Sign In
Help me expand The Wardrobe Architect
So. A couple weeks ago, we wrapped up our 14 weeks of The Wardrobe Architect series, and in that time I’ve learned so much – not just from my own explorations, but from all of you. Your comments, moodboards, blog posts, and discussions have really got me fired up about this topic, and the feedback has been so valuable.
I also feel like I have a lot more to say. We’ve covered a lot in these few months, but a blog post can really only go so far. I’d like to dig deeper and create something more out of it.
I’m not sure what that is yet. Maybe a book. Maybe a toolkit of some kind. A class? Who knows.
What I do know is that I’d like your help:
- If you’ve gone through the series with me, or are continuing to go through it now, give me your feedback. What did you want to hear more about? What’s missing for you? What was the most helpful part?
- Also, I’d love to find a few of you to be “case studies,” to show how this whole process worked out for you. If you’d be willing to do that, let me know that in the comments too.
- Finally, if you’d be interested in this book/toolkit/whatever when it comes out later on and want to stay in the loop about it, enter your email below.
I’ll send out very rare emails about it (maybe one every couple months), but I’d love to give you a first crack at anything I do produce, and ask for some occasional feedback.
Comments
Lisa
May 15, 2014 #
I loved this project and hope you do more of this kind of stuff! I’d also live to see you share your capsule wardrobe (though I still need to do the same on my own blog). I especially liked your focus in finding one’s own personal style, and the perfect timing of bringing out the Moneta and Mabel dresses, which work so well as easy-to-make wardobe staples.
In the future I’d love to see more on how to make a capsule Wardrobe really modular, where almost everything goes together so that lots of outfits can be created from a few items (that’s the biggest difficulty I had with my own capsule wardobe.)
I’d love to be a case study!
Elle
May 15, 2014 #
ME ME ME! I’d love to be a case study :) I think I’m a good candidate because I’m relatively new to sewing, and I started doing it precisely to build the perfect, workable wardrobe for myself. I struggled a little in the beginning, succumbing to the usual lures of prints and silhouettes that weren’t quite right for me, and which resulted in me not wearing much that I made. The Wardrobe Architect segued right into Me Made May, and I’m finding it to be relatively easy for myself to make up workable outfits comprised of things I’ve made myself.
The most helpful components for me were defining what colors and prints I like vs. ones I will wear, determining silhouettes and style icons and translating that into what individual items I need to make/buy for myself. For example, I think that a tiny nipped-in waist and full-skirt is a great look on Audrey Hepburn, who I love, but the Wardrobe Architect made me confront the fact that I feel a bit like I’m playing dressup when I try to do it myself, which is why all the full skirts I’ve made languish in the back of the closet.
Natalie
May 15, 2014 #
I found it to be incredibly helpful and would love to be a case study. I am a newbie as well and it’s been challenging figuring out pieces to sew that I like and will actually wear. This project came at the perfect time in my sewing education!
Rebecca
May 15, 2014 #
I really loved the whole series and found it so helpful in planning out my wardrobe sewing. I found the silhouettes/shapes, core style and capsule wardrobe posts the most useful and practical for my planning. The worksheets were great to- I’d love to see more of those and maybe expanding for different activities (swim, fitness, undergarments etc.) and seasons and how to layer looks. I’ve loved making the moodboards- I have quite a few now on pinterest which I’m finding so useful to look back on before I plan out a project. I’ve noticed my makes are so much more cohesive now. I think a book would be wonderful! I’d also love to be a case study :)
Linda
May 15, 2014 #
I haven’t completed your ‘Wardrobe Architect’ yet, but have printed out the worksheets to do soon, maybe when I do a switch over from winter to summer. Really excited to hear you want to do more. I’d love it to be an online class.
Jessica
May 15, 2014 #
The Wardrobe Architect was very helpful for me as well. I liked breaking it down into tiny parts, to keep the project from feeling so overwhelming. It has also been a great help planning my sewing projects, because I have a better idea of what I really want to wear, and what I need to fill out my closet.
One big problem for me is trying to find an overall cohesive vision or style for my clothing. I have such different needs for different parts of my life that it feels like I have separate wardrobes for each area. Some of this is universal (most people don’t wear their cocktail dresses to work), but mine feels very polarized. I had a lot of trouble with the silhouette exercise because that is not how I usually think about my clothing.
For the future, I would really like help in how to incorporate different pieces into my existing wardrobe. Like “oh, you feel great in this kind of dress? Maybe next you should try this…” Also, types of fabrics or textures (I am also a knitter, so I really think about this). Additionally, how to incorporate personal style into strict dress codes or uniforms.
And I’m in Seattle, but I’d love to be a case study.
MarrieB
May 15, 2014 #
I think the series is great, and even though I haven’t officially competed the worksheets, I still found it very useful to think about. The only additional element I’d like to see added is an expanded section on footwear. I struggle with incorporating both cute shoes and a pair of practical -walk around all day- kind of shoes in a capsule wardrobe.
Jessie
May 15, 2014 #
I haven’t formally started the project yet because the timing wasn’t good for me when you first introduced it. But I have been following along and doing some thinking, and I’m really looking forward to starting! I would love to be a case study, and, since I would be starting from scratch, could document the process really carefully, if that would be helpful. I LOVE taking notes. :)
Jenny
May 15, 2014 #
I really enjoyed this series. I found that the work sheets were really useful. I have quite a well defined style, but it was interesting to see how much of a challenge I found it to put that style in to words. But the result of doing the wardrobe architect has made me far more productive in my sewing. I have been filling in needed gaps, streamlining things a lot more and have cleared out the “clutter” in my wardrobe. I would be happy to be happy to be a case study. I am very interested to see how all this developes and would like to help if I can.
Laura Lee
May 15, 2014 #
The wardrobe architect helped with my organization and spring projects! {applause for a fantastic series} When shopping for fabric, I now stop & think back on the lists I made, instead of getting carried away with the moment when I find fabric to die for. In my opinion: looking at all of your patterns over the years you have actually developed the basic pieces for the wardrobe series, expanding each pattern into other key basics with just a few alterations?
Ledys
May 15, 2014 #
I *loved* the Wardrobe Architect!! I eagerly awaited the posts every week, and I especially liked seeing it in action through your own examples of what you do and what you would wear. I find that, sometimes, sewing can become a little overwhelming because there are just so many choices–more so, even, than when you go shopping. Thinking in terms of a wardrobe, a collection, if you would, really helps me not waste my time or money making things I won’t wear (and, as a mom of three under six I have so little time, plus I have to alternate between my own sewing and my children’s ;) )
I loved all the posts, especially your explanation of silhouettes, uniforms, how many to have of each, prints, and overall style. It’s been hard for me to pin down my style, but wardrobe architect helped a lot to identify exactly what things I like, what details, and what I gravitate towards. After the series I went through my fabric stash and realized that some fabrics I had not gotten to sew, and thought I loved, I don’t even like anymore and go with nothing in my wardrobe!
