How To

Ten Top Fashion Tips - start planning

As we enjoy summer, start thinking ahead about your Autumn wardrobe. Sue Locke has some tips on creating the fashion styles.

1.STAYING IN THE BLACK

…… Give a tired pale jacket an instant lift with black ribbon. Stitch it around lapels, pocket edges, cuffs and hems. Try working a large running stitch with embroidery thread for a truly hand-made touch.

2.SHINE ON………

Buying rhinestones can be expensive so hunt around for unwanted jewellery. Take it apart and use it to decorate necks and cuffs.

3. JUST A TOUCH……

Bright bright colours came fizzing down the catwalk this year, however if you find them too overpowering take a tip from Madonna. She added just a hint of gold to her black outfit with stylishly tasselled epaulettes.

4. TIP OF THE MONTH……..SUITS YOU….. 
If you've leafed through the pattern catalogues and aren't sure if a style really suits you take yourself off to the shopping mall. Try on a ready-made garment that's a similar shape before you purchase a paper pattern.

5. LET'S FACE IT…..

Always test cloth against your face before you splash your cash. This way you'll know if the shade compliments you. A good fabric store will be happy to let you have a small sample.

6. ON THE BORDER LINE……

Tartan cloth looks set to make an appearance this autumn. This is definitely one of those fabrics that lends itself to thinking outside of the box. Forget kilts try a neat boxy jacket or a pair of beautiful wide leg trousers with a thick belt and plain top.

7. SIMPLY THE BEST…….

Gorgeous fabric often looks best in the simplest of designs. Coming soon in the August issue of Sewing World there’s a free summer blouse pattern which is the perfect shape.

8. THE LONG NOT THE SHORT OF IT…..

Watch out for some longer straight skirts this Autumn, however do pick a pattern that has a back or side slits for ease of movement otherwise you'll find running for that bus or train impossible!!

9. BLACK AND BLUE……

Who would have thought these shades could be married together? However the designer, Versace has used blocks of these colours for his '08 collections. Imitate his thinking by making a sleeveless dress with the top yoke in an inky blue and the rest in black.

10. A TRUE ROMANTIC…..

A well fitting white shirt is a must-have in any fashion wardrobe but take it through to evening wear by teaming it with a length of white lace worn cravat-style at the neck.