Our Jasmine Envelope Clutch sew along starts in August! So exactly what is a sew along? It's like a long distance meet up. We all work on the same project at the same time but in different cities heck, even different countries. We chat about the project, we share pictures and we work together if you get stuck. Once everyone has their kits or bought their fabrics and supplies we will get started. We will sew a little bit every day or so and I will guide you through the process with detailed posts and pictures. When we are done you will walk away with a brand new clutch purse, maybe a new skill and hopefully some new friends.

How do we start? Easy! Below you will find a swatch sheet of available fabrics suitable for the clutch. All are heavyweight cotton and easy to work with. You can purchase a kit from me for $40 (including shipping) Each kit includes everything you need to finish your clutch excluding thread and of course a sewing machine! Kit includes clutch pattern, outer fabric, lining fabric, interfacing and zipper. Zipper will be coordinated with outer fabric and lining will be something fun. Fabric flower shown is optional and not included in the kit. I will however show you how to make it!

Prefer to purchase your own fabric? Not a problem. You will need to purchase 1 yard each of fabric, lining and interfacing, 14' zipper and thread.

Additional supplies needed are:

• sewing machine
• thread
• iron
• scissors
• measuring tape (if kit not purchased)
• large button, pin back and needle/thread for flower (optional)

Email me your fabric selection and I will forward you an invoice via Paypal. Any questions let me know!

Cheers!
Jackie

Spring styles

I recently had the pleasure of a sneak peek at the new spring fashions at Kohls. It's making me crazy for spring to arrive. I am loving all the bright colors! What's your favorite?

Bold and yummy accessories!

Cute outfit for work.

Simply beautiful!

Colored carpis scream summer.

Sexy!

Perfect dress for everyone.

Cap Sleeve Jacket

Ah the cap sleeve jacket, perfect alternative to a long sleeve jacket when the weather heats up and you still have to look professional. A short sleeve jacket is fun and flirty so have some fun when pairing it with other pieces! Think simple t-shirts, camisoles or how about a ruffly blouse. Don't be afraid to wear it now with a long sleeve top and a pair of dark denims. When choosing accessories look for a bold necklace or a big chunky bracelet.

This black jacket easily transitions to work wear when paired with a pencil skirt and silky blouse. I hear you - what if you don't want to bear your arms?  Look for a short sleeve jacket with arms a bit longer than a cap sleeve. This jacket from Macy's is perfect and it's on sale for $35.99!

What a great look!

And if you sew...on sale for only $3.00 at the Butterick site.

The Sleeveless Trench

I love trench coats! What a classic look that remains strong year after year. On the runways the sleeveless trench was everywhere. But sleeveless? Hmmm not sure about that. To me a sleeveless trench coat defeats the purpose of a coat. Maybe it's because here in Cleveland it's cold more months out of the year than it is warm. But if you want to be ultra trendy this Spring? Go for the sleeveless trench. This trench is from Urban Outfitters for $79.00. Want to save some money? Check out a resale or thrift shop and cut the sleeves off. Interested in a tutorial? Let me know maybe you can talk me into it!

For me I think wearing the sleeveless trench as a dress is the way to go. My favorite is this trench coat dress from Kenneth Cole for $129.00. A bit more than I like to pay for a dress but in white imagine how many looks you could come up with.  Pair it with a bold piece of jewelry or a pair of wedges. You could slip on a pair of flats to create a casual look. You could swap out the belt with a more colorful one, think black or even red.

If you have some sewing talents (or maybe a friend) check out this great looking pattern from Butterick. What do you think about this trend? Would you wear it?

Spring 2011

It's that time! Time to think about Spring fashion trends. This year includes some fun looks and some edgy looks. I have to say I was a bit shocked by some of the looks this season but very happy with others. So what's in store...sleeveless trench coats, capped sleeve jackets, graphic tee's, graphic designer inspired long skirts, high waisted jeans, mixed up prints, military look, sheer layers, neutrals, bold colors and comfy clothes.

Over the next couple of weeks we will attack them one at a time but first my favorites include the graphic tee's and skirts, mixed up prints, anything military inspired, bold colors and of course comfy clothes. I cannot say I am ready to endorse a sleeveless trench or high waisted jeans and honestly I am tired of neutrals (maybe it's because of a very long and cold winter)!

Here are some pic's so you get an idea of what the looks are all about. What are your favorites? What would you avoid?

Sleeveless Trench Coat

Cap Sleeve Jacket

Graphic Tee

Graphic Skirt

High Waisted Jeans

Mix & Match Prints

Military Inspired

Sheer

Neutrals

Bold Color

Comfy