You can’t deny the power of a good white shirt. They’re easily boxed into being ‘crisp’ and ‘smart’, but the possibilities are literally endless, just have a scroll on any good retailer’s website and you’re swamped with inspiration. Although I’m generally drawn to a bold print (I have been known to wear 6 at a time, but who’s counting?), the lure of the white shirt has got me. Here I’ve put together a few inspiration images from some luxury brands and paired them with patterns so you can hack your own! Allwhite, enough faffing (and enough puns), let’s get down to it…
This preppy shirt from Red Valentino is so gorgeous and I love it! One of my most-made shirt patterns, the Juliette from I Am Patterns, would be perfect to recreate this. I’d curve the collar and add a ruffle, plus little ruffles to the sleeves and add a zip at the back instead of buttons – or just keep the buttons as it’s those front details that are so beautiful! All that’s then needed is a straight necktie which you could then wear with other shirts, too.
Oh, jeez, I haven’t been able to stop looking at this Miu Miu shirt. That embroidered collar is incredible! I’m 100% going to be making my own version of this, and I think it can easily be recreated with any shirt pattern you have – just extend and point the collar and embroider away! I think I’m going to try it with the Vintage Shirt Dress from Sew Over It because it has a V-neck shape already.
This Veronica Beard ruffle shirt is so beautiful, and the shape is really similar to the Saraste shirt from Named’s book Breaking the Pattern. All you need is some broderie anglaise like this from Minerva.
Statement shoulders have been big news for a few seasons now and they’re here to stay! Bella Loves Patterns’ Cologne blouse is up there with the more fashion-forward shirt patterns, and these shirts from Finery (centre) and 3.1 Phillip Lim (far right) echo that amazing sleeve.
Anyone who’s a fan of a bit of drama may be drawn to this from Isabel Marant; I think it’s the perfect example of how using different textures in the same colour can create such an impact. The Bloomsbury blouse from Nina Lee would be ideal to create your own version.
Last but not least, this Acne Studios shirt is the perfect relaxed fit to see you through the current lockdown situation, but would also be perfect for actually going out…like out further than 10m from your front door – remember that? The shape is similar to the Libby shirt from Sew Over It, just add on a nice big pocket, or the New Look 6197 (which I’m currently making).
To finish up here are some other gorgeous shirts for inspiration. Whether it’s just adding some contrast buttons, using a unique fabric type, adding pin tucks or trims, white shirts can be quirky, unique, and so beautiful. Just don’t call them ‘crisp’.
aliceirvine.com 