I would love to see more on identifying your style and what looks good on you, how you can tell. I found your explanations on how silhouettes/colors/different fabrics made you feel very helpful, and I would love to see more of that.
Finally, I would *love* to be a case study!! We all will, I think ;-) a little about my background: I am 32, have three kids, have been sewing for about 9 years though only in the last four years or so have I really began to consistently sew. I was born in South America, so it’s always hard to find information about what colors look good on me because of my coloring and complexion which is not very dark nor very fair but just very medium with very dark eyes and black hair!!
Anyway, sorry to ramble on at length–I am very grateful for all you do for us in the sewing community. Not only do you help us understand sewing tools available to us, but you help us use those tools to create things that make us feel great and comfortable with ourselves! Thank you so much!!
Amber
May 15, 2014 #
“For the future, I would really like help in how to incorporate different pieces into my existing wardrobe. Like “oh, you feel great in this kind of dress? Maybe next you should try this…” Also, types of fabrics or textures (I am also a knitter, so I really think about this). Additionally, how to incorporate personal style into strict dress codes or uniforms.”
I really like Jessica’s ideas! Visual examples are great.
Also, on one part of the series your linked to this post (http://into-mind.com/2013/08/25/proportions-catalogue/). It would really be cool to talk more about that. That’s were I got really lost. I guess I was paralyzed by all of the different options and had a hard time evaluating my own wardrobe.
Sarah
May 15, 2014 #
If you still need case studies, I’m happy to be one. I’m just now starting the Wardrobe Architect and can document however you need me to. It’s been a really great and helpful exercise in streamlining as I prepare to enter a new phase in life, and I’m happy to do my bit to say thanks!
Tina
May 15, 2014 #
I found out some interesting things. The most helpful was that I may love things on other people, but not on myself, so I don’t necessarily have to try to make them work for myself. Instead, I can stick to what does work for me.
For example, I love straight skirts with large waistbands on other people. When I’m wearing them, the waistband moves down and the tightness on my hips makes me feel self conscious. I’ll stick with circle skirts and gathered, full skirts because I know I feel good in them.
RavenNemain
May 15, 2014 #
It was actually the first step couple steps I found the most helpful – I especially enjoyed brainstorming words that represent me, or the “best me I can be”, and then finding inspiration images to accompany them. I really tried to be less literal in my images, going more for fictional characters whose traits I admired, images of galaxies, that sort of thing, than traditional “style icons”. (In fact, the step where we identified people whose style we admired was definitely the one I found the most challenging.) It was actually incredibly helpful to step back and make the connections between personality and style more clear. It was also a lot of fun!
RavenNemain
May 15, 2014 #
I forgot to say, I also really appreciated that this was about celebrating ourselves and our uniqueness, and NOT about hiding or disguising things we are ashamed of. Too many wardrobe and fashion guides play on that sense of shame, and on what we “shouldn’t” or “should” wear if we are short/tall/busty/pear-shaped/skinny/fat, etc. Thank you so much for keeping this positive and affirming.
Steelheart
May 16, 2014 #
Raven, I think you did it absolutely right with your “style icons” — it’s whoever or whatever is inspiring to you, for any reason. (Or at least, I hope it is, because I don’t want to “dress like” anyone else!)
Beth B.
May 15, 2014 #
First of all, I’d love to be a case study! I’ve followed along since the beginning and have lots of notes/blog posts/moodboards for each step.
I found the most helpful part to be selecting colors (both a larger group and then narrowing it down for a capsule collection). Settling on a color scheme has dictated my fabric purchases and made me a much happier sewist. Figuring out silhouettes is a close second to colors. With those two pieces of information I have a much better wardrobe, not to mention a more thoughtful fabric and pattern stash.
I would have liked more information on incorporating prints (especially how to deal with them when they don’t “fit” your color scheme). And perhaps some more about makeup/hair (I read a lot about that on Into Mind and loved it).
Cheryl
May 15, 2014 #
I don’t sew, but I am writing a phd dissertation involving fashion, so I have some vested interest in your blog and this topic. I fell upon the wardrobe architect when you were a few weeks into it through bloglovin. I lost a lot of weight in 2012, and am at a healthy weight for the first time in my life, and I kind of went nuts on my credit card the first year at my goal weight, buying all sorts of clothing sizes and styles I couldn’t wear before. I went from a very feminine/anthropologie aesthetic to a kind of helmut lang/rag and bone androgynous, simple one. The thing is, I couldn’t quite figure all that out until I fell upon your wardrobe architect. The core style board, the colors palette, all of it was so helpful to really think about who I am and what I want my wardrobe to look like. I’m still learning and still trying to shop less, but I’m getting there. I shared WA on my blog (it’s a weight loss blog on the site I used to lose weight) and it was really well received. I think a toolkit, or interactive set of pdfs would be great (perhaps something that had an interactive color wheel, outfit examples, links to pinterest, etc). Anyways, thanks for taking the time to make such an accessible way to think about our wardrobes.
Chantal
May 15, 2014 #
I’ve absolutely loved following along with the series – I looked forward to the new posts every week! Like everyone else, I would love to be a case study! I’ve been sewing for just over a year, and I tend to get distracted by new patterns and fabrics, but the exercises have really kept me focused on what I will actually wear, and which looks help me express who I am. I’ve gone through the process for my spring sewing plans, and I’m just about to start for summer. These days, any time I sew something I think about whether it fits with my wardrobe plans for this season or the next. It’s been invaluable.
I would buy a book like this in a heartbeat! Even though I’ve done a lot of the work already, it would be neat to have a little workbook with colour swatches, silhouettes, and a place to sketch ideas. That would be so much fun to play with! I loved the whole series, but I especially enjoyed planning the capsule wardrobe (week 9). I would love more information on that and how to layer effectively for those of us in temperamental climates. What I wear in the morning is not usually what I wear in the afternoon!
Thank you so much for putting this series together. I can’t wait to see what it becomes!
Rachel Hilborn
May 15, 2014 #
I think the Wardrobe Architect would lend itself beautifully to an online class ala Creativebug or Craftsy. I confess I followed the thought process faithfully but did not use all the print outs to do so. That being said, I’m very decisive & I think all the printables are retreat tools to include with the class. I would love to be a case study, if need be I’ll be a better student and complete all the materials :). And I would love to see what you’re working on as your concept evolves. Good luck!
knitmo
May 15, 2014 #
This project has really helped me figure out how to coordinate a wardrobe that works for my budget, fits my body, how I live and the activities I partake in. I would have identified my level of competence in assembling a wardrobe as “competent, only with granimal like system.” This process allowed me to develop my own granimal system that allows me to evoke the feelings I want, and at the same time meet the needs of my environment. I would be interested in being a case study, as well.
