to know you enjoyed sewing it. I seem to be struggling for sewing time at the moment 😁 x

[@cindy7702]

Great ideas.. Thank you.. I want a wardrobe where everything blends with everything else

[@SecretLifeOfASeamstress]

Ah yes that would be amazing wouldn’t it 😊 xx

[@suze7268]

Hi Sally :) I'm a 'stripey' girl too, haha :) Stripes and/or Spirals & that's me sorted :) Thank so much for the video, you've inspired me to have a sort-out & build a capsule wardrobe of favourites. Always glad to see you, thanks for your channel xXx

[@SecretLifeOfASeamstress]

Ah that's good to know haha! I'm glad to have inspired you and thank you for watching xx

[@janechadwick2635]

Unfettered Patterns have a nice free crew neck t-shirt patterns with a slight drop shouldered cut. Also Mood Society are also worth a look for any item - all patterns are free! Thanks for a great video as usual.

[@SecretLifeOfASeamstress]

Thanks so much for those suggestions xx

[@yvonneimms9762]

Really interesting topic thank you. Got me thinking about the patterns I have in my stash and pulling them together in a similar way to make a capsule wardrobe. As another lady said, patterns are so expensive so let’s rethink and use the ones we have adjusting to get the right fit/style. It’s only when we compare the pieces that we see how similar some of them are. You have a few on your list that I have the pattern and fabric ready to go so should just get on with it. Thanks for the inspiration ❤

[@SecretLifeOfASeamstress]

Thank you so much for watching I'm glad you found it interesting! Yes, I agree using what we already have is always best :) Good luck with your plans xx

[@knit1purl234]

I love the Stellan Tee by French Navy Patterns!

[@SecretLifeOfASeamstress]

I couldn’t get on with that one, the neckline was weird but I know loads of people love it so I’m sure it’s me haha. Thanks for watching xx

[@evanick823]

Very informative video, thanks. I have made a number of blazers over the years but now fancy something more fitted and shorter than what I made in the past. I liked the one you showed with a yellow collar. I think I'd like it in black with a longish skirt, maybe midi made of tulle, maybe also black, not sure. This is the image I have in my head - maybe my next project.

[@SecretLifeOfASeamstress]

That sounds like a beautiful outfit. The Jasika blazer does look lovely doesn't it! Thank you for watching xx

[@threadtherapy251]

Great video 😊 I’d love a capsule wardrobe…. My problem is I work from home and live in either jeans or sweatpants. I need a more exciting life to be able to go places to wear the clothes. Love your style 😊

[@SecretLifeOfASeamstress]

Ah yes I feel that pain! My plan this year was to get out to work more I'm trying to stick to that haha x

[@thebrumstitcher495]

Lovely vlog! It’s an oldie but I’ve recently sewn the lark tee, which worked well long in the length though, also the Emmie Tee has become a favourite recently. It is easy to get intimidated by patterns. I have just finished I Am Hathor, which I have been putting off since August, but I think its my favourite ever make. Don’t let your mind doubt your skills, try the blazer and enjoy the process! 😊

[@SecretLifeOfASeamstress]

Thank you for that encouragement I'm glad your make turned out well :) Thank you for the pattern recommendations too I had forgotten about the Lark Tee xx

[@louiseroberts9553]

great video with lots of ideas thank you Sally

[@SecretLifeOfASeamstress]

Thank you for watching I’m glad you enjoyed it 😊 xx

[@dianewilliams7931]

Great job on the capsule wardrobe pattern rundown. I’m very interested in building a cohesive wardrobe.Like you, I love to make clothes so the “minimalist” label isn’t for me but I would like to define my style better and make things that go with each other. I can’t decide if I’d be better off making everything coordinate to mix and match or if I would be better off making outfits. 🤔

[@SecretLifeOfASeamstress]

Ooh yes that's a tricky one. I guess making things that go with each other might be more helpful for when you come to add new things?? x

[@alisonlowrie7220]

Thanks so much for sharing this. Really interesting.

[@SecretLifeOfASeamstress]

Thanks for watching! xx

[@evandclause]

Thank you for this useful video with great choices of patterns. I have to declutter my wardrobe as they are too many clothes that don’t suit or fit me anymore or look very worn out. I am definitely be using some of your suggestions to improve my wardrobe.

