L to R Greek Madras, Campus Madras, Quad Madras
Nothing says summer like madras…cool, refreshing in fiber (cotton) and color. Yes, we know you could make a patchwork yourself! But truly wouldn’t you rather have it all done for you and all you have to do is construct the garment? We found our newest selections from a well-known supplier and were pleased with the quality of the stitching.
Stitching on reverse of patchwork madras
Serged and topstitched at the seams, this lightweight, airy cotton is perfect for shirts, blouses, skirts, jackets, shifts, loose shorts or crops. You can have fun with accessories too.
Ruffles hit the spotlight in spring 2008 and they are back bigger than ever for spring 2009. Feminine and romantic, this look has made its way into dresses, shirt fronts and even gusseted into coats. Even just touches of ruffle, skirting across a hem or sleeve edge, or a tiny delicate waterfall on a shirt front can add softening to silhouettes. An off-center thin line of small ruffling down a shirt or skirt can add length to your look or adding a long ruffled scarf will do for a nod to this hot fashion look.
Surf’s up for knits this summer. We have been seeing them in dresses for a while, but knits are really hanging 10 for tops in the summer of ‘08. They are out there as the banded jewel necklines in drapey silhouettes, preppy color filled polos, deep scoops, boatnecks, and have been seen in more stripes than a beach umbrella. To put it in surfer terms, Chillax. Whichever works for you, go for it, keep it real and rip your sewing to new heights! Just remember to maintain a low-key vibe when you’re in the lineup. 
Green is not just a trend, but a way of life that is changing everything we do. Change can be good when alternatives to former products are attractive and easily accessible.
Paisleys never quite go away but some years they emerge as THE motif of the season. This is one of those years! Use the paisley print reservedly for the best fashion impact.
Soft and flowing, georgette is a semi-sheer fabric that is reigning supreme in the marketplace right now. Since ruffles are here to stay this spring, you’ll see lots of soft, drapeable prints that fall gently into ribbons (flounces) down the front of dresses and blouses or peak out from beneath straight or a-line skirt to make a subtle but flirtatious statement. For semi-sheer prints, see Effervescence, and look for Spright next week.