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.

We were especially intrigued with drapey jerseys teamed with georgettes to form mixed layers of ruffles… and we have a perfect pair up!  The Acai silk georgette and Jussara cotton spandex knit duo.

Read more on ruffles and pattern suggestions in the salon.

More suggestions:

• Silk charmeuse: Solids, Dots
• Semi-sheers: Acai, Litza, Edelweiss, Joya de Ceren

Fabrics include: Beach Party, Creamsicle, Hot Coral, Vivo Stripe, Hyannisport, Yarmouthport, and Shangri-la.  See all of our current knits.

We’ve just brought in a wonderful woven bamboo fabric in two neutrals, Beige and Black.  In addition to having a wonderful dry, drapey hand, this fabric offers characteristics that are appealing to all of us.  It is naturally absorbent, making it breathable and comfortable for warm climates.  In addition, it is anti-bacterial and odor-resistant, a perfect combination for sensitive skin.  This is definitely an easy care-easy wear fabric for blouses, dresses, and unstructured separates.  Keep your eye out for more eco-friendly fabrics as they make their way to our warehouse!

Flowing skirts with solid tees, cuffs and collars to accent solids and textures, and blocked wearable art are some suggestions to follow.  Sometimes the print is all paisleys swirling around one another in a colorful melange such as Carousel or the paisley is the centerpiece motif in an otherwise floral print such as Merengue.

Then there’s the retro swirl as an interpretation of a paisley such as Pandora.  For a subtle interpretation of the trend, you can choose a tone on tone woven paisley such as Dowry.