[@SecretLifeOfASeamstress]

Thank you so much for watching I'm glad you enjoyed it xx

[@janeybeasley9525]

I have always loved the idea of a capsule wardrobe but beige/camel/neutrals just don’t suit me, I look like I’ve been dug up from a few months underground 🤪! I love colour and just I feel I’m getting a few pieces together when I get attracted to something in another gorgeous shade and I’m off down another pathway! That sophisticated camel coat and navy blazer look will look fabulous on you Sally but sadly it’s not me, good job we are all different, it’s what makes life so interesting! I love all your suggestions of patterns and will try some of them and look forward to seeing your new makes, like the blazer, don’t be nervous, you will smash it! Have a good week ❤

[@SecretLifeOfASeamstress]

I completely understand that! Maybe think of it more as some base colours that will go with other shades in your wardrobe? Just an idea 😊 Thank you for watching xx

[@Kiltsnquilts]

@janeybeasley9525 I think that a lot of people presume a capsule collection has to be neutrals. I recently made a summer capsule consisting of two Clo bias skirts (one denim and one black and white large gingham), three Bedrock tee shirts (one black print, one white and one black and white stripes) and three Maya tops (one white linen, one bubblegum pink washer cotton and one in the leftovers of the black and white gingham). I already had a green linen denim jacket style I made recently and a black and white quilted jacket along with a pair of black linen trousers. I don’t wear camel either and black and white are my neutrals. Start with your favourite colours….every item doesn’t have to go with absolutely everything….most of my capsule items go together but I probably wouldn’t wear the green jacket over the pink Maya top but on the whole I can mix and match most of it. Good luck finding a capsule that works for you 😊

[@janspenno2241]

Paradise patterns tank is very successful for me

[@lunieblue]

I have the pattern, what kind of knit did you use?

[@SecretLifeOfASeamstress]

I can't wait to give it a try xx

[@constancegarcia8053]

What a great list! ❤ What will you be sewing next? 🧵🪡

[@SecretLifeOfASeamstress]

Thank you!! My blazer hopefully 🤞🏻 😂

[@kellyprivatte7583]

@@SecretLifeOfASeamstress I just made my Love Notions Metra Blazer this week. Trust me, it’s well worth a look after seeing your recommendations. I’m not an affiliate, but am a HUGE fan of their patterns. If you like Tilly, I think you’d really like Love Notions.

[@nataliestanchevski4628]

I love the Inspector Gadget reference lol. I'd love to see you style your future trench coat with a fedora that turns into a flying machine.😂 Thank you for the trip down memory lane. "I'll get you next time, Gadget!"

[@SecretLifeOfASeamstress]

Haha!! Ah so many happy childhood summer holiday memories x

[@Serendipity_x_]

I'd Sew Over it Ultimate Trousers pattern - flattering side zip (invisible zip though!)

[@MultiFortunate1]

Hello, love your ideas. Giving us lots to think about!! Just a query - wondering if your striped top (in this clip) was a Coco (TATB)? Thank you.

[@SecretLifeOfASeamstress]

Yes it is it’s listed in the description x

[@MultiFortunate1]

Thanks v much. I missed that.

[@KindnessOnline]

Does anyone have a source for good solid t-Shirt fabric that is Canadian-friendly? Sally, your T-shirt talk has inspired me to get my T-shirts together!

[@SecretLifeOfASeamstress]

Ooh maybe someone will be able to help more than me but I know Minerva ship worldwide. I really like their viscose jerseys if that helps x

[@helenhill9015]

thanks for your video, really useful and its given me lots of ideas. I can highly recommend the Blomma Tank made 4 so far in neutral colours. Fits really well and covers bra straps :-) H

[@SecretLifeOfASeamstress]

Ah fab I’m really looking forward to making one this year x

[@kirstenaleigh]

I'm obsessed with it too! And it's free! The sommar camisole by paradise patterns is also great. I just got them last summer and already have a few of each.

[@ChristineSewsALot]

I like both the Union St Tee by Hey June and The Green Tee by Greenstyle Patterns. The Green Tee is a free pattern.

[@SecretLifeOfASeamstress]

Thank you for these I’ll look them up xx

[@nancyblackstock3278]

Hi Sally, love your vlogs. I think you underestimate your sewing ability, of all the garments you have made, I don't think you would have any problems making any of the jackets you have shown in this vlog. sure there is more work but you have made coats and shirts and there is not much more to a jacket, just get started I am sure you will love making any of the jackets, if the jacket is lined it adds another dimension but you are more than capable, good luck. Nancy from New Zealand

[@SecretLifeOfASeamstress]

Aw thank you so much for the encouragement I must just do it haha xx

[@teruldacz]

Amazing crew neck t-shirt pattern is Cozi tee by Petternscout

[@SecretLifeOfASeamstress]

Thank you for that! Xx

[@rhondaziman562]

❤❤❤❤

[@agnetahallberg9845]

❤

[@Bernietheoc]

👏🏻👗

[@SecretLifeOfASeamstress]

Thanks for watching xx

[@Bernietheoc]

👗👏🏻

[@SecretLifeOfASeamstress]

Thanks for watching xx

[@victoriaconstantine-cort3091]

xXX👍👍👍

[@SecretLifeOfASeamstress]

Thank you for watching xx