For me, creating fabric and styling posts has become one of the most enjoyable parts of designing a sewing pattern. As I work on each pattern, I start gathering inspiration photos to share with you once that pattern is released. Honestly, I’m often amazed at how many images I end up collecting during each season. It feels like validation that I’m staying current without being overly trendy, since I truly prefer timeless styles.
Speaking of trends, before I dive into the main focus of today's post, here’s what Jenna Lyons, the creative director at J. Crew (whom I think is incredibly insightful), had to say about trends:
> "Trend is a dirty word to me. What I care about are changes in proportion. When it feels like pants are getting skinnier or waistbands are moving a little higher, that matters to me. But we’re not about clothes you buy because they’re on trend; we’re about beautiful pieces you buy because you want to wear them every day."
I couldn’t agree more with this perspective. I aim to design styles that stand the test of time. There are countless trends I intentionally avoid because I don’t want you to feel pressured to discard your handmade garments after just a year or two. After all, why bother sewing clothes that only have a short shelf life? Instead, I focus on experimenting with proportions and details, just like Jenna mentioned. My goal is to help you feel confident and comfortable in the clothes you sew from our patterns, and I want them to be pieces you genuinely love to wear.
That said, sometimes a little inspiration can go a long way. Whether you're looking for guidance on planning your sewing projects or simply need ideas for putting together outfits in the morning, browsing through photos can be incredibly helpful. How are others styling similar pieces? What combinations do they pair them with, and does it spark any new ideas for mixing and matching your wardrobe? Is there someone whose style you admire, from whom you can draw inspiration?
I keep a small stack of magazine tear sheets in my closet for those days when I’m stuck or feeling uninspired. When I flip through them, I often find something that catches my eye, and it helps me decide what to wear. Surprisingly, this habit saves me time and keeps my outlook on my wardrobe fresh. Consider these fabric and styling posts as your own virtual tear sheet collection—your personal cheat sheet. If you ever find yourself unsure about what to wear, use these posts for ideas! These digital tear sheets might also inspire your fabric choices. You could even print them out and create your own physical collection in your closet. I’ve saved all of these images to the Liesl + Co. pattern styling ideas Pinterest board, so you can curate your own boards using them too.
Let’s take a closer look at the Maritime Knit Top!
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[Insert Image of Maritime Knit Top]
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1. **Classic Style Icon**: Picture Brigitte Bardot in one of her iconic striped tops. She perfectly embodies the timeless appeal of a simple striped shirt.
2. **French Chic**: For a classic French-inspired look, pair the Maritime Top with slim black trousers and ballet flats. Alternatively, wide-leg trousers would add a retro flair.
3. **Another Iconic Look**: Jeanne Seberg carried the Breton stripe trend into fashion history. This is a versatile piece that works across generations.
4. **Modern French Glamour**: Audrey Tautou continues the legacy with her effortlessly chic style, proving that stripes never go out of style.
5. **Stripes & Floral**: Combine the Maritime Top with a pencil skirt for a mix of bold patterns. The contrast between stripes and florals creates an interesting visual effect.
6. **Side Zippers**: Adding a zipper along the side seam can elevate the Maritime Top into something more unique. Think about how this detail could enhance your personal style.
7. **Yellow & Navy Combo**: A yellow pencil skirt paired with a belt complements the navy and white stripes beautifully.
8. **Jacket & Statement Necklace**: Layering the Maritime Top under a blazer with a standout necklace adds sophistication to the look.
9. **Dressy Accessories**: Elevate the Maritime Top with heels, a clutch, and a chunky belt for a night-out-ready ensemble.
10. **Floral Twist**: Pair the Maritime Top with a fun, flirty floral skirt. The mix of patterns works well when they share a cohesive color palette.
11. **Bow & Keyhole**: Incorporating a bow and keyhole detail at the back gives the Maritime Top a playful yet polished touch. Shelley even wrote a tutorial on how to achieve this look!
12. **Chambray Skirt**: Wear the Maritime Top with a chambray Everyday Skirt for a timeless, classic combo.
13. **Maxi Skirt**: For summer, try pairing the Maritime Top with a maxi skirt for a breezy, relaxed look.
14. **Gold & White Stripes**: The gold and white stripe option is stunning. Keep an eye out for Saint James fabrics that match this aesthetic!
15. **Casual Chic**: Denim jackets and cargo-style pants give the Maritime Top a laid-back, modern vibe.
16. **Curved Hem Inspiration**: This look reminds me of the City Stroll Wrap Skirt. Imagine pairing it with the Lisette moto jacket B6169 for a cute and edgy outfit!
17. **Summer Shorts**: Cut-offs or shorts paired with the Maritime Top are perfect for casual summer looks. Accessorize with fun pieces to complete the outfit.
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Here are a few additional styling ideas:
I absolutely adore the color-blocked stripes on this top. With all the Saint James options available, you could easily recreate a similar look at home!
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[Insert Image of Color-Blocked Maritime Top]
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Consider adding embroidery to the neckline. If needed, widen the neck facing for extra support. Here’s a beginner-friendly embroidery tutorial to get you started!
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[Insert Image of Embroidered Maritime Top]
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Layering the Maritime Top is another great way to expand its versatility. The layered sleeves shown here are particularly striking.
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[Insert Image of Layered Maritime Top]
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Adding a pocket is a subtle yet effective way to personalize the Maritime Top. The change in stripe direction adds a playful element.
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[Insert Image of Maritime Top with Pocket]
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This look is undeniably cute and summery, especially when paired with shorts and a hat. What better way to embrace summer?
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[Insert Image of Maritime Top with Shorts]
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Don’t restrict yourself to stripes alone. The Maritime Top looks equally charming in solid colors and other patterns. Later today, I’ll post an Instagram photo of the short-sleeved woven version I’m wearing. Feel free to share your creations in our Liesl + Co. Flickr group or on Instagram using the #maritimetop hashtag.
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As always, thank you for joining me on this journey of creativity and style exploration. Let’s continue to inspire each other and celebrate the joy of sewing!
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