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For Christmas in 7th grade, my mother bought me a black chenille fabric sweater. It might sound bland, but it seemed magical with its soft warmth and beautiful texture. I wore it to death—till the color faded and the sleeve edges were frayed. It was very loved, and to this day when I hear the words chenille fabric I can almost feel that distinct texture.

Now, knowing the intricate weave of the supple fabric, my appreciation has only grown stronger. The greatest part about chenille fabric? It’s just as beautiful in the home as it is hanging in your closet. If you’re looking to make a plush pillow or a luxe top, it’s the perfect textile for winter. I was particularly inspired by this crimson Alexander McQueen dress—see? It’s not just for blankets and 7th grade sweaters. In fact, it can be incredibly high-fashion. But you can also go as simple as a pillow to dress up your living room (add some contrasting fringe for extra depth!), or a lovely long-sleeve tunic to wear with leggings. At any rate, it’s nice to know this lustrous fabric comes by the yard, for those of us who aren’t expert knitters.

Unfortunately, the fashion industry can often be a wasteful place, so it’s refreshing to find advancements in technology that are making clothing more earth-friendly. One of my favorite results of this movement is Tencel fabric.

Have you tried it? It’s an incredibly versatile textile that is made from wood pulp sourced from sustainable tree farms. It can range vastly in weight and drape, but is always luxuriously touchable. Typically it feels similar to rayon but is touted to be biodegradable. Lately, it’s been turning up in everything from denim mixtures to basic tanks and tees. Sidenote: Nothing makes skinny jeans more happily wearable.

Tencel fabric doesn’t wrinkle as much as rayon (thank goodness!) and it washes easy and breathes even easier (phew!). I like the idea of using solids for airy work-friendly button-ups or a subtle print for a weekend blouse. Tell me, how would you or have you used Tencel? Are you as big a fan as I am? Dish.

For some people, black fabric can read as boring. An LBD is undeniably classic, yes, but is it memorable? It all depends. To me, black is luxurious. It never goes out of style and screams high-fashion—when implemented correctly.

The trick to ensure an impactful use of your dark textiles? Toy with texture. Either start with rich touchable fabric, or start basic and create your own depth. Here are a five ways to make that happen:

1. Pleats. These gems have multiple personalities. They can give a retro feel in a voluminous ‘50s silhouette or they can be dreamy and delicate. Even better, why not try texture on top of texture like this Calvin Klein mini I’m swooning over?

2. Ruffles. Any girly-girl is far too familiar with the joys of ruffles, but they can actually be quite sophisticated. Take this top, for example, it’s polished while still being fun and interesting.

3. Pintucks. This is a pleat’s sophisticated sister. Try them out on a blouse or button-down to add some interest to office wear.

4. Appliques. How crazy elegant is this appliqued satin maxi-skirt from Temperley London? I can’t think of a more versatile evening design, particularly when paired with a white button-down a la Carolina Herrera. The applique petals make it romantic without looking silly.

5. Quilting. Something like these quilted leather jeans may be a bit of a sartorial feat to create, but adding quilted lines to a skirt or an accessory would give some serious dimension.

So how will you use your black fabric?

There’s no better time to load up on knit fabric than in winter. Sure, knits make darling dresses for spring, but they’re also warm, cozy and perfect for layering. Now I’m not suggesting the time-consuming task of hand-knitting your wardrobe this season (though there’s nothing more timeless than a chunky cable-knit sweater). I’m talking about cut and sew knit fabric in rich textures or delicate solids. I’ve gathered some cool project inspiration from the latest trends on the market—each with its own style personality.

The Luxe Knit: Nothing is simpler or chicer than a cowl-neck poncho like this. You’d only need two pattern pieces to replicate this beauty. Simply sew a beautifully draped collar into a rectangle for a handkerchief finish. The best part of stretch fabrics? No fraying so no hem necessary.

The Girly Knit: Here’s another easy one for you. When making a skirt, nothing works better than a thick knit. It ensures a nice “tailored” fit while maintaining a wearable comfort. I loved the simplicity of this high-waist flared number. Can’t you just picture it with opaque tights and your favorite heels? I’ll definitely be making something similar for myself—stay tuned.

