It was late in 2024 ..we were travelling on the East Coast and I was really struggling with the clothes I had packed for our trip. I was feeling like nothing really felt like me...my personal style was out the window...and I wasn't comfortable. I bought a few things along the way... but these too weren't really right. So I started to take notice of the few things I did actually like.. and the colours that I looked best in. I explored my colour palette (I am an autumn - true or deep) ... and found that my style is a relaxed casual. I don't do well with too much frill or puff.
I had a few opportunities to shop for new pieces but I found it was actually tricky to find exactly what I wanted... and because I was now armed with a specific set of personal style rules I didn't want to just settle for things that weren't quite right.
So I decided right then that I was going to sew my own.
The last few months of our trip I began collecting fabrics and pattern ideas and I was itching to begin.
So here is how my 2024 ended.. and all the pieces I made.
It looks a lot. It is a lot. But... I wanted to test patterns and see what I really liked and I used a lot of 'op-shopped' fabrics so the cost was minimal. Its been great research. I know in 2025 I will still be trying out some new patterns... but I love that I now have a better idea of the patterns that suit.
The details: I made 24 items of clothing (plus 2 sets of Pjs for the kids)
The most made patterns were the Safiya Trousers by Tilly and the Buttons and the Cielo Top by Closet Core Patterns I made 3 of both these patterns.
My most favourite pattern is possibly the Clo Bias Skirt by Soften Studio - I've made 2 of these but would love to make a few more.
My most worn pieces would be the Everyday Loungewear Set by Common Stitch and Peppermint Magazine that I made from an old doona cover as a toile - this is the most soft and comfy pair of PJs and I have worn then solidly since their creation.
Two pieces have already made their way to a new home... the Jesse Tee by True Bias looks fantastic on my daughter... but just didn't work for me.... and the Isla Top by Tianas Closet was not a favourite on me either. The pattern is fantastic but the fabric I chose and the puff sleeve felt 'not me'.
I found my most favourite Tee pattern is the Sparrow Tee by Common Stitch... it has a lovely scoop neck and a shape that suits me.
I used 8 different FREE patterns ... purchased 6 new patterns which included a book by Tilly and the Buttons. and a few older patterns I had in my existing stash.
I spent $220 on fabric ... some new pieces but a lot was Op Shopped. That would equate to each item costing approx $9.15
From these 24 pieces there are 9 that I consider favourites.
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