I’ve really identified my needs in my wardrobe, and have decided what I need to sew/purchase and have started on that path — now I just need more uninterrupted time to sew/adjust my new patterns I bought to fill very specific needs in my closet. Once adjusted, I anticipate these new patterns will become TNTs, because they are so classically me, and to make them in a variety of colors or views is likely to happen. I also realize that much of my summer capsule wardrobe will translate into a fall/winter one. I am beginning to plan for that now.
Areas I would like to see more work in is accessories. I would like to have the same thoughtful discussion about what accessories work for your life, how they may fit into your key words. I can put a top/bottom together or a dress and jacket, but I sort of flounder when picking necklaces or scarves — although I have reduced my fear of scarves lately. I can pick accessories to meet my needs: ie sunglasses to protect my eyes, gloves and coats to keep my body warm, but pure accessories make me feel like I am a little kid playing in mom’s jewelry box. For example, statement necklaces — I always feel like they are wearing me, instead of the other way around.
To use a cake analogy: I see accessories as icing on the well frosted cake. But I feel like the best I can put forward are a few sprinkles — they work, are sort of festive and show an effort — but I don’t know how to make icing flowers or write in script. I can ice the cake nicely — cover up the crumbs, maybe a crack in the cake, but I don’t know how to take it to the next level for people to really say “Oooh that is a nice cake.”
Melissa O.
May 15, 2014 #
I agree with Lisa the Knitter. I would love a more in-depth lesson on finding & making pieces that can all be mix & match without having a monochrome wardrobe. It would be great to have 20-30 items that I can switch-a-roo into 100+ combos. Right now I have very little of that going on. I think much of the reason for this is that I’m short, a little fluffy, & big chested, so it’s difficult for me to find clothes that fit. I’m still somewhat new to sewing my own clothes, & so far the only pattern alteration I’m anywhere close to good at is the FBA. I need to learn a lot more to fit my body properly. Because of my difficulty finding the proper fit I would also love to see the silhouettes lesson expanded.
As far as format goes, I would prefer a book or DVD. I’ve signed up for several classes at Craftsy & other websites, but I never get very far into them no matter how great they are. I use my books A LOT & continue to pull them out for refreshers over & over. Plus, I can hold onto a book for years. I can’t make Craftsy keep a class on their server indefinitely whether they say it’s “forever” access or not.
I would definitely like to be a case study so I can get this closet of mine under control & finally feel good in my clothes.
Meli
May 15, 2014 #
I loved this series and found it very helpful. I think I would add more/talk more specifically about defining who you are now vs who you want to be, and how we should factor that in to wardrobe choices.
Tiffany
May 15, 2014 #
I followed all of the exercises and found it to be a useful exeperience. However, I still had so much trouble with finding my sytle and silouhettes. I love certain looks and style of clothes, but they don’t necessarily look good on me and/or make me feel comfortable. I think it doesn’t help that most of the models out there just aren’t the same body shape I am – at least sewing blogs help there.
I also agree with Cheryl above that some interative tools could help.
Tiffany
May 15, 2014 #
Oh, and I forgot to add that I would like to be a case study.
Steelheart
May 15, 2014 #
I ADORED this series. It’s made a HUGE difference in how I dress and present myself. I have more confidence in how I dress than I ever have. And, not to be totally corny, but I learned a lot about myself! I learned WHY I like the things I like, and what specific features of clothing are essential (or attractive, or anathema, or indifferent) to me. These were things I always knew unconsciously, but never consciously realized. I also learned why I don’t like a lot of the things that heaps of fashion books say “everyone with this body type looks good in this” or “everybody needs this” — they don’t go along with my sense of style at all!
The most helpful parts for me:
– the Five Words. They explain all my favorite things about clothes, and all my favorite items/outfits in my wardrobe. They made it incredibly easy to pare down my closet and they’ve streamlined how I shop — if I can’t describe it with any of my Five Words, away it goes.
– Related to this, Part 1 and Part 2 were really illuminating. I learned things about myself I never realized, and thought a lot about how I display (or don’t display, or should display!) those things with my clothes.
The least helpful parts for me:
– Part 4 and Part 9 were pretty much impossible for me. I don’t know if I’m just not a “visual learner” or what, but I couldn’t make sense of them and they felt like homework (in a bad way). I posted on the Week 4 page about what I did instead. Week 9 I just flat out ignored.
What I’d like to see more of:
– More about accessories, outerwear, and shoes.
– Curious about any differences that would come up in a fall/winter Wardrobe Architect.
– This will probably be more work than an offhand comment deserves, but… what about a men’s version? Some parts wouldn’t change much if at all (1, 2, 5, 6), but some would need a lot of revision. I ask on behalf of my fiance and my (male) best friend, who have noticed the change in my appearance and are sort of curious to try out a similar process for themselves!
THANK YOU AGAIN for this series — it’s been a blast!
Isabel
May 15, 2014 #
I would be really thrilled to be a case study! I have been putting Wardrobe Architect into practice and it has rekindled my joy in sewing and I learned lots about thinking about what I like – and not and what I need – or not! :)
Canal Couture
May 15, 2014 #
I loved the wardrobe architect series. It resonated with me on quite a deep level, especially the first few weeks and the last.
It inspired me to think about myself, and how I express myself through clothing ( and the gap between my actual choices and desired choices). I have been thinking about these topics before, but never on such a deep level and with such honesty. For me the philosophical exercise was invaluable.
What I would love the series to expand on is how you extend your style identity to different areas of your life and wardrobe. How do you keep your style consistent between a work wardrobe, casual wardrobe, party wear, loungewear etc.
How do you create one organic wardrobe that takes you through all different areas of your life? How do you deal with different wardrobe needs?
For now the wardrobe architect was the last push I needed to start sewing for myself. I realized that I settle a lot for “almost what I want, but not exactly” and “didn’t know I needed it, but now I want it” in my RTW buys. But deep down I have quite a strong sense of style. I hope to eliminate external stimuli that distract me when I shop, by committing to sewing for myself without compromising on style, fabric choices (color, texture, quality) and most importantly fit. I’m looking forward to the wardrobe that will develop along the road. Now I only need the courage and time to cull my wardrobe and start clean.
Thank you so much for this series, and please do explore this topic further.
Elisabeth
May 15, 2014 #
I too have really, really enjoyed this series! I am relatively new to sewing (a couple years off/on) and a huge reader of various blogs (uh, as in lots of reading. Not as in I am huge.) so having this project help to narrow and focus has been SO helpful. I think the most eye-opening/helpful thing was the silhouettes and looking at what makes me comfortable and what I like to wear (knits. Apparently I just love knits). I had a lot of clippings from catalogues (JPeterman especially. I love their drawings!) and it turns out they are like all the same 3 silhouettes! It’s helpful not only with my sewing but also with shopping for RTW. It has also been really fun bc my mom has been following as well and so it’s really sparked some awesome discussions about clothes and sewing.