The Tough Knit: It’s easy to forget that knit fabric can also be used as an accent on one of your designs. This leather jacket was given an edgy twist with comfy contrast sleeves. Clever, huh?

The Relaxed Knit: In the mood for lounging as much as I am this winter? No need to rely on sweats. Try making a simple faux-wrap maxi-dress like this Tinley Road one. It’s kind of like wearing a blanket but way more fashionable. And fortunately, it would look just as great with boots as it does with sandals.

New Year’s Eve and Everything in Between

New Year’s Eve is the time we get to shine as much as possible. Hello sequins and metallic fabric! In fact, with the holidays in full force, we have permission to do so all of December—day and night. So why not infuse some metallics into your wardrobe this season, be it for the ball drop, your next soiree, or just a day at the office. Here’s how:

1) If you’re throwing a party or three this season, I highly recommend you add some glitz to your apartment with some easy-to-make pillow covers. You can even avoid buttons and zippers with a simple fold-over pattern. I was particularly inspired by this embossed silver style from Missoni. This woven cover from West Elm, on the other hand, is also a polished interior look to try.
2) Not the girly-girl type? You can still join in on the fun with a design like these sophisticated trousers. Pair it with a slouchy cashmere sweater for your work’s holiday shindig—it’s foolproof.

3) Add it as an accent piece like sleeves on a T-shirt or cuffs on a jacket. Subtlety is always a win.

4) Try it on a classic silhouette. Is there anything cooler than a futuristic sheen on an ultra-pretty cut? A flawless choice for NYE, in my opinion.

5) Make it daytime fab in the form of a slouchy sweater with metallic thread. A look like this one will smartly transition from day to night. And hey, it looks pretty darn comfortable, too.

6) For those of us who plan to do our countdown from the safety (and warmth!) or our couches, might I suggest bringing the cheer indoors with some gold, silver, or gunmetal pajamas. A drawstring pattern is simple and would amp up your New Year’s Eve almost as much as that champagne.

So how are you going to spice up your new year? With metallic fabric we hope!

I used to work in design at St. John Knits—a brand where women’s suits were king. Or, queen, rather. Boucle fabric weaves, in particular, were a favorite of businesswomen all over the world. Now, when I see the nubby fabric, I think of ladylike skirtsuits and blazers with pretty gold buttons and precisely frayed edges.

While the tactile textile makes me instantly envision the likes of Jackie O with white gloves and a string of pearls, the fabric is surprisingly versatile. It can be fancied up for the office or it can simply give your weekend wear a luxe feel. Make an upscale impression in a structured tweed jacket or herringbone topper; get cozy in a waterfall cardigan or zippered coat; and go super-feminine in a speckled pencil skirt or cocktail-worthy dress. Believe it or not, it can even create a sporty effect, particularly when you mix it with a contrasting fabric like leather or canvas.

Tips for sewing with boucle fabric? I’ve got three for you.

1) Steam, don’t press, the boucle if you want it to keeps its wonderful 3-D texture.
2) In the same vein, you’ll want to avoid iron-on interfacing and stick to the sew-on kind. Or, better yet, go without any at all to get a softer result.
3) An exposed zipper might be one step to help prevent snagging any loops while closing, but an even smarter step would be to bind your edges with an alternate fabric. Or, for a playful and particularly festive option, buy a matching frayed trim and go sans closures or simply sew on some elegantly hidden hook-and-eyes.

The holidays are in our midst, and with them come a slew of inevitable parties filled with delicious baked goods, smiling faces and loads of style. What more could anyone ask for? If you’re hoping to make the perfect festive piece for your next soiree, I have two words for you: jacquard fabric. The fabric has the sheen of sequins without the risk of tackiness, the formality of satin with much more spirit. Basically, it’s perfectly fancy while still being playful. It also happens to never go out of style.

Need some inspiration? I adore this ‘60s design from Topshop, the silhouette is nostalgic but minimal, allowing for the lustrous fabric to really shine. But don’t be afraid to get more intricate! This is the perfect material to toy with pleats, gathers and ruffles. This draped Marchesa dress proves just that.

