Suit Yourself!

The Menswear trend is back and hotter than ever; from flannel, tweeds, and stripes, to solid tropical weight wools and even brocades. Let’s look at the styles and fabric choices from Sew Much Fabric! Image from Calvin Klein’s Fall 2017 RTW collection

Outerwear: Coats

As we head into the winter months, a coat is high priority!  A tweed coat with just a hint of color like Black with Ruby Flecks Wool Blend or Black with Sea Grey Flecks Wool Blend will brighten an otherwise dreary winter day. A coat that's slightly oversized offers plenty of room to wear a suit underneath. Pattern- Burda Style 11/2016 #128B 

A coat in faux leather like Black Embossed Faux Leather has just a little feminine touch in the print! Pattern: Burda Style 09/2016 #117

Sports Jacket

A sports jacket is a completer piece for the menswear trend.  It completes or adds polish to a shirt and pair of pants.  Corduroy (Sold Out) or wool flannel are the perfect fabrics for this look.  Pair with jeans, a scarf and cap for a chic weekend glam outfit!  Pattern- Burda 6746

Shirts

A white cotton shirt is also classic menswear but in silk (Sold Out) it softens the look and adds a more luxurious feel.  Pattern-Burda 7136

Suit

A power suit is quintessential menswear.  Tropical weight wool in black, navy and brown are great to wear all year around.  You'll need all three pieces-jacket, pants and skirt.  Break the suit up and wear the individual pieces with other items in your wardrobe.  Pattern: Vogue 9138

Tuxedos

A tuxedo is a great alternative look for evening and so comfortable!  Use this Black/White Double Faced Suiting and add a little sparkle with a sequin shell top.  Pattern- Burda Style 10/2015 #126 

A second option for a tuxedo look is brocade.  Sparkle is always a welcome addition!  Pattern Burda Style 09/2014 #107 

Head over to Sew Much Fabric to see all of these fabrics plus more  and sew up a few of these menswear inspired outfits. These looks will last for many years to come and still be on trend!

Fabric ideas posted by Beverly Gatterson, who teaches fashion design at the Art Institute of Houston.