I would love to see this expanded into a book/workbook. I am a sucker for having hard copies of things and it would be awesome to have it all laid out. Also, maybe some kind of sillhouette/pattern pairing. And I would love to be a case study!! I even live in Portland. Thanks again (for like the 20th time) for putting this together!
Beata
May 15, 2014 #
Another big fan of the series here! I followed along with the first few weeks, and found the worksheets really helpful. I’d love to see this in book form, with more worksheets and examples! I love lists and formulas :) I’d love to be a case study, depending on what exactly that means!
Becky
May 15, 2014 #
I’m really not exaggerating when I say that this series has been a highlight of my year in sewing so far! Trying to define and focus my style had been an ongoing project of mine for years, and going through this has made me feel like I finally have a handle on this. I think it will be helpful for future scenarios, too, like travel wardrobes and whenever my husband and I start a family and my wardrobe needs to adjust accordingly. I’m actually using this as my focus point for Me-Made-May this year, testing out the different colors and silhouettes to see how I feel about them when actually wearing them.
Some statements already made that I agree I’d like to see more of are: a) creating a cohesive wardrobe that works across different life roles, b) incorporating prints, and c) dealing with changing seasons. Especially the colder ones–silhouettes that incorporate layering are more of a stylistic challenge, IMO.
If you still need case studies, I’d be happy to help!
Mary R
May 15, 2014 #
When I first started the project, I was really excited about doing a capsule wardrobe. I’d just had a baby and wanted to have a small but coherent wardrobe for going back to work while I lost the baby weight. However, I started to struggle when I got to the exercise where we rated how we liked wearing certain styles. Realizing that I hadn’t worn some of the styles and didn’t know how I felt about them, I decided to start experimenting with those styles. I now know I love maxi skirts! My plan is to come back to the core wardrobe after I feel more solid on my likes/dislikes on other things like necklines, skirt fullness, pant leg shape and width, and probably a few other things.
To bring it back to your question, yes, I’d love more in depth on these topics. I feel like I’ve learned so much in my little experiment and had so much fun with it that I’d love to see where else these topics can go.
Carrie Ann
May 15, 2014 #
I was just thinking about this exact topic–The Wardrobe Architect needs to become a book! In fact, I think this series is already organized in a manner that would lead to a successful book. I would really like expanded sections for weeks 2, 8, and 9.
Heidi
May 15, 2014 #
Someone mentioned proportion earlier and I feel this would be a very natural extension.
I would love to see the Wardrobe Architect in book form!
The other thing it showed me was that although I have a good understanding of the colours I prefer to wear, ie brown rather than black, I have a larger proportion of black than I want as it is difficult to get the right fabrics or even RTW in the brown colour I prefer.
ashley
May 15, 2014 #
i found the series to be hands down the most insightful, constructive, and transformative thing i’ve ever read. i’ve always been a terrible dresser with no sense of style or cohesion. sewing has definitely helped me become more conscious of colors, shapes, form and function, but it’s still very overwhelming when you weren’t born with or educated to have the eye for fashion. this series was SO informative for people like me, who want a change but have no clue where to start.
i loved the step by step nature, and how one step built upon the next. this broke down building a wardrobe into manageable and logical pieces instead of being flooded with different inputs all at once, which is how i have always felt–a closet full of clothes with nothing to wear. a minimalist myself, i especially appreciated the portion on capsule wardrobes. i found each step to be so thoughtful, and they forced me to think about silhouettes and palates in ways i never was able to prior. i would love to see that expanded upon even further.
while i haven’t had time to fully complete or process all the information, there has been major weeding (and reweeding) of my closet, many new and more suitable garments sewn, and it has totally changed my outlook not only on shopping, but also on making things for myself. with the guidance of this series, i feel focused, measured, and totally in control of my purchases. after going through the steps of creating a capsule wardrobe for spring/summer, purchasing the correct fabrics and patterns is uncomplicated, and it’s a no brainer to resist the new popular pattern or fabric if it just doesn’t fit in my current lexicon (i found i was approaching sewing with the same chaos as i once approached shopping). it’s honestly liberating. a few weeks into the series, i grabbed a few things from my new closet and couldn’t believe that i’d effortlessly become a well dressed person. and then it happened again. and again. yes, more please. and sure, i would be a case study! still working actively on executing these steps.
Katie W
May 15, 2014 #
I loved the Wardrobe Architect series. I discovered very quickly that I have a signature style (in fact, the managers at work dressed as each other for April Fool’s Day, and everyone laughed at how easy it was to dress as me) — it’s funny that I hadn’t identified it before. Writing down five words that describe my style really helped a lot, as did identifying what proportions I prefer. It’s been most useful to me in terms of NOT purchasing things than anything else. I was, though, able to identify a few key items that I need to fill out my summer wardrobe, and went out and bought them (I am someone who is slow to purchase things, so that’s a big deal).
Emma Jayne
May 15, 2014 #
I found it really insightful… so much so that I didn’t share my findings on my blog as if felt too personal and I didn’t want to expose too much of that online (not in the raw form anyway, showing the results by how my sewing and wearing has changed feels good though). What about turning it into an online course? Really accessible and people can take their time going through the process. I’m happy to be a case study.
Jennifer
May 16, 2014 #
What I found particularly helpful were
– The worksheet on different style elements (necklines, skirt lengths, etc.) and rating each. Seeing my gut-level responses in numerical form was revelatory, because I realised that although there are certain styles I like objectively, when I see them on others, asking how I feel when wearing them reveals that in fact I never choose them above something else. So I was able to see clearly which styles I should focus on, and which I should simply stop trying to wear/make/buy.
– The silhouettes exercise was similarly revelatory. Once again, when buying or making individual pieces of clothing there is a lot that I like or grab for, but when imagining my favourite silhouettes a lot of those pieces don’t fit well, which is why I don’t wear them.
Some things I’d love to see discussed further (though I’m not totally sure how you would approach the topic) are the nitty-gritty of troubleshooting style elements, finding compromises between what we want and what is comfortable or appropriate to wear. Here are some examples of what I mean:
– I love smart vintage workwear styles, but pinstripe pencil skirts and heels are just too formal for my job – I would look ridiculous and attention-seeking. So I have sought compromises in things like cotton twill skirts worn with flats, which achieve some of the things I love but look appropriate. I’m interested in ideas like this – what about making vintage dresses out of chambray and denim to look modern and casual?
– Sleeves are a bugaboo for me, particularly with sewing when I have full choice. I like slim styles visually, but in a place with no A/C and with wide temperature fluctuations requiring layers that come on and off, I’ve discovered that tight sleeves are useful for layering but asking for sweat stains when you pull the sweater off… So what’s the ideal compromise sleeve depth? I’ve made a lot of tees but never yet gotten it right. Don’t want baggy, don’t want super-tight, but having a hard time identifying the ideal medium. I guess this is another kind of compromise situation regarding the practical wearability.
