Go Back to School Your Own Way
Back-to-school season is the perfect time of year to revamp your wardrobe, but that doesn’t mean you have to toss all your old stuff and shell out the big bucks to replace everything! No way. Instead, check out some of our DIY tips to go back to school your own way and personalize and revamp and revitalize your wardrobe.
Crop and Cut
According to College Express, the best way to revitalize all types of clothing is to get those scissors out. If you’re tired of an old top that you’ve worn a hundred times, try turning it into a crop top! Put the top on and measure the best spot to trim, and then get started. The same goes for jeans. For old jeans that you’re not crazy about anymore, trim them into cutoffs. Or, if you want to make last season’s jeans more fashion forward, trim some spots in the knees and thigh areas and then pull the threads a bit until they look purposefully and stylishly ripped.
Create Something New
If you have an old item you don’t use anymore, like a button down shirt or an old skirt, consider turning into something totally new, like a book bag, suggests Brit + Co! A little bit of sewing and some pleather details can take a boring old item of clothing and turn it into something new and exciting.
Experiment with Paint and Dye
Old tops and skirts can also be re-vamped by adding a fresh color. If you have a lot of dark clothing, you can use bleach to create new patterns. For example, use a Q-tip to create a polka dot pattern, or experiment with different fall shades!
For more DIY back to school tips, and some fabric inspiration, come on down to our shop in Houston! Our fabric selection will definitely have something you’ll love to help you to reinvigorate your fall back-to-school wardrobe. Stop in and see us today on Harwin Drive, or call Fabrictopia today at 713-977-0747 to learn more.
Summer Pageants: What's In Style Right Now?
This pageant season has seen a lot of really cool style trends, and we’re not just talking about the evening gowns. According to The Pageant Planet, there will be tons of flowy tops, cute and comfy skirts, simple jewelry, fun rompers and more on the pageant circuit this season. But we can’t ignore the evening gowns, of course, and the site also noted that the Miss America pageant included a lot of super fashion-forward summer trends that we expect will be popular at pageants all season long. Let’s take a look at a few of our favorites.
Cutouts
There’s no denying the cutout trend this season. From dresses to even swimsuits, all sorts of attire is following the trend of cool one-pieces with super intricate and cool cutouts! The Miss America pageant was no exception, and many of the gorgeous ladies wore dresses for the evening gown portion that included detailed cutouts. It’s the perfect way to take a classically beautiful dress and make it a little more fashion forward and edgy.
Two Pieces
Some contestants also left their classic dresses at home in favor of a two-piece gown. All of the starlets are wearing them these days – and the Miss America contestants did, too! A two-piece dress tends to be more casual than a proper evening gown, but it definitely brings the dress to a new fashion level.
Color Blocking
Color blocking is a trend that’s been around for a while, but we think it might be here to stay. Instead of a one-color dress, a color-blocked dress features a single color prominently in one place, and another somewhere else. For example, a gown with a black top portion and a red skirt is color blocked. There’s no denying that this trend makes a statement, and our wide selection of satins are the perfect option for creating the perfect color contrast.
Sparkles
Is there any ignoring this trend on the pageant circuit? Sparkles are always in style! Whether you’re talking about your jewelry or an intricately beaded dress, there are plenty of options for adding a shimmer to your dress with our glitz fabrics or classic quad sequins. A dress featuring these fabrics is sure to shine!
Jewel Tones
This one is a little surprising. Instead of the softer and more floral colors that we tend to see during the summer months, the Miss America ladies wore plenty of jewel tones. The bold colors, paired with the cool new cut out and color-blocked designs, made a huge impression on stage, and is sure to do the same at any pageant on your schedule this summer.
For any DIY dressmakers out there who are spending the summer on the pageant circuit, Fabrictopia has all the fabrics you need to make your one-of-a-kind, fashion-forward gowns! Come on down to our shop in Houston and check out our wide selection of fabrics today!
What Are the Latest Fashions, Trends and Styles in Swimwear?
It’s officially swimsuit season, and you know what that means: it’s time to freshen up your beach wardrobe! It can be tough to find a suit that fits your style and needs in stores, and they can be quite expensive. That’s why we’ve put together some of the best 2016 swimsuit trends that you can create on your own at home.
Fringe
FringeFringe is very in, when it comes to purses and swimsuits alike. If you have an old suit in your drawer that could use some updating, considering adding a layer of fringe! The selection of spandex nylon fabrics at Fabrictopia is perfect for this project. You can use an online pattern or eyeball the length you’re going for to add an updated element to last year’s suit and make it perfect for this season.
Moroccan Patterns
Patterns are in, especially the Moroccan style. This style features bold colors and intricate patterns – it’s a look that isn’t afraid to stand out! We have a great selection of Moroccan-style fabric prints for you to choose from, whether you’re creating a new suit from scratch or sewing over the fabric of an outdated one.
Cutouts
Cutouts are in for all kinds of clothing this season, and for the summer, swimsuits are no exception. You can create cool, unique cutout patterns in a one-piece swimsuit by using any print of fabric as the base – just make sure you’ll be covered up in the right spots!
