Sewing Your Perfect Capsule Wardrobe 5 key pieces with full-size patterns that can be tailored to your style

Sew your own capsule wardrobe with five perfect pieces tailored to suit you

The capsule wardrobe, popularized by Donna Karan in the 1980s, is timeless, stylish and effortlessly chic. Composed of go-to pieces that can be dressed up or down, it is the perfect antidote to the overstuffed drawers and ill-fitting cheap outfits from the high street. 

In this practical but inspiring book, seamstress Arianna Cadwallader and designer Cathy McKinnon present sewing patterns and instructions for the five key pieces that will form the basis of your own capsule wardrobe:

• a great shift dress
• well-fitting pants
• a simple yet stylish skirt
• a light blouse
• a jersey vest

Their focus is on quality and fit – all the patterns can be adapted to fit and suit you perfectly, whether you prefer long, short or cap sleeves, high or low waistbands, and slim, straight or wide legged pants. You can then mix and match your garments to create a variety of looks and styles. Aimed at advanced beginners, the book guides you through how to measure yourself and all the techniques you will need. With a foreword by TV star Dawn O’Porter, this is the essential guide to creating your perfect wardrobe.

Arianna Cadwallader has a degree in Costume Interpretation and has previously worked on costumes for films including the Harry Potter series. She appeared on Channel 4’s This Old Thing and worked with Dawn O’Porter on her BOB clothing line. 

Cathy McKinnon is an art director and designer. She founded Cloth magazine and her clients include Oh Comely magazine and Simple Things magazine.