Colour Trends Spring 2015

I always look forward to the introduction of the spring and fall fashion trends. I love getting the huge editions of  Vogue, Harper's Bazaar and Elle in March and September and pouring over them for inspiration. Hand in hand with the fashion trends are the colour choices for each season. Pantone Inc. is a U.S. colour authority and they released their spring colours several months ago. The Fall 2015 colours were released a few weeks ago just prior to NY Fall Fashion Week. Pantone's colour of the year is called Marsala and we'll see this colour transition from spring/summer into fall/winter.

Pantone offers lots of great information on their website:  http://www.pantone.com/pages/fcr/?season=spring&year=2015&pid=11 including a video explaining the influences that determine their colour pallette and how to pair up some of these colours.

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This season there is a move toward the cooler and softer side of the color spectrum. An eclectic, ethereal mix of understated brights, pale pastels and nature-like neutrals take center stage as designers draw from daydreams of simpler times. Remembrances of retro delights, folkloric and floral art, and the magical worlds of tropical landscapes restore a sense of well-being as we head into warmer months.

“Many feel compelled to be connected around the clock because we are afraid we’ll miss something important. There is a growing movement to step out and create ‘quiet zones’ to disconnect from technology and unwind, giving ourselves time to stop and be still. Color choices follow the same minimalistic, ‘en plein air’ theme, taking a cue from nature rather than being reinvented or mechanically manipulated. Soft, cool hues blend with subtle warm tones to create a soothing escape from the everyday hustle and bustle.”

Leatrice Eiseman Executive Director, Pantone Color Institute^®

Even though there is nearly a shade from every colour group included in their spring selection, you won't likely rush out to replace your entire wardrobe. But accessories are a great way to introduce some of the newest colours. And for me, jewellery is my favourite accessory and I will definitely be looking to incorporate some of these trendy colours into my designs. Check out these lovely pieces using the 2015 spring colours.

  Absolutely gorgeous....my favourite colours for 2015 are the Classic Blue, Glacier Gray, Tangerine, Custard and Marsala. Can't wait to see all of the lovely colours in stores this spring!

Take care.....Marian  xo     

Who Knew My Hats Would Be So Popular?

I think they're adorable, but initially I wasn't sure there would be much interest in a cloche, a 1920's style hat. But, I couldn't resist-I had to make a few and see what happened. I decided to use velveteen and started off with a claret coloured fabric that I finished with a black lace brim and a handmade chiffon rose on the side. When I listed it on Etsy it was quick to get noticed and has become my most popular item.

The cloche hat is one of the most recognizable fashion accessories to come out of the Roaring Twenties. Originally invented in 1908 by French fashion designer Caroline Reboux, it took more than a decade before the cloche became all the rage. Cloche is French for "bell" which the hat borrows it's shape from. It's a snug fitting hat that sits low on the forehead just above the brow, which is not a traditional fit that we are used to today. Because of its popularity, many new hairstyles were also inspired by the hat including the iconic bob. The style was the perfect frame for the the hat.

I'm sure that shows such as Downton Abbey and Boardwalk Empire, as well as the remake of the Great Gatsby, have increased their popularity.... and my interest in experimenting with lots of new styles. I think I have approximately 20 different styles in a variety of colours, with some lovely spring inspired ones that I plan to debut on Etsy and the Women's Lifestyle show in London, Ontario in March.

I have also decorated some with vintage beaded applique trim salvaged from 1920s dresses, and can't wait to show them off. Its always so much fun to see people's reaction when they first see my collection of hats at shows. Most women can't resist stopping in to take a look and it doesn't take much convincing to get them to try one on, They are always so surprised to see how flattering they are. I especially love when a husband encourages his wife to stop in and try on a hat--so much fun and lots of laughter!

If you ever have the opportunity to try one on-treat yourself....its guaranteed to put a smile on your face. Dressing up is so much fun and for a few minutes you can imagine you're a flapper, or one of the elegant Downton ladies. Who knows, you may not be able to leave it behind!

       

 

     

     

   

Take care.....Marian  xo     

Vintage Patterns

I've been sewing since I was a kid and still recall some of my first projects. Making clothes for my kid sister's doll was my first experience at making clothes. No patterns, no purchased fabric...just some old dresses that my Mom was ready to part with, a measuring tape, a scissor and some pins. I remember taking measurements and drawing a pattern right onto the old dress. Crude, but it worked. I loved to sew and my sister loved dressing her doll in the new outfits. Admittedly some of the necklines were a little snug, and sleeves a little short, but the doll never complained and neither did sis!

As the years passed and I had two of my own little dolls to dress, I loved to making them outfits to wear for special occasions. When I started working I progressed to making some of my own outfits and even made a feminine tuxedo that I wore to a work Christmas party. And then I just stopped sewing. I don't remember when or why...just got busy with life I guess. There were some Hallowe'en costumes along the way, and some home decor projects, but it's been a long time since I've made any clothes for myself (or any dolls either).

During all of my trips to the fabric stores picking up material for my shop's hats, ties and handbags; the desire to sew has slowly creeped back in. The absolutely gorgeous fabrics are such a huge temptation.And then one day I stumbled across some vintage patterns and now all of the pieces have come together. I've purchased a few patterns and hope to add to my collection. I think they would make great birthday gifts (just in case any family members happen to read this). I've bought a few through ebay, an antique market, and also found an excellent shop on Etsy where you can download PDF versions of  patterns. Mrs. Depew, sells patterns of vintage clothing styles from the various decades. By using a condensed pattern, and a set of ruled guides that are included, you can duplicate the pattern in your size. You can find the shop on Etsy at www.etsy.com/shop/Mrsdepew.  I have some lovely vintage fabric that dates back to the 80's that I'd love to use. Maybe the Mrs. Depew pattern below with an ivory collar and cuffs?

I also found a number of reproduction pattern and instructional booklets that show how to make vintage styles from the '20s. Women of the era were taught to sew, and using their own specific measurements, could draft their own patterns from the instructions given in the booklets. Claims that a "One Hour Dress" are possible are confirmed by past customers so I'm going to give it a try. I purchased the blue floral fabric in the picture and plan to use it for my own "One Hour Dress".

This last pattern was purchased on ebay. The 1920s era coat has buttons that are set at a drop waist height.  I love the silhouette and style and have decided on a dark brown jacquard velvet drapery fabric for a dramatic look. I'm considering a faux fur collar to complete the look. 

Some challenges ahead, but I can't wait to get started. I look forward to sharing my progress with you....wish me luck!

Take care.....Marian  xo