On the other hand, vibrant crimson like Ann Taylor’s flounce dress hits just the right holiday note—just picture this with loads of glittery bling. Mhm! As a firm believer that floral is never out of season, don’t resist going girly in a brocade garden of box pleats like this A.B.S. gem. Remember: Red lipstick has the power to winter-ize any look.

Now it’s time for technique. Jacquard fabric is notoriously fray-happy. Again, this is a project where you’ll want to get out that Fray Check. Alternatively, you can also use those French seams we talked about to create a clean finish. You’ll want to cut right before you sew, before those unwoven threads get away from you! Bias facings or serged edges would also be smart solutions.

Otherwise, have fun with this fabric and the beautifully crisp silhouettes it can make.

If you’re stumped on what crafty/creative/sentimental presents to get your loved ones this holiday season, I’m pretty sure I have an awesome solution for you. Fleece fabric. It’s super cuddly, easy to work with and apropos for this time of year.

While it’s simple to cut long strips out of a couple yards of fleece for some no-sew scarves (yay for clean fray-free cuts!), the edges are where you can really take things up a notch. Bust out your serger for a straight finish, or use it to create a lettuce edge like I showed you here. Hand sewing with a blanket stitch would also be a beautiful solution. Here’s a great video tutorial if you need a refresher.

Now for the fun part! Let’s go over some ideas to make each fleece fabric scarf unique:

1. Double up with two different colors or prints. Maybe plaid on one side, with a solid color on the other.
2. Sew on some tassels or fringe.
3. Or simply cut tiny strips in the edges for fleece tassels.
4. Embroider someone’s initials or perhaps a cute word like “love.”
5. Go for the unexpected! Fleece polka-dots are one of my faves.
6. Sew the ends together to make it an on-trend infinity scarf.
7. Or cut out cute hearts, dolphins, owls, to applique on the ends (great for the little ones!).

Here are a couple darling fleece scarves I made for some inspiration. Enjoy!

Believe it or not, fashion is all about plaid fabric right now. From lumberjack flannel to ladylike checkers, street stylers and red carpet walkers alike are eating it up. So guess what, I’m going to supply you with the easiest ways to infuse the trend into your wardrobe (with a little help from your sewing machine, of course).

Easy Accessory Design Ideas:

1) A scarf. It doesn’t get any simpler than a neckwarmer for sewing. Choose a plaid fleece fabric for a quick no-sew project. Just buy a couple yards and cut them into strips to keep all those on your shopping list cozy. A once-around stay stitch will give a cool effect to fray-happy fabrics.

2) A hair bow. This is so girly you could make it for your niece or put it in your hair for a retro kick next time you wear your favorite sheath. Pick any pattern you like and utilize that fray check.

3) A beanie. Find the stretchiest of plaid to make a quick (and warm!) slouchy hat for snow play days.

Easy Dress Design Ideas:

1) A plaid shift. It sounds obvious, but to keep the sewing of plaid simple, opt for simple shapes like a boxy shift dress. Seams will be a breeze to match without risking a jarring uneven lineup at your side. Plus, it’s very mod and can be easily belted to show your figure.

2) Want a tighter fit? Nip it at the waist and finish with an A-line flare.

3) Make a shirtdress. Grab a T-shirt from your drawer and base your design off of it, merely lengthen the pattern to create this laid-back easy to replicate vibe.

Coats (my favorite!) may seem daunting, but there are just three rules to follow to streamline your design:

1) Choose boxy fits—another big trend right now!

2) Go collarless. We all know what a headache collars are to construct, right?

3) Forgo hardware or closures. Waterfall necklines sans buttons are so chic! And you can always add a belt for windy days. Just be sure to choose a plaid that’s as beautiful on the inside as it is on the out.

So how are you going to join the plaid fabric trend this season?

Often, stripe fabric is avoided due to the fear of widening horizontal lines or the bold eye-catching nature of the graphic print. I’m here to tell you, however, that stripes are our friends.

Why?

1) Nothing is more classic. From Audrey Hepburn to Brigitte Bardot, they’ve stood the test of time.
2) They’re surprisingly versatile. Just ask J.Crew: They can be preppy or cozy, edgy or polished.
3) They are flattering. When used for good and not evil (guidelines below).

