Forget those dusty fashion dictums! “No white after Labor Day”? Please. We’re living in a world where
comfort and personal style reign supreme, and that includes rocking winter whites. Inspired by Vogue‘s
bold stance against outdated rules, and my spouse’s mission to inject color into her wardrobe, we
embarked on a creative journey to redefine fall fashion right here in Gatineau.
The Inspiration: A Wardrobe Transformation
My favorite client (aka, my spouse) decided it was time to break free from the monochromatic grip of
black. While we adore the classic elegance of black, a head-to-toe look can sometimes feel… well, a little somber. The goal? Introduce a palette of complementary colors, perfect for the cooler months.
The Fabricville Adventure: A Treasure Trove of Textures
Our trip to Fabricville in Gatineau was a burst of creative energy. We dove into the fall 2024 collection,
our fingers dancing across luscious knits, cozy wovens, and stunning special occasion fabrics. A
captivating color story emerged: beiges, greiges, and, yes, beautiful whites, punctuated by vibrant
prints.
The Vision: A Versatile Ensemble
Our mission was to create a cohesive ensemble that could seamlessly transition from running errands to
office meetings, travel days, and beyond. We envisioned pieces that could be dressed up or down,
offering maximum flexibility. Inspired by vintage Burda magazines, we chose patterns for a cardigan
coat, fit-and-flare trousers, and a classic blouse with a pleated stand collar. (A mock collar jumper is on
the future projects list!)
The Creative Process: Challenges and Triumphs
The fabric washing and drying process went flawlessly, maintaining the fabrics’ integrity. Then, the real
fun began:
- The Cardigan Coat: A slight hiccup occurred when we realized the pattern was designed for a double-faced knit. A quick fix with facings and seam adjustments saved the day. The horizontal cable pattern presented a unique challenge, which was solved by cutting the pattern vertically and using the selvedge as a finished edge. The interior seams were expertly finished with a wrapped and blind-stitched technique, creating a polished look. We added patch pockets and thread chain belt loops for extra detail. And, before the photoshoot, the cardigan was already stolen and put into daily use!
- The Fit-and-Flare Trousers: A straightforward pattern made for quick assembly. We added a stitched front crease for a crisp look, ensuring these pants would travel beautifully.
- The Pleated Stand Collar Blouse: This spring-summer fabric seamlessly transitioned into fall, thanks to its print and drape. A custom cardboard pleating mold was created for the stand collar, and French seams were used for a luxurious finish. The extra time invested was well worth it, resulting in a versatile and elegant layering piece.
The Result: Winter Whites Redefined
Our mission to embrace lighter, dare we say white, colors for fall was a resounding success. This
ensemble proves that you can break free from fashion norms and create a wardrobe that is both stylish
and functional.
What are your thoughts on wearing white after Labor Day? Share your style tips and experiences in the
comments below! And don’t forget to check out Fabricville for your own creative adventures.