– Similarly with skirt waistlines, yet another example of what I mean. I like high waisted, slim skirts, but find it so hard to get the right waistband fit where it stays at my waist at ‘thin’ times of day and yet is comfortable after a meal. What strategies are there for fitting this type of issue? I know this is a fitting question, but I feel like it pertains to style. E.g. ‘go for a wide waistband with a shirred inset in the back’ or something, or ‘try a yoked style that sits at the waist but doesn’t have a waistband’. This is a question once again, of compromise…how to achieve a balance between look and comfort.
Sara
May 16, 2014 #
I loved your series on wardrobe architecting :-) But for me one thing was missing. The part where I went through clothes I’ve worn over the years and thought about why I loved some and wore them all the time and why some stayed in the closet even if I did love them.
And I skiped the last bits about accessories and make-up because I rarely use them.
Niamh
May 16, 2014 #
Although I haven’t completed all steps of the Wardrobe Architect, I have thought through them and picked up on what I felt the most basic, important steps were. It’s one of the most useful exercises I have ever encountered for working out how and why I dress, my aesthetic needs versus my practical needs, and what specific things I want to sew to fill gaps in my wardrobe. I’m not sure I have the time or dedication to be a case study, but I would love to see this project expanded and will support the hell out of it however it develops in future!
Isis
May 16, 2014 #
I found it really handy having someone else ask questions that helped me through the process. I was already sorting through similar ideas in my mind, but you brought clarity by breaking it up into bite size pieces and presenting it in a logical way.
I’m very intrigued to see what the next step is! A tool kit to help people find their own style would be amazing.
Jacqui
May 16, 2014 #
I LOVED this series, and obsessively checked the blog every Thursday to see what was new. I’m still playing catch-up on the weekly projects and probably won’t have a capsule wardrobe together until late Summer, but I would love to be a case study. I’m relatively new to sewing, but have been working to overhaul my closet and focus on more ethical, handmade options over the course of several years. My mission is to supplement a handmade wardrobe with ethical versions of the things I’m not skilled enough to make (jeans, accessories, shoes, etc.).
Please keep this kind of content coming – it’s wonderful!
Katie R
May 16, 2014 #
I’m not sure how this fits into the wardrobe architect, but I would like to see more pattern hacks or education on how to hack a pattern. If you have a pattern that you’ve already fitted and it fits your capsule, then it would be great to take that pattern and add details.
I’m thinking about the recent post of how the Moneta can be hacked into a cropped sweater. Or how the blog post from a while back about the sheath dress in the sewing handbook can be hacked into a skirt.
Other ideas… the sorbetto–how to modify that to a wrap shirt — or add sleaves. Another is the clover pants–how to move the zipper to the front and add welt pockets to make them more into slim fit trousers. I’ve seen blog posts where people have done this, but it requires a lot of trolling through the internet.
I’d love to see more on how to build on the capsules so it’s easy to move through the seasons. I live in an area where spring and fall are extremely variable from day to day, and even though it’s late spring now and I was wearing shorts last week, it’s very chilly again and I need my long sleeve cardigan and knee boots!
Taylor G
May 16, 2014 #
I echo the comment about capsule wardrobes that move through the seasons. I live in Minnesota, and throughout the year we have periods where the temperature is regularly -10 F and periods where the temperature is regularly 80 F, with everything in between. When we went through the exercise of creating silhouettes, I did 3 for winter, 3 for spring/fall, and 3 for summer. I’ve been trying to consider how I can use a short sleeved shirt with just a necklace or light scarf in the summer and put the same shirt under a jacket or cardigan in the winter, but I’d be interested in more discussion around things like that.
Taylor G
May 16, 2014 #
This has been an amazing series. I came into the series thinking it would help me figure out how to use some gift cards and Christmas gift money to best select pieces to fill in the gaps in my wardrobe (I am just starting to sew and want to get some practice on a few home decor projects before boldly attempting to sew something I’d be willing to wear). However, through this process I actually found that I have more than what I need to dress in a way that makes me feel good. I love that before we started thinking about specific clothing items we began by thinking about who we are. By rooting the process in careful reflection of my personality, preferences, and lifestyle and then branching out to identify the silhouettes and colors that fit with that reflection, I have started dressing in ways that are more satisfying to me using only pieces I already had. It has become easier to get rid of items in my closet that don’t fit with that vision. It also makes shopping easier; I have a specific idea of fabrics or items that would complement my wardrobe, so I can look for those and more easily pass up something that doesn’t meet my needs.
Thank you so much for making the time to put this together. I’m interested in any other content along these lines. Since I started going through this series, I feel like the way I dress is a better reflection of myself, and I’m very grateful!
P.S. I realized that almost all my shirts and dresses are knits, in part because I’ve come to terms with the fact that I rarely make time to iron, so once I’m brave enough to start sewing clothing I look forward to getting The Colette Guide to Sewing Knits and making a 3/4 length sleeve Moneta (3/4 length sleeves got a 10 on my WA worksheet)!
Susan
May 16, 2014 #
I think the series would expand really well into a book. I particularly liked the parts about the silhouettes and the colours you actually wear.
As someone mentioned above, I also really liked that it didn’t contain a bunch of “shoulds” (e.g. You have a long back, there fore you should avoid this/pick these”) I like that it was more about what you personally like, rather than the “fashion rules.” LOL
Danica
May 16, 2014 #
I also appreciated the color and silhouette portions of the series. I don’t have the luxury (money) to buy/sew garments that don’t suit me, so it really made me think of what I need to give up trying to “make work” into my wardrobe.
Katrina Blanchalle
May 16, 2014 #
It’s impossible to give a brief answer to what an impact the Wardrobe Architect project has had on my closet and my sewing! I have been so surprised at this experience.
I was able to narrow down my personal style to very specific shapes and silhouettes through the use of the worksheets and many pleasant hours on Pinterest. I learned that comfort is my highest priority, something that should have been obvious, but which explained dozens of unworn items in my closet. The most surprising self-discovery was that I am very modest, and no amount of creativity or elegance will make me wear a garment that leaves me feeling exposed.
I did a lifestyle vs. wardrobe analysis and to say that there was a mismatch is an understatement. I have a closet full of fancy dresses and suits, but I mostly wear jeans and T shirts.
I actually enjoyed my month of closet cleanings and drawer sortings. At the end of the big purge I was left with about a third of the stuff and a huge sense of relief. Everything fits me! It all goes together! I am now working on the vast piles of patterns and fabrics that do not fit with my style.
Now I have a little “blueprint” that I wrote up, a set of guidelines that will help keep my new makes or purchases within the “architecture” of my existing wardrobe. Of course I will still break the rules occasionally, but I love this overall more thoughtful approach.
