Winter’s brightest

Brazilian-born sewing blogger, Rachel Pinheiro discusses how to add bright colours to your winter wardrobe

As temperatures start to drop, it’s easy to find yourself changing the hues of your wardrobe. Reaching for a sea of black and greys can be a safe choice but if you really want to inject some energy back into your winter wardrobe why not make something using bold bursts of colour.

Strong and bright colours have a powerful effect on our emotions.

You will definitely feel upbeat with this colour combination of pinks and oranges. The fabric that I used came ready quilted adding an extra layer of warmth and texture. Quilted clothes are having a moment in fashion, which I love.

Since the weather is cold and dark already, I chose to make the perfect snug staple – a loose sweater dress. There are infinite ways to wear bright dresses during the winter. This sporty design makes it easy to dress it down but still stand out. I often style these sorts of dresses with non-sport trainers, boots and even brogues. The sewing pattern I used is the Lola Dress by Victory Patterns. It’s super easy to make, as there are no fastenings – you just slip it-on. The design features an angled waistline, and although the dress has a loose-fit, it doesn’t feel baggy as it is shaped with princess seams. You won’t even need a handbag because the pockets are so generous!

The only alteration from the original pattern that I had to make was omitting the ‘V’ detail in the front and avoiding the topstitching on the pockets.

Tips to consider when styling winter brights

 Choose lighter hues for warmer winters and contrasting fabrics for colder areas.

 Consider smart layering. If you’re not a fan of bright prints, pick a monotone colour and layer with a bright colour garment. I’m obsessing about wearing a beige blazer suit with a neon layer of a turtleneck underneath. The beauty of the colourful base layer is that it can be surreptitiously slipped under anything. Whatever makes you happy!

 An autumn and winter wardrobe doesn’t have to be all doom and gloom but if you prefer more classic dressing, why not sew a bright accessory like a beret. Line the pockets with your favourite colour so only you know what lies beneath!

Top tips for sewing:

I recommend using a walking foot when working with ready-quilted fabric. I was able to work with a standard 2.5mm stretch stitch length. However, you may wish to use a longer stitch length. I would recommend testing your machine options.

Editor’s notes

The pink and orange chevron print quilted sweatshirt fabric that Rachel used was from Hamburger Liebe’s Park Lane capsule collection (HAMPL994024-0801). The other colour available in this fabric is mustard and blue (HAMPL994024-0802). To view the full range from the Park Lane collection – click here hantex.page.link/pl

The Lola dress pattern is from Victory Patterns. It’s a spin-off of the classic crewneck sweater and ideal for an overlocker. It comes in sizes 2-16 (US). To learn more about this sewing pattern – click here hantex.page.link/vpl