Keep Up With Current Styles and Jazz Up Your Wardrobe

Fresh Sewing Tips to Stay Stylish and Confident

We all want to look stylish in both the clothing we buy and the clothing we sew. No matter how skilled your stitches are, the wrong style can still make even the best-made garment feel frumpy. Sewing gives you the freedom to design pieces that are timeless, flattering, and uniquely yours—but it’s still important to keep an eye on what’s current so your wardrobe feels fresh.

Some fashion trends come and go so quickly you can hardly keep up, while others cycle back around years later. That’s why it pays to be selective. Certain styles have truly retired, and holding onto them will only weigh down your closet. The key is to know which looks have moved on—and what to sew instead.

What’s Out of Style (and What’s In Instead)

Animal Prints

Leopard and cheetah prints had their moment, but the craze has faded. Instead, consider timeless stripes, polka dots, or subtle florals, which can add personality without looking dated.

Tie-Dye

Full-on tie-dye is out, though muted watercolor prints or ombré effects can still work if you love a splash of color.

Cold Shoulder & Off-Shoulder Tops

These styles burned bright and faded fast. Today, puff sleeves, gathered shoulders, and elegant boat necklines are taking their place.

Overly Ripped Jeans

Jeans with giant gaping holes look messy now. Straight-leg jeans, wide-leg trousers, or jeans with light distressing offer a cleaner, more polished style.

Skinny Jeans

Spray-on skinnies have had their day. Swap them for slightly tapered cuts, boot-cut, or relaxed straight-leg patterns when sewing your own.

Bike Shorts

Once paired with oversized blazers, this trend never fully landed. Skip the bike shorts sewing patterns and try linen shorts or wide-leg culottes instead.

Shoes & Accessories

Micro Bags

Tiny purses that fit only a credit card are out. Instead, medium crossbody bags and structured totes are practical and stylish.

Booties

Round-toe and square-toe booties are on pause. The pointed toe is what’s trending now.

Extreme Platform Shoes

Towering 5–6" heels are impractical and passé. Block heels or wedge sandals give height with comfort.

Wedge Sneakers

Retired. Sleek white leather sneakers are the fresh replacement.

Simple Ways to Boost Your Wardrobe

Clearing out outdated styles is only the first step. Next comes elevating the basics you already own—or sewing new staples that can be styled in multiple ways. Small changes make a big impact.

The White Tee & Jeans Combo

Sew a crisp white t-shirt with a round or V-neckline and pair it with dark denim. Tuck it in, add a belt, and layer on a white blazer. Finish with bold jewelry—or even handmade jewelry if that’s your skill set. This simple swap takes jeans and a tee from ordinary to extraordinary.

Summer Tank & Shorts Update

Swap a plain tank for a short-sleeved tee with bell sleeves. Tuck it into linen shorts, add layered jewelry, and finish with a hat or lightweight blazer. It’s a polished casual look perfect for errands or lunch out.

White Jeans & Printed Top

Instead of letting a loose top hang shapeless, try a half tuck (or full tuck with a belt) to define your waist. It instantly gives structure to an otherwise relaxed outfit.

Maxi Dress Makeover

A billowy beach maxi dress can transform into a polished look with a waist belt, lightweight linen blazer, and wedge sandals. A few accessories complete the outfit.

With just a little creativity, you can re-style the same pieces in multiple ways. Sew timeless patterns, then refresh them seasonally with accessories, layers, or fabrics that reflect today’s trends.

The Sewist’s Advantage

The best part? Your sewn clothing is better than purchased clothing because it’s made with care, quality, and imagination. Your creations are one-of-a-kind and tailored to your body and personal style. Staying mindful of current trends ensures those handmade pieces feel modern, flattering, and confidence-boosting.

Choose sewing patterns that stand the test of time, fabrics that flatter your figure, and accessories that add polish. With a few updates each year, your wardrobe will always feel fresh—without losing the unique charm of handmade fashion.

“No matter what is happening around you, first take care of yourself. When you're balanced, all things will be gradually added to your life, and the changes you have asked for will occur.”

—Kryon

Need sewing patterns to jazz up your wardrobe? Browse my sewing shop for stylish sewing patterns, fabric, eBooks, and handmade 18" doll clothes!