I don’t think anything was missing from the process, but I would love for it to be ongoing. A book would be great but I tend to buy the book, read it, and put it away. I would love to see this as a regular (maybe seasonal?) feature in the blog, maybe a little exercise to keep us on track.
Thank you SO MUCH for this amazing experience!
Rachel
May 16, 2014 #
I’d love to see a Wardrobe Architect book. I read the posts but didn’t participate and given the amount of information I think it would be great in book form. Also, it’s the kind of thing one should do more than once, so a book would be a worthwhile investment.
Amy
May 16, 2014 #
I think this would be lovely as a book. And also inspirational if it included stories from women of varying ages and lifestyles on how they worked through their wardrobes. Another thought… a short exercise on budgeting might be useful, too. A fashion magazine (can’t remember which) used to do this monthly–asking women of varying incomes to describe how they planned out their clothing budgets and I found it very insightful. Lately I have been thinking harder about the ratios of my spending between sewing tools, fabrics, patterns, and how much of that is actually going into wearable clothing!
Amelia
May 16, 2014 #
Thank you for this series. I have been looking for something just like this for a long time and could hardly believe it when I stumbled across your thoughtful step-by-step instructions. I am not a sewer but that didn’t matter at all, it was still profoundly useful. I would love to hear you discuss more about age and clothing, more on details like accessories, and more examples of capsule wardrobes from different style types. Putting it all together is challenging for me, like juggling many balls. I work between two countries so literally must have a capsule wardrobe that will fit in a suitcase. It is a challenge but also liberating. (I would love to be a case study if you need a shy late-blooming artistic academic in the mix). Wonderful, wonderful tools. Thank you so much for this marvelous resource.
gabriel ratchet
May 16, 2014 #
yes, a book/workbook.
what i liked was the focus on helping you think about what you liked, what you wanted and needed and felt comfortable in…. not a canned list of must haves. also, the encouragement to explore, and at the same time pare out what’s clearly not working. i’d like to see even more examples – i’m visual…. and i’d like those examples to be really real, and really diverse – ages, seasons, activities, body types and sizes, skin and hair colors, geographies and abilities and life stages….. to be about breaking molds, rather than conforming to them, because you know who you are and what’s important to YOU.
amy
May 16, 2014 #
Ok so… I’ve done nothing but gush about the Wardrobe Architect series ever since you started it so forgive me if I’m repeating myself. This series was fantastic. I plan on revisiting it as I plan out my sewing every season. I already try to be very diligent when it comes to editing my closet, but focusing my style is something I could definitely use work on. I tend to bounce all over the place when it comes to what I like, and my style isn’t as specific as a lot of other women. So wardrobe architect helped me figure out exactly what “me” means.
I didn’t feel like there was a whole lot missing honestly! You even covered accessories! Maybe somehow when it comes to the editing and making sewing plans part you could incorporate something for those of us who have piles and/or bins of old things we are planning on altering or vintage things we are planning on refashioning? I suggest this of course because I am guilty as charged for buying things at thrift/vintage stores I plan on refashioning and then they just end up at the bottom of the infamous bin. I usually try to incorporate two or three of these projects into each seasons sewing plans but mostly I just feel buried. Also maybe some tips for cleaning out your fabric stash??
Ok.. I have to stop now because I’m revealing too much of the hoarder in me…
Stephanie
May 17, 2014 #
This series was transformative for me. I’ve documented it all on my blog (still working on the last week right now). I’m in the military (so half my closet is already taken up by uniforms), and I move a lot so I need a wardrobe that is simple, but can still work in different climates. On top of that, I had my second child in December, and have been working on getting back in shape and becoming the most healthy/fit version of myself to date.
Going through all of the worksheets and exercises I’ve been able to identify the things that I clutter my wardrobe (and yarn/fabric stashes) with, and make smarter decisions when it comes to shopping for supplies as well as patterns. I’m actually working on a sweater right now that is a direct result of going through this process.
I really liked the fact that even if you’re not a maker, you can participate in all these exercises. It’s definitely helped me to realize that when I make clothing purchases I want high quality basics that will last, instead of low quality ones that I’ll toss after a couple years. I also frequently refer back to the Pinterest boards I created to keep me focused and find inspiration.
As many have mentioned already, WA would make a great book. I see it as a workbook, perhaps one that could be divided up seasonally or at least one section for fall/winter and one for spring/summer with tips and suggestions on how to identify pieces that can move between seasons. It would also be great to have pages to place swatches and fiber samples to refer back to as you build your wardrobe. I think it would also be great to include the instructions on how to make a personalized croquis from your first book to aid in identifying silhouettes that work on your body.
You’ve done an excellent job on this, and I look forward to you expanding the project in the future. I love the community that has been created, its focus on positivity and inclusiveness has been great. It’s been as much fun watching others work through each week as it has been to go through my own experience. I’d also be happy to volunteer as a case study. Thank you so much for putting this together!
Megan
May 17, 2014 #
Like others have mentioned, I haven’t yet started the series, but I plan to for summer. The worksheets are printed out and waiting…. and I would love to be kept in the loop!
sandy
May 17, 2014 #
I’ve loved this series – I’ve been slowly, slowly de-cluttering my wardrobe for a couple of years (as well as changing my wardrobe to reflect a change in career & life circumstances).
I’d love to be a case study! When I look at my wardrobe now there is such a clear aesthetic – a LOT of blues and blue & white stripes, gold… everything goes together and each morning I love getting dressed. It’s so so good! I also have a box of old (good) clothes waiting to be sold, and I’m really looking forward to the spare change!
Lexi
May 17, 2014 #
Sarai, this series has been amazing. I have learned so much about myself and now have a solid plan to go forward with in terms of sewing projects and dressing myself in general. I don’t care if it sounds shallow; thinking through my personal style in this systematic way has helped me connect to myself during a period of feeling a bit lost. It’s made me realise that I have a lot to say about myself – and the world, and that (mostly) I’m unable to do that by shopping stores and RTW. I have distinct tastes and am passionate about them, and I haven’t been servicing this important aspect of my life. I’m particularly busy at this point in my life (trying to finish a PhD and to do well at my job without permanently collapsing into a cat-fur lined hermit hole), so I tell myself I don’t have time to sew, or even time to spend on dressing well at all. But it’s a false (time) economy, because investing in myself and self-expression is what sustains me and allows me to do everything with passion and enthusiasm. Absolutely no exaggeration here: the wardrobe architect series is what helped me to see all this.
I think it would make a fine book and/or course a and I’d be more than happy to be a case study. Thank you so much.xxx
SizeMode
May 17, 2014 #
There are a number of elements to the Wardrobe Architect that I truly enjoyed, and found that it engaged me in a completely new thought process when thinking of how I wear clothes.
