We are so excited to welcome back an old friend, the Bells & Whistles pattern, to our collection. Over the years, we have had many requests to bring this style back. Finally, this summer after seeing a customer wear her Bells Shirt at a Sew Kansas event, we realized that the design is timeless. Bells & Whistles is not just a duo of boring old button-down shirts. For this pattern we have taken classic designs and redefined them with a twist. Both shirts feature unusual closure bands that add an avant garde look to a archetypal shape. The architectural elements add sophistication to the design. Dress them up with silk or go casual with cotton. Either way, Bells & Whistles will become a staple in your closet and your pattern collection.
threadWEAR 301
Whistle-less shirt in a handkerchief weight stripe linen that is easy to sew and wear.
Have you seen the latest Theads magazine?
Bells Shirt using the Bells and Whistles Shirt pattern.
Whistles Shirt without the "whistles" with added side panels and diagonal inserts.
Kwik Sew pattern with reversed stripe bottom band, contrasting cuffs and collar stand piecing.
Get the latest issue, September 2011 here.
The weather is toasty warm! This calls for light, airy fabrics in vivid pinks, greens and blues. Or if light, pale hues are more your style, stick to soft pastels or "faded" vintage plaids.
Here's how Linda stays cool in the Kansas humidity.
White Linen pants are a must! Top them off with a sheer button-down shirt or a short sleeve vest. I'm loving pink this summer! Can't get enough of it!
Clean & Modern, Simple & Always Fabulous!
Simple button-down shirt: Whistles Shirt with French Dubuffet-style Cotton Print
Slimming, narrow-leg pants: Zigzag Pants in Wool & Lycra in Black
Other Black & White Favorites:
Summer is all about feeling comfortable. How can I look put together and cool enough to brave the outdoor heat?
Answer? Keep it simple. Try a classic button-down, paired with simple, white pants. But don't forget about color, try vibrant pink or purple.