Who else was absolutely blown away by the Spring/Summer 2017 collections that were shown during New York Fashion Week? For those who were fortunate enough to attend, or even be in the area, the past week was a non-stop whirlwind of creativity, beautiful design, and trends, trends, trends. While each designer clearly had their own take on the season, there were quite a few trends that dominated the week and were subtly woven throughout each collection. What were a few of the main themes? Purposefully deconstructed work shirts were prevalent throughout the entire show, as were sultry, strategically placed cut-outs. It was also clear that the colour yellow was having a major moment - Proenza Schouler, Chromat, and Lacoste showed off bright and cheerful hues that ranged from frothy lemon meringue to vibrant marigold. But what was our favorite trend of the week? Ruffles. Girly dresses with unabashedly feminine details like bows, pleats, and frills won our hearts, as did the more avante-garde pieces that were shown at Zimmerman. There were ruffles galore at New York Fashion week, and while we still have months to go before it is summer again, there is no reason that we can't incorporate ruffles into our own wardrobes right now. Get your sewing machine ready, because we have tracked down five runway-inspired projects that are perfectly appropriate for fall!
Altuzarra
Photo via Vogue
Proenza Schouler
Zimmerman
Photos via Elle
Altuzarra
J. Crew
Breathing life into this often stuffy staple is simple. Forego the usual, stiff fabrics that are used to make pencil skirts and choose a soft knit in a pattern you love! The ruffled hem adds a feminine touch that is refreshingly retro.
Things You'll Need
- 1.5 yds Knit Fabric
- Measuring Tape
- Sewing Machine
- Machine Needle
- Thread
Off-The-Shoulder Ruffled Dress
Off-the-shoulder dresses were huge this past summer, and there is no reason that you should have to retire them until next year. The ruffled hem and top of the dress lends a bohemian feel to the dress that feels very fall, especially when paired with a cozy cardigan, tights, and a pair of lace-up boots.
Things You'll Need
- Fabric - (lightweight woven fabrics are best)
- Pattern Drafting Paper
- Marking Pencils
- Ruler
- Curved Ruler
- Paper
- Fabric Scissors
- Sewing Machine
- Machine Needle
- Thread
An old, worn out tank top is given an entirely new look with the simple addition of a ruffle at the neckline. The contrast between the femininity of the ruffle and the casual feel of the ribbed tank top is very interesting and is one of the reasons this design caught our eye in the first place! This is a very simple piece to complete and once it's finished, it is the kind of style that can be worn year round, in a million different ways!
Things You'll Need
- Plain tank-top
- Sleeveless shirt that you don't mind altering (men's shirts work great!)
- Fabric Scissors
- Thread
- Sewing Machine
- Machine Needle
Who says ruffles should be reserved for clothing? This ruffled bag is an easy way to incorporate this trend into your wardrobe without being overly precious. It's also an excellent way to use up fabric scraps! Don't be afraid to play with textures - wouldn't leather and silk be a fun combination?
Thing You'll Need
- Plain Canvas Tote Bag
- 4, 4" Fabric Strips
- Embellishments (of your choice)
- Jean Machine Needle
- Thread
Go ahead and call us Goldilocks, but this sweet little t-shirt is not too frilly or over-the-top girly - it's juuust right. The best part? This simple project takes no time to make and is suited for sewers of all skill levels. Go ahead and take your boring old t-shirt to the next level with this fun DIY!
Things You'll Need
- Non-Fitted T-shirt
- Scissors
- Chalk
- Sewing Pins
- Ruler
- Measuring tape
- * Sewing Machine (this project could also be done by hand.)
- Machine Needle (or hand needle)
- Thread
Do you have any thoughts, questions or feedback? We would love to hear from you! Chat with us in the comment section or send us a message at sales@njeffersonltd.com.