First off, the initial exercises that focused on our personal history and what influences defined our style were quite valuable for me. The exercise helped me recognize that what we wear can be symbolic in many ways and gave me a new avenue for expression. Some days I like to wear clothes that reflect my mood, other days my garment choices are a representation of a pivotal moment in my life while other days I wear colors that honor a person or a place. It became another method of incorporating mindfulness into my day.
I remember doing this exercise while the stories about the tragedies in Bangladesh were still fresh in my mind. It got me to thinking that it would be pretty amazing to challenge myself to one year of making my own clothing…..all from recycled/upcycled/thrifted materials. This would be a challenge for me on many fronts, mostly because Im at the mercy of what is available. But more importantly Im looking forward to participating in an activity that is self supportive (for the most part) and keeps me mindful of how where our clothing comes from.
The second high point for me were the exercises on selecting shapes. There was something really satisfying about using my “gut feeling” to assign a number to a particular style or shape. It completely removed my easily influenced self to be swayed to “like” a shape or style because it is trending.
Lastly, I loved sharing the images we collected. It would be so great to have some sort of forum or archive that might house links to all participants collections. I loved following the links people shared in the comments section to their blogs or pinterest and wished there was an easier way to return to the links without having to scroll through the comments. Lazy…I know.
Thank you again for creating this for me. It was mind opening. PS. I would love to be a guinea pig for you.
Mary
May 17, 2014 #
I found this such an inspiring and helpful series. The biggest gaps for me lay in moving from general principles/inspiration to creating actual workable silhouettes, and then again moving from silhouettes to the specific pieces that I needed. I found it difficult to think creatively in terms of building a variety of different silhouettes, and then once I had silhouettes in mind, I had a difficult time figuring out how to translate that into a capsule wardrobe.
Zoe May
May 18, 2014 #
Ooh I’d LOVE to be a case study!
I’ve already found the series so helpful, especially when making fabric purchases. I went to the fabric store last week to buy a specific piece of trim, and I left with only that piece of trim! I am so much more confident about the way I dress, my future sewing projects and purchases, and generally cleaning out my wardrobe. It was also very interesting to spend some time thinking about my past and how it has influenced the way I feel and dress now.
It would make an amazing book – one that I think could make a huge difference in the way people feel about themselves. And not at all in a shallow way, as all of the personal benefits that come from this process are also environmental, ethical and social benefits!
Can’t wait to hear what you do with this!
Sarah O
May 18, 2014 #
I’ve been following and blogging about my experiences with The Wardrobe Architect sereies since it started and would be happy to help in any way.
Lauren
May 18, 2014 #
I’d be SO down for being an example of the Wardrobe Architect. The project really helped me hone in on my preferred style and has made getting dressed and choosing what I buy and make so much easier.
Sara
May 19, 2014 #
Clothes are important. Very important, for so many practical and sociological reasons. Important for self esteem, for identity; they can be enabling or disabling. Not having a wardrobe with clothes you can ‘wear’ can be so very debilitating. And it can be hard to be honest to yourself about this.
The Wardrobe Architect series has been like a breath of fresh air – as I quietly worked on this myself I could be honest with myself, and I looked back at the influences over the years which have been stumbling blocks to me giving the appropriate amount of care and regard to my wardrobe.
This was a major breakthrough – before I even began to look at styles, colours, silhouettes, fabric type and accessories/make up/hair and beauty.
I love to sew, and I am always sewing, but I really only dream of sewing a fabulous, useable, comfortable, flattering wardrobe. In the last couple of months I have started – not in great leaps. I go back to the earlier posts, and re-read and re-think, and as I look over the photos and images I have been collecting I have seen at pattern of what I really like, and now I am ready.
I have always had the skills, but now I have given myself permission to really think about designing a wardrobe which will be enabling.
As I worked through the series, there were often times when I thought I would skip a section because it ‘wasn’t really relevant’, or ‘I don’t need to know that’, but as I go back over and over I can see it is all so very relevant, all interlinked and after all, fashion is so much more than clothes, and when we embrace it, it gives us so many more opportunities to be a part of community in so many ways.
I have loved this series, and am sure any book/tool kit etc will be a huge success. Your presentation has been so do-able, entertaining and constructive. Thank you.
Lee
May 19, 2014 #
I’ve gotten a lot out of the Wardrobe Architect series. Thank you! Don’t know if anyone’s mentioned this already, it reminds me of Apartment Therapy: The Eight-Step Home Cure (the book, not the blog) by Maxwell Gillingham-Ryan, another thoughtful guided process of exercises with lots of inspiration and case studies. I believe they continue run a home cure on the blog every year as well.
Lee
May 19, 2014 #
Also wanted to say I found the exercises on shapes the most helpful and transformative. Would love to have even more examples, images, info, etc. on that subject.
Claire
May 20, 2014 #
This series has been like therapy for my creative process as well as my style (since the two are so intertwined), for how I get dressed in the morning, for the projects I plan. I feel like I know myself better, like I was able to take a step back and make sense of my often overwhelming creative energy. Thank you for this.
I really liked the worksheets at the beginning- you could expand on these and make more of them, like a journal. The later posts don’t have worksheets, so I kept a journal by answering the thought-provoking questions you ask throughout each post. It was good to have my answers all in one place to look back on. I spent a lot of time on the Into-Mind blog reading her posts about minimalist wardrobes that you refer to. I also added my thoughts on her posts into my wardrobe architect journal. Having a hard copy helped me organize everything.
I would be honored to be a case study. You can contact me through my website, hoopesparkstudios.com
Claire
Crystine
May 20, 2014 #
For me, the Wardrobe Architect has been a useful and beautiful guideline for thinking about and developing my personal style. It has also prompted me to think about what I want out of style as something that I invest time, energy, thought, and money into. One thing I liked best about following the Wardrobe Architect is that it helped me focus on pinpointing the specific elements of my style and why I’m attached to those elements. For example, I like clean lines, subtle colors, and tend more towards classic, iconic styles rather than trends or anything too loud. The activities helped me realize that my tastes have a practical and aesthetic side. I like clean lines for their look, but also because simple clothes seem more practical to me. I don’t like having lots of volume in the way or being uncomfortable. But, I also don’t want to be frumpy or give up style for functionality. In my own sewing, I find myself drawn to relatively simple garments that have fewer steps or less complicated construction. I like this because I can focus more on creating one really beautiful piece. The Wardrobe Architect helped me realize that I care more about letting beautiful, high quality fabrics shine in a simple shape than complicated garment constructions.
One thing I’d like to see more focus on in the series is attention to lifestyle and style. For me, clothes are both functional and aesthetic. I want beautiful lines, fabric, and accessories, but I also want to be able to move and work. I’d like to hear more about how others plan their style and lifestyle. I’d like to see how others accommodate their style to fit their lifestyle or activities that they wear their clothes for daily. For example, I commute by bike so even though I think one of my best silhouettes is a pencil skirt, I rarely wear this shape. I liked how the series focused on designing a wardrobe, but I’d also like to see the process of building: which clothes to make or buy, where to source supplies, and reflections on or comparisons between the plan versus the actual outcome.