How?

1) You can never go wrong with vertical lines. They’re lengthening and slimming, I promise.
2) Test out diagonals. Often forgotten, the diagonal stripe can add an interesting edge to any design. I was particularly inspired by this luxe poncho with what looks to be excitingly easy construction.
3) Get loose. Stripes get risky when they hug too tight, but loosely fitted sweaters and blouses like this have just the right cool and comfortable vibe.
4) Go with basic colors. If you fear a headache from your latest creation, stick to black-and-white, nautical navy or neutrals.
5) Have fun! Glam up a basic with unexpected embellishments like sequins for an evening-worthy result.

What do you think? Are you feeling inspired to take on a stripe fabric project? Odds are it’ll be something you can keep around for quite a while.

I keep no secret of the fact I go nuts for classic fabrics, particularly in the coat department. So as temperatures continue to drop (and after a brutal day of hurricane winds at the pumpkin patch with my niece), I’m seriously on the hunt for some timeless winter inspiration. More specifically, I have my eye on anything and everything with houndstooth fabric. Dresses, skirts, blazers, scarves—you name it, I want to make it.

Fortunately, ‘tis the season for the two-tone checkers to thrive. After digging around for ideas from the world of internet shopping, I found some share-worthy favorites. They’re on-trend and fairly uncomplicated to replicate, with your own spin, of course.

It doesn’t get much more mod than a houndstooth shift dress. What I love about this Mango design (aside from the forgiving shape) is the heavy neck and armhole binding. It breaks up the pattern nicely and would give a charming finish to any piece. I imagine wearing this with black tights and ballet flats for a day at the office.

Now, if you want to truly dive into Mary Quant territory, a miniskirt a la Marc Jacobs will do the trick. Make sure to buy some knee-high socks for this baby.

However, if you prefer to go pre-miniskirt era with a little ‘50s style, look no further than Dolce & Gabbana. I’d really love a herringbone dress with a fit-and-flare silhouette hanging in my closet, but at a lower price point courtesy of my sewing machine.

This Theory cocoon coat is another winner in my book. It offers a tailored look without needing a sternly tailored pattern due to its drop-sleeves and oversized build.

If you’re just looking for a fun project, on the other hand, or perhaps some holiday gift ideas, check out the beautiful simplicity of Zara’s frayed neck warmer. All you have to do is order the proper yardage of houndstooth fabric, cut a long rectangle, sew a single “stay stich” one inch inside the parameter, then fray the edges with your fingers. Easy peasy!

I’ve always thought pinstripe fabric was reserved for office suits, blazers and pencil skirts—but there are some new fashion trends that are making me think again. I gathered five unique approaches to the sophisticated fabric that may just make you think outside the lines, as well.

1. A Pinstripe Coat
Sure, those little tailored jackets that perfectly match your pants are nothing new, but this pinstripe coat from Zara is an entirely different idea. It has a tough edge and manages to look impossibly cool with cropped pants and ankle-boots. Plus, it’s way warmer than your go-to blazer.

2. Pinstripe Draw-String Pants
Yes, you read that right. I’m talking drawstring pinstripes. I loved Stella McCartney’s clever combination of the meeting-worthy motif with a cozy jogging fit. Cuts down on a lot of complex construction pressure, too, doesn’t it?

3. Pinstripe Shorts
It’s no longer summer, but a proper pair of shorts like these would look both business appropriate and super stylish when worn with tights and pumps. Bonus points if you make a matching topper for a darling short-suit.

4. A Boxy Pinstripe Tee
A basic top like this ASOS shell is not only a breeze to make, it’s a great way to funkify the classic pattern. Lengthen the sleeves or lower the neckline, just hold onto that boxy fit for a street styler vibe.

5. An Asymmetrical Skirt
If pinstripes are all about being orderly, mix things up with an asymmetrical hem like this Salvatore Ferragamo wool skirt. This can be applied to blazers, blouses and shirtdresses to give things an artistic touch.

Chime in! Which creative pinstripe fabric style is your favorite?