Fall/Winter 2015 Color Breakdown pt 2

It's officially fall! Welcome to Part 2 of the Fall/Winter Color Breakdown
 
In this part of our breakdown, there are a few deep hues to play off of where we left off (see Fall/Winter Breakdown pt.1) but you will also encounter a few bright colors that really bring out the 70's vibe mentioned in Part 1.


6. Biscay Bay

Amidst the colors that exude warmth and coziness and those that are reflective of the weather of the season, this teal hue does something unexpected: it cools the color pallet. This color is in stark contrast to some of the other colors on this list, making the idea of combining them a bold option to explore.

7. Reflecting Pond

Keeping with the cooling trend, this dark blue shade is a stronger stance on keeping the pallet cool. This color sends a powerful statement of certainty and confidence; acting like a set of armor at times  it announces to the world that you are not to be trifled with.

8. Cadmium Orange

Remember when I mentioned that the 70's were big again? Well, here is undeniable proof! This color, much like Oak Buff (see Part 1), is so 70's I can barely stand it. It's playful and daring and just so much fun; just as I imagine the 70's were.

9. Cashmere Rose

This color is a bit more 60's than 70's and slightly more posh. It brings tea parties and games of badminton on expansive lawns with cherubic statues all about to mind. Use it to soften up a look or to have your own posh moment.

10. Amethyst Orchid

I'm pretty sure this is the color of Daphne's dress from Scooby-Doo; it doesn't get anymore 70's than that. This intriguing color can give your wardrobe and air of mystery while still remaining playful; perfect for a night on the town or a cool cocktail party at home.  

 

We hope you enjoyed the second part of the fall/winter color breakdown.  Share with us your favorite colors of the seasons and what you plan on doing this fall!

Happy Sewing!

Fall/Winter 2015 Color Breakdown pt 1

The time has come to begin transitioning from Summer into Fall. The changing of the seasons does not simply mean swapping out tank tops and shorts for pants and coats (nor does it mean going form cotton to wool); just like the leaves change color, so must your wardrobe. Don't take this to mean that you shouldn't wear a certain color from last season; I wear any color I please regardless of season. But, consider sprinkling in these Fall trend colors to amp up your style. 


1. Dried Herb

This is probably my favorite color. Not just of this season, but of all time. I wear it all the time. Usually this shade of green is thought of as rustic, almost for outdoor use only (i.e. military, hunting) but lately has been taken to a new level with stunning ready to wear looks that encapsulate the robustness of nature while remaining elevated and sophisticated. 

2. Desert Sage

Complete neutrality is what I think of when I see this color and I mean that in the best possible way; it's name alone brings to mind subtlety. I'm a huge fan of this color for the ease with which it pairs with almost any color. However, the impact it can make on it's own is not to be overlooked. 

3. Stormy Weather

I love Fall this year. Most of my favorite colors are trending this year so my wardrobe is pre-made.  This is a staple every year; walk into any department store and you will be bombarded with this shade of gray in the form of sweaters, coats, pants, suits, and anything else you can imagine. The reason it is used so much is because it is a fantastic color. It  exudes strength and resilience and is reflective of  the weather of the season. 

4. Oak Buff

A departure from the the previous  colors on this list, Oak Buff  is brighter and more daring while retaining a mellow feel. This color screams 70's to me and I love that. A lot of the colors and silhouettes this season remind me of the 70's but this color in particular gives me a Farrah Fawcett vibe.  

5. Marsala

A crossover from Spring/Summer, this wine shade is proving why it is Pantone's Color of the Year. It is full bodied, bold, and satisfying- and just like a nice glass of red wine, it makes everything feel warm and cozy. 

These are only the first 5 color trends for fall, there are still 5 to go. Part 2 of this list will be going up soon. So for now, explore these colors and share any other colors you  think belong on this list by following and tweeting at us @FabricAndSewing. To purchase fabrics in these colors and more visit our shops on Etsy and Amazon.

Until next time, 

Horacio

Tweet

Summer Colors, Had Me a Blast!

     It's summer and that means it's time for BBQs, hanging at the beach, chilling by the pool, water balloon fights in the back yard, rooftop cocktail parties and just simply a lot of fun. Whatever your plans are, I'm here to make sure you know what colors to use to paint the perfect image.

1. Toasted Almond

The summer might be tough for drought ridden California almond farmers but the heat is just what this next color relies on. Toasted almond  is in (was it ever out?). This versatile color pairs well with almost anything. Try mixing it with something bright for a pop of color or go monochromatic with it and explore different shades.

Nonoo S/S 2015

2. Strawberry Ice

Keeping with the food theme, the next big summer color is a soft pink tone: strawberry ice. Usually when I think of strawberries and ice, I think ice cream or margaritas (depending on what kind of day I'm having), but this color has the innocence of an ice cream cone with the potential kick of a margarita. Have fun with it and make your best Elle Woods inspired creation. 

Jenny Packham S/S 2015

3. Tangerine

At his point you'll probably realize that I am writing this from inside a Whole Foods. The next trend this summer is tangerine. It's bright, it's saturated, it's bold and it will get you noticed. Just like its namesake, a little bit can really liven things up. But, don't be afraid to just peel away the skin and bite. Remember, fortune favors the bold. 

Korto Momolu S/S 2015

4. Custard 

While I'm in the dessert aisle, I might as well tell you that custard will be big this year. This sweet shade of yellow is sure to make you smile. It is the essence of summer.

