Winter is full of holidays and holiday events that call for slightly more formal or festive attire than what we normally don. Below, we have some suggestions that may help with the age-old question of, "What should I wear?". These suggestions range from more formal ensembles to separates that can add a pick me up to the classic staple pieces in your wardrobe. And, we are including fabric suggestions and sources for each pattern. We hope you feel fabulous at the many events from the office party to parade, or from a ceremony to celebration. Whatever tradition you follow, we wish you warmth and joy!
Spice it up with Separates
We all have our favorite go-to basics. Here are some ideas to refresh your style!
The Nepali Blouse is traditionally made of velvet. Need I say more? This wrap and tie blouse drapes nicely and is a great pick me up for any closet. This could be dressed up or down to suit your needs.
Stone Mountain and Daughter Fabrics has some beautiful silk/rayon velvets that would be perfect!
126 Vests form Greece and Poland
The mid-calf Greek vest stands out to me the most. It would be great in various fabrics ranging from lighter weight to a sturdy wool or blend. I've been noticing a lot of longer jackets and dusters this fall, so this is very on-trend!
Vogue Fabrics has beautiful wool boucle coating, designer wool fabric, and wool flannel.
This pattern has so much potential for expressing your creativity and style. Try this pattern to create a one of a kind wearable art piece with function and style that is perfect for the holidays!
Let you imagination run wild with this one! Hand-woven pieces are great in this; holiday themed are fun; or make from some classic, dark wool solids.
The Chinese Jacket pattern is a versatile design. The pattern features three lengths. It that could be constructed in a vibrant, rich colored silk to wear as a top or even a lightweight wool as outerwear.
Dresses and Complete Looks
This beautiful pattern can be crafted to a more formal garment if desired. The tunic has the flow of a dress and the pants drape nicely underneath. Gorgeous in a silk brocade, and certainly a showstopper at your holiday gathering.
Marcy Tilton has some gorgeous brocades that would be fabulous for this pattern (or for the 114 Chinese Jacket above). Fabric for this pattern should be more flowing, or have more drape, than fabric for 114 Chinese Jacket.
I can't stop envisioning this dress in a silk velvet. The option of hemming to "street-length" would modernize the look as well.
Michael Levine has a huge selection of silk velvets (at a reasonable price).
This pattern would be lovely in a lightweight wool or corduroy. The pattern can be made as a dress or shirt. It also has great potential for handwork and decorative stitching - perfect to add winter or holiday themed embroidery. If you have any mother-child pairs,the 110 Little Kittel pattern is just a child-sized version of this.
Beautiful wale corduroys at Harts Fabric, here.
This elegant dress is a stunning option. It can be made as knee length, mid-calf, or ankle length. This would be a lovely vintage look to ring in the New Year with style.
Perfect in a rayon crepe, like these from Harts Fabric.
Who's ready for some fun? This pattern already has the instructions for an alpine applique! Or make your own holiday applique for this skirt (ornaments, tree, snowflakes, etc.). Perfect for any event where festive clothes are needed! The sweater will keep you warm on cool days (also come with a winter scene!).
Fun holiday themed fabrics here from Fabric Depot would work for making the skirt, or shirt, or for making a cute applique.
Hi Molly, Doesn’t Ivy look beautiful in the lovely dress!
I’m so sorry to hear about your difficulties. Please know that my thoughts are with you all.
love Anthea xx
just wanted to let you know that everytime i tried to click the link for the glamour dress it took me to the black forest smock instead.