Teresa, of CanaryKnits and I announced the beginning of Handmade Fashion Challenge this morning. In order to help the participants to decide what to make from now until October 31, we put together this style guide.

- Style Guide -
 

1) Go look at your closet and take out everything you wore last week.

2) If your outfits from last week could talk, what would be the 3 words that describe your work, position, authority, personality and style?

3) From the last week's wardrobe, which one was your favorite outfit, and why? Which was your least favorite?

4) Plan your capsule wardrobe. Capsule wardrobe should be something that would fit into your luggage if you were to live out of a suitcase for a month but still look fashionable and put together. There are several approaches based on your answers from the last 3 questions.

a.  If your last week's outfits are basically shirts and tees in solid/muted colors over black pants a.k.a. "BORING" => Build your new look around basic items with cardigans or vests so you can layer and change the look. Take a look at the color wheel, and locate the color you frequently wear. Pick the color directly opposite from your "frequently worn" color. Make the new garment in that color.

b. If you found yourself saying something like, "I have nothing to wear!!!" more than once last week... => Make something really eyecatching: Dresses with bold prints, skirts with embroidery details or lace, flowy blouses.

c. If you realize you have 50+ tops and shirts but only 2 pairs of pants that work with your daily outfit or you have fancy dresses but very little comfortable outfits => Make something that would fill the "hole" in your closet.

d. If your favorite/least favorite outfits were based on fitting issues => Make something well-tailored to your shape. Take correct measurements of your body!

e. If your favorite/least favorite outfits were based on practicality such as "it's cold in the office but all I have is thin cardigans and skirts that bare my legs" => Make shawls or jackets to include in your daily wardrobe.

f. Develop a theme around the 3 words you have from Question 2. Do you need more serious outfits? Beachwear for vacation or weekends? Fun, flirty outfits for any upcoming holidays?

g. If you are still wondering what you should make => Make something challenging: Sew a pair of jeans perfectly tailored to your shape; knit elaborate beaded lace piece or cable sweater that will wow your friends; ,ake something from vintage patterns; mix up several patterns you have to create a new look.