I would be happy to be a case study!
Grasshopper
May 21, 2014 #
I really liked the WA series and was following along diligently for awhile; however, once we reached the silhouettes and reducing the color palette parts, I really struggled. I found this to be indicative of where I struggle with my wardrobe in general. I have a seasonal color analysis set up for next week and will probably follow with a personal image analysis to help me focus both my color and silhouette needs. Once I have that , I will go back through the exercises to develop a sewing plan.
Michele Ferguson
May 22, 2014 #
Hi Sarai,
This is my first time commenting on your blog and just want to say I love your patterns, your book and your blog, to which I am a newbie!! Also looking forward to your Sewing with Knits book–no matter how long I’ve sewn, I am always learning something new.
That said, cannot thank you enough for your Wardrobe Architect series. I have just found it, so have been happily reading and drinking in all the posts. I have a huge library of books relating to fashion and how to create a wardrobe, and even work with an inspiring image consultant, but have never come across this type of information as it relates to sewists. I have been in a total slump with my sewing lately because I am just completely overwhelmed by all the images, fabric, patterns and my own (uninformed) purchases of clothing (that I am going to repurpose and make wearable–ha!) and fabric.
Haven’t had a chance to do the exercises yet, but plan to. If a book that expands somewhat on the information in this blog series is even a glimmer for you, I will be first in line to buy it! I have read over and over that in order to dress yourself, you first have to know who you are. I think that is what I am struggling so hard with right now, even at my, ahem, advanced age. Hopefully, doing your exercises will help me in this area!
Sarai
May 22, 2014 #
Thanks Michele.. and for jumping in and commenting!
Michele Ferguson
May 22, 2014 #
Just wanted to add that I have read all the comments already posted in answer to this post. It is heartening to realize I am not alone in my struggle to plan and make clothes I really want to wear. Also nice to read that most would like to see a book/workbook of this information, as opposed to an online class (sorry to those of you who would prefer the info online.) I have had some of my books since the early 80’s and always refer back to them–they are like old friends. Thank you again, for this totally inspiring blog series and all the time and thought you put into it.
Elena
May 22, 2014 #
I loved the Wardrobe Architect series and found it really challenging. I worked my way through it slowly, re-did sections, and truthfully I found it hard because I have never really examined my wardrobe before, or thought about WHY I like to wear certain clothes and not other clothes. Despite having read numerous books on “developing/refining a personal style”—none of them were as useful because they did not take into account the stories and emotions that accompany what we wear.
I often have trouble thinking of how garments I sew (or even ones that I buy) would fit into my existing wardrobe, so the analysis and self-reflection was useful. I’m using it to guide my shopping decisions too—I am a terrible/indecisive shopper and it has been helpful to get me thinking.
I would definitely say discussion of texture was sort of missing, and it’s an element I like to use to mix up my outfits. I did get quite lost when it came to colours—it’s so overwhelming that there are so many; it would be helpful to have a library of them the way you provided an inventory of garment shapes.
Oh, and I would love to be a case study :)
Juliana
May 22, 2014 #
Hi there, Sarai
I began Wardrobe Architect like 5 or six weeks after you started, and life got so messy I stopped at “round” 4.
I am however taking it from where I left it, this week!
I must say: just the idea and the first exercises added a lot for my way of planning my looks and shopping, for fabric and for RTW… Also, it made me define much more my style, in terms of really express who I am and what I believe in. We all do this, with more or less conscience of it, what I mean is I really empowered myself with this concept, and somewhat it has helped make me stronger and more solid on my principles, as a person, including all aspects of my life – my background, my actions in the world, the things I read and places I’ve been, things I eat. I don’t know if you are going to understand what I mean. Somewhat this process is making me look inside and make myself stronger. Even when I am inconstant and everchanging.
Well, should this turn into a book I will most certainly acquire one, and should you need a case study and think of me, I most certainly will love to participate!
oh I love you ColetteS so very much <3
thanks,
Ju
Julie
May 29, 2014 #
I read the wardrobe architect series and loved the concept although I wasn’t able to try it out in step with the posts. I have had real trouble maintaining a sensible wardrobe over the past few years due to huge changes in my shape and life (I have three children under seven).
I sew and knit and try to make things that I like and will wear but I have a somewhat schizophrenic life/wardrobe – I’m an Army wife and a stay at home mother so my wardrobe veers between ballgowns at one end and scruffs at the other.
I’m in the UK but I’d love to be a guinea pig/cars study.
Sara A.
May 31, 2014 #
I just started garment sewing and have found myself a bit swamped. I’m a US 22/24 and came to this out of a sense of desperation as I’m beginning to get sized out of retail. I already quilt and thought, “why should I restrict myself to blankets?” After having no options for years, suddenly if I can think it, it can exist! The prospect is daunting.
This process has helped me think about the shapes, colors, and patterns I want to wear and helped me to plan out what I want to sew, what I want to knit, and what I want to continue buying. I’m currently knitting a sweater and a cardigan in two different near neutrals and I know what my next two sweaters are going to be. I have fabric, notions, and patterns picked out for two tops in statement colors and goodness knows I’m going to be planning more me-makes for Fall because I found this rather late. If you still need a case study, I’d be happy to oblige.
Judy
May 31, 2014 #
I’m not one to set up plans for clothing. I know what I like and am rather a Talbots type of boring girl when I shop. However, this is such an exciting idea. Have you thought about doing a SurveyMonkey survey to get feedback on needs and ideas? I love this idea. I already am quite the OCD purchaser and rarely sew for myself now that I have grandchildren, but it might be helpful for you to conduct some informal research to gain more information upon which to scaffold your next move. My non-profit uses research all the time for academics in terms of scholarly research, so I’m wondering why some simple approach to research might not give voice to your huge following and also assist you in serving them with this amazing approach. Wishing you all the very best!
jessica
June 16, 2014 #
I really like the idea of a book/workbook. blogs and online content are always nice, but i just LOVE actual books for sewing and creativity. it’s so nice to get away from the computer sometimes. i’ve read and reread and reread the Colette Sewing Handbook and its still my favorite sewing inspiration book to peruse while drinking coffee and daydreaming on a saturday morning.
Jo
June 19, 2014 #
I started my blog months ago because I wanted to rethink my wardrobe and style and to make new clothes. I found this series few weeks ago and it is the best!! I was stuck until I found this and now I am reading the posts and doing the tasks and I feel like a winner :D I am so excited to define my style and create new clothes and outfits. Thank you so much! Please continue developing Wardrobe Architect! I would like to see more about colors, how to use and combine them and also something about accessories, like jewellery and shoes.