Fall is all about layers, texture and color and we love seeing how we can combine all three in our seasonal wardrobe. In planning our fall sewing we kept coming back to five staple patterns that create an amazing palette for transitioning into the colder months. With clean lines, classic styles and effortless versatility, these patterns are sure to be favorites in any handmade wardrobe!
Pick #1—Gallery Tunic & Dress from Liesl + Co.
Part of planning your fall wardrobe is figuring out how to deal with the unpredictability of the weather and temperature. A good base layer is the first place to start! Liesl + Co.’s Gallery Tunic is a tried and true pattern that combines a feminine silhouette with the slightly oversized comfort that everyone loves these days. This classic top is great on its own or can easily be layered with a cardigan or jacket. Best of all, the pattern also includes a dress length for even more versatility!
Suitable for a wide range of woven fabrics, from drapey rayons to crisp shirtings, the Gallery Tunic adapts beautifully to whatever you choose. Try a cozy flannel for extra warmth this fall or for easy layering, a soft linen blend makes a great wardrobe staple..
Pick #2—Tabor V-Neck from Sew House Seven
A stand out favorite already this season, Sew House Seven’s Tabor V-Neck is a great choice for layering tees and sweaters. Loaded with possibilities, this pattern includes different necklines, sleeve lengths and hem options to mix and match for your own unique look. This is a great choice for batch sewing, you won’t just want one!
The relaxed style of the Tabor pairs well with a variety of knit fabrics. The only guideline is to stay away from knits with too much structure or stability. Think comfort and drape! We love it paired with pretty much any sweater knit, especially the rib and thermal textures. For more of that classic tee look, try a jersey knit or even a jersey-weight French terry.
Pick #3—Kimono Jacket from Wiksten
Armed with a good layering base, the outer layers is where you can have a bit more fun with the look and style. Keep things neutral and classic or be a bit more adventurous and bold! The Wiksten Kimono Jacket is a great choice for an essential fall outer layer. Not too heavy or too light, it offers large pockets, a range of lengths and can even be made full reversible. Oh, the possibilities!
The versatile style of the Wiksten Kimono Jacket extends to its fabrics options. Suitable for just about any woven, the choices are limitless! For a drapier, more casual jacket, try a textured rayon or linen blend. For a more modern, sophisticated look go with a combination of heavier cotton or linen shirtings (or even a corduroy), especially in total neutrals. Or for a warmer, true outwear feel don’t be scared to try a lighter wool coating, boucle or jacquard. For any of these versions, try using flannel for the lining, adding a little extra warmth!
Pick #4—Laurelhurst Cardigan from Straight Stitch Designs
One can never have too many drape front cardigans! Not only do they make amazing fall layers that pair with just about anything, they are also like a secret blanket you can actually wear out of the house. Straight Stitch’s Laurelhurst cardigan is a great pattern choice for this style and it is an incredibly fast and easy sew. Win, win!
To really maximize the look and feel of the Laurelhurst, we tend to stick with light to medium weight sweater knits. You don’t want anything too thick or that doesn’t drape well. Experiment with different fabric contents, those with rayon will offer a bit more drape and those with wool more warmth. Looking for more of a casual look? Rayon and cotton jerseys or jersey-weight French terrys are a great choice!
Pick #5—Lander Pants from True Bias
The cooler temperatures of fall open up a whole range of different options for pants and bottoms! It is a great time to play with color, texture or line and step out of your comfort zone, even if it is just a tiny bit! Our go-to choice this season is True Bias’ Lander Pants—an amazing canvas to really show off your fabric choice while maintaining the classic silhouette.
Designed for a range of non-stretch bottom weight fabrics, we love the Landers paired with soft corduroys, unusual denims and classic twills. If you prefer your pants with a bit of stretch, we have seen lots of great versions with stretch denim or twill and just few adjustments to the pattern sizing.
That rounds out our Top Five indie patterns to sew this fall. Hopefully that helps narrow down a few choices for your must-have sewing list! We put together a few specific fabric suggestions for each pattern in our Top Pick collection, so be sure to check those out.
Happy Fall Layering!
Michelle