There’s a glimmer of hope…spring is just around the corner. It may be a bit up and down at the moment, but it’s definitely time to start planning our warmer-weather makes. I’ve rounded up my top trends for spring 2021, however, these aren’t clothes for short-lived fads; I’ve chosen trends, styles and patterns that’ll see you through for years to come.
The Two-tones
So easily overlooked, the classic pairing of black and white has been given some oomph in the form of sleek cuts, colour blocking and voluminous shapes.
This trend could be applied to any patterns you have (saving you money, hurrah!), and can be easily worked into your everyday wardrobe. I’m planning to use some white offcuts to make some minimalist tops inspired by Chanel (above centre), and I’ve gone all-in for monochrome in the form of gingham, with purchases from Thimble and Notch, Minerva and Dalston Mill Fabrics.
To the max
There’s something so romantic about the floaty maxi dresses that drifted down the runways. Billowing shapes and sheer fabrics ooze easy breezy glamour. This may not be the easiest to translate into your everyday wardrobe, but definitely one for easy summer dressing, and perfect for post-bbq belly.
The Erdem dress (above left) could be reinterpreted with the Wilder Gown from Friday Pattern Company or the Vita dress from Bella Loves, both of which also give blouse options if the dress is a bit much.
As for the Dolce and Gabbana – not exactly subtle, but you could interpret your own version of this by patch-working together your offcuts and making a tiered skirt. Bonkers but a little bit brilliant.
Wide stride pride
Pack away the skinny jeans (for now), wide trousers are the way forward. These are comfy, fun, and versatile. A couple of years ago I made some wide legged culottes from the Vogue V9075 pattern and they are so great to wear. You can dress these up or down, and the trend applies to jeans and trousers, so you can really put your own spin on this one.
As for patterns, the Claudette Wide Leg Trousers from Dovetailed give volume but maintain the comfort we’ve all become used to with their elasticated waist. The Max Trousers from Lenaline are also awesome; super wide legged and tailored to perfection!
Fruit pastels
No longer sickly sweet, pastels are calming but, depending how you wear them, they can still pack some punch. This trend can be translated into quite classic shapes, like this yellow dress from MSGM Resort, which could be recreated with the Park Lane dress by Nina Lee, or the Solina dress from Named’s book Breaking the Pattern. The Balmain image (below right) just shows how you can mix up your pastels and not look like you fell into an ice cream counter. Love it.
Stripe and ready
Ah stripes. You can’t go wrong with them, can you? Stripes are back, but for what feels like the first time in forever, there isn’t a nuance of nautical.
You really can go to town with stripes. Mix up scale and colour as seen at Dior (above left), switch the direction like at Duro Oluwu (above right), and just have fun. Stripes will always look good, so you’ll get longevity from whatever stripy concoction you choose to make.
And there you have my top picks for the season ahead. I hope this has given you some inspiration and ideas for your sewing plans. If you’ve seen something from the runway that you’d really like to recreate, do let me know as I’d love to see!
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