Way back in October I ordered my fabrics with this grandiose idea that I would write about how I planned a fall/winter capsule wardrobe with Cali Fabrics. But then I found out I was pregnant and so started all the joys of the first trimester. Now that that period is ending I am ready to get back to things even though my wardrobe plans have changed drastically.

The first thing I do to get inspired is to scroll through Pinterest, my favorite stores’ websites, and the new season pattern releases. This typically happens near the end of the previous season when I start to feel the urge to start sewing transitional garments. Of course, I also consult the Pantone color forecast and color of the year too. I am looking for what the current trends for the season are going to be and something will strike my fancy. It can be anything from colors to silhouettes.  This season, and last to be honest, it is glen plaid that gets my attention. Which is why this season’s plan started with the Clare Coat I shared back in November with my coat making tips and dip dyeing process.

I make a Pinterest board for each season filled with my inspiration garments. I also start making some quick rough sketches of the pieces and outfits I want to make while also planning out what patterns and fabrics I will use. I try to keep it around six or so pieces that can be worked into what I already have in my wardrobe. I notate those patterns next to each sketch and clip swatches to go with each. I don’t always have specific fabrics in mind for each and that is where I start browsing the Cali Fabrics site to find things that fit in with my plan.

In this case, I knew I wanted to make the way out of print Simplicity 3786. I have made this top once before, 10 years ago, and it was always one of my favorites. Interesting sleeves have been a big trend over the last couple of years and the bishop sleeve seems to be having a resurgence. My other favorite detail of this pattern is the pintucks at the neckline. They seem challenging but I promise they are not. I didn’t have a specific fabric in mind when I decided to make this top so I searched the Cali site for the perfect one. It was successful and I went with this amazing Art Gallery Cotton Lawn with a nature print. It was my first time using an Art Gallery fabric and I can tell you it will not be the last! The lawn is lightweight and works well for this pattern. It is super easy to sew and the print and colors are just divine. P.S. there is still a little of this fabric left so go grab it!

The next piece I made was a hacked version of McCall’s 6844. The inspiration for this came from a chunky knit sweater I saw in a store. It had the large silver grommet detail going down the back and I knew I had to recreate it. I am only an amateur knitter having made scarves and hats, so I knew I wasn’t going to be able to knit this. Instead, I returned to the Cali site to find a suitable alternative. The only requirement I had was that I knew I wanted it to be this shade of purple. What I found was this Lightweight Poly/Rayon French Terry. It is super soft and thin so it is perfect for layering. I am pretty pleased with my overall results compared to the original garment.

This is about when the pregnancy symptoms hit in and I wasn’t able to finish the last two pieces in my capsule, Cashmerette Ames Jeans and a pair of glen plaid overalls. Luckily, Cali recently got in a whole bunch of new designer denims that I have been lusting over so I have some great options for the jeans. These are probably going to be a project for next fall though. Maybe I can come up with a maternity hack for them sooner.