Carolina Herrera S/S 2015

5.White

This  color should come as no surprise to anyone. Well, technically, it is the absence of color but this isn't a science blog so I  will not dwell on it; white is in for summer (gasp!). This really needs no explanation but in brief it's light, extremely versatile and extremely wearable: use it for anything from a bikini to a cocktail dress. 

Valentino S/S 2015

6. Black

Sorry "Orange is the New Black" fans but black is still the new black. Maybe not the color of choice for an al fresco lunch but when the nights are warm, get ready to sizzle in black. And it should be noted that you can never go wrong mixing white and black (the peanut butter and chocolate of color combinations).

Fendi S/S 2015

7. Marsala

I would be remiss if I failed to mention the color of the year: marsala. Just as the name suggests, (at least to me) marsala is a wine/brown shade that whispers of an inner playfulness while remaining strong and bold. Yeah, I'll have a glass of that.

Lela Rose S/S 2015

     So, there you have it. My grocery list of what colors you need to have this summer. Hopefully this inspires you to try something new. For fabrics in these colors and more click here.

Until next time!

-Horacio

Tweet

Red, White and Bow

It's almost the 4th of July and it's time for all of us to do our best Betsy Ross impression and hand make all our clothes, decorations and flags...or maybe just wear red, white, and blue while enjoying fireworks with family and friends. But, you can still give an homage to the woman that sewed the American flag by making something yourself!  

Learning to sew is one of those things that no one really thinks about. We all wear clothes (most of the time), but if I were to ask 20 people at the mall if they know how to sew I would get maybe 3 affirmative answers. I personally do not know how to sew, and hate myself for it (as I should). But, until such time that I can make my own clothes from a piece of fabric and an idea, I will have to try to work my way around it.

Here is how anyone can make a bow for any occasion. Use these as hair bows, bow ties, dapper dog collars, accents on dresses, purses, hats; the possibilities are endless. 

You will need a few things first.

-Fabric (1 yard is way more than you'll need for a single bow)
           * There are many fabrics you can choose from to make your bow. The fabric shown is a metallic sequined knit fabric. If you are looking to create something along the line of a bow tie, I would suggest you lean towards a charmeuse  (the smaller bows pictured at the bottom are made with charmeuse). 

-Fabric Scissors

-Glue Gun

-Ruler

Once you have these, it's time to begin:

1. First you will need to cut two pieces of fabric: one large rectangle and one tiny rectangle. Depending on the size of the bow you want to make, the measurements of the fabric will differ. For this hair bow you will need a 12" x 12" square of fabric and a small 1"x 3" strip of fabric.

2. Now that you have cut your fabric place the big piece face down.

3. Fold the fabric into thirds (if you are not using a square piece of fabric, make sure you fold it along the length of the fabric).

4. Once in thirds, fold the sides inward so they meet in the middle. Try to make the sides as even as possible.

5. Flip the fabric over.

6. Pinch the sides in to create your bow. (I pinned it for the picture but you would probably still want to be holding it).

7. Place a dab of  glue in the center, right where the fabric gathers. Apply pressure for about 30-60 seconds to make sure it holds.

8. Wrap your remaining strip of fabric around the center of the bow to secure it. Remember to try to keep the fabric on the backside pinched so you don't get a random flap flying around.Glue the strip closed, securing your bow.

9. Enjoy your bow! 

To get fabrics to make your own bows and more, visit us here.

See you soon,

Horacio


Tweet

The Super(fabric) Friends!

Comic Con is coming up pretty soon and that means there will be countless Batmen, Supermen, Wonder Women and every other member of the Justice League walking about. So, rather than look exactly like everyone else and buying your costume, add a bit of your own personal flair by making your own or embellishing a costume you already have. Here are a few suggestions.

1. Batman

There are a few iterations of Batman from the 1966 television show, to the 1990's cartoon, to the Batman of the Dark Night trilogy. They each have their own style but they also have a couple things in common: a cape and the bat insignia. To create these two iconic pieces, I suggest you use a fabric that is easy to deal with while being heavy enough that it does not look like it's made of construction paper (although if you can pull that off, kudos). Cire Coated Interlock Fabric is perfect for this (it's also pretty good for the utility belt and the briefs). As for the actual body of the costume, it consists of tights, briefs (over the tights) and the top; 70 Denier Interlock Fabric will work for the tights and top. And, if you want to add a bit texture to your costume, lay a bit of Power Mesh over it.

2. Superman

Much like Batman, there are a few versions of the Superman costume. However, there is one version that is most iconic: the red underwear over blue tights. Again, Cire Coated Interlock Fabric is going to be your best bet for the chest insignia and belt.  You can revisit the two fabric combo (70 Denier with Power Mesh over) for the tights, briefs and top however Superman is a far less gritty hero than Batman and a smoother approach might be more to your liking. In that case Honeycomb Pique is what you are looking for. 

3. Wonder Woman

No Justice League is complete without Wonder Woman. The most famous variation on Wonder Woman's costume is no variation at all, it's the classic Linda Carter version that was taken straight from the comic books. The base of this costume will be Stretch Charmeuse. For the stars, golden insignia and gauntlets (unless you have your own)  use Cire Coated Interlock Fabric.

Now that you have a few ideas to get the ball rolling, go forth and dawn your cape or mask or golden lasso and fight crime! Or, just walk around a convention center and look amazing (that's probably safer). For more crime fighting materials click here.

Until Next Time

-Horacio Tweet