Sporty
If you’re not a fan of the super girly, patterned swimsuits, you’re in luck: the sporty style is making a comeback this summer. Sporty suits are simpler, with simple single-color patterns, and comfortable shapes that almost look like sports bras. If you’re only thinking about comfort when it comes to your suit, try using our spandex nylon fabrics to create a cute and comfy sporty-style suit.
These styles are all the rage this summer, and Fabrictopia has all the fabric you need to get started creating your own new swimsuit for the summer, whether you’re making yours from scratch or updating last year’s suits with the latest trends! Come on down to our shop at 6959 Harwin Drive in Houston to check out our selection and consult with our fabric experts about your project today.
Best Fabrics for Summer Clothing
Here comes the heat – and with it, the summer wardrobe. When shopping for summer fabrics to use in your next chic sewing project, remember to look for something lightweight and breathable and avoid fabric that is heavy and ornate. Trust us, you will thank yourself when you are out in the blazing sun. To help narrow down your choices, here are our top four favorite fabrics for summer clothing.
Cotton
We’re sure you saw this one coming, but cotton is a versatile fabric that can be used for all your projects – not just summer ones. Available in different weights, colors, patterns and styles, cotton can be transformed into a variety of stylish, warm-weather garments. Plus, this natural fiber fabric is durable and comfy. How can you go wrong with that?
Linen
The ultimate summer fabric, linen is breathable and light – perfect for a sunny, breezy day. The fine threads of linen help the material dry faster when wet, which is why this is a popular choice for the beach. Sew a pair of loose pants or an airy dress that can be dressed up or down all summer long. Want to make yourself ever cooler? Choose a light color fabric to help reflect light and heat.
Rayon
Are you looking to sew a tube dress or large, flowy top for the summer? Rayon should be your fabric of choice! This man-made material is composed from natural cellulose, and this comfy fabric will help keep you cool if you are experiencing a scorcher. Plus, it will absorb humidity, helping you feel lighter and ready to seize the day instead of tired and weighed down.
Silk
Are we really suggesting silk? Yes, yes we are. Although dreaded sweat stains may appear on silk, it is a natural fiber that is excellent at beating the heat and humidity. This luxurious material will make you feel like a queen and can create a light, comfortable garment. If you are still a little skeptical, sew a fancy blouse and out-on-the-town dress to wear during cooler, summer nights.
No matter your inspiration for your one-of-a-kind summer sewing project, Fabrictopia can help you find the perfect fabric to make you feel ready for a day in the sun or a hot summer night. Find the ideal lightweight materials you are searching for by visiting the Fabrictopia store on Harwin Drive in Houston, or call us today at 713-977-0747 for even more information on picking the perfect fabrics for warm weather.
Save During Pageant Season - DIY Dress Ideas
Pageant season is almost upon us, and you know what that means – it’s time for a new dress! If you buy a dress off the rack for a pageant this year, it can cost you a fortune, and you run the risk of having the same style as someone else. Fortunately, you can have your own style and save money by creating your own dresses. Here are some DIY dress ideas from Fabrictopia.
The first thing you’ll need to do is review the pageant’s attire guidelines. Make sure that you’re aware of any length, color or style stipulations before you get started. Once you know what kind of rules you’re working with, you and your pageant star can visit our store to pick out the perfect fabric!
You’ll likely want to select a material that’s shiny and eye-catching, but not too over the top. The fabric should be a color and style that your girl will love wearing on stage. For people who have no experience in dressmaking, you might want to start with a simple, inexpensive dress in the same color as your chosen fabric to use as a base.
Once you see how the base dress fits on your daughter, you’ll start to get an idea of what you need to do to transform the simple dress into a pageant-worthy gown. Adding layers of fabric and tulle to the base dress can go a long way to adding some glitz and glam. You can even use tulle as a base with a solid-color fabric to finish off the skirt to create a ball gown look.
If you’re adding sleeves, you might want to use a pattern that you find online as a guideline. Clothing Patterns 101 offers a few options, including this easy-to-make cap sleeve.
Once your extra fabric is added to the base dress, you’ll have the form of the pageant gown. Now, all that is left to do is add embellishments, sparkle and style! If your pageant girl is fashion forward, ask her for some input on the finishing touches. She’ll be even more excited to wear the dress on stage if she had a hand in creating it!
We wish you and your little competitor the best at your pageant, and we’d love to see the dresses you’ve created! Stop in and let us help you find the right fabric today, and don’t forget to stop back or email us a picture so we can see you and your little one’s creativity at work!
To learn more or to inquire about specific fabric options, swing by the store on Harwin Drive in Houston, or call us today at 713-977-0747.
#Trending: What’s Hot for Springtime Fashion?
As spring enters the scene in 2016, fashionistas prepare their ensembles to match the hottest springtime trends for this year. From skinny scarves to pleated pieces, opportunities for creativity and femininity abound. Here are five trends to watch out for in spring 2016 with the fabrics you need to make the look happen.
Statement Scarf 
Transform your 2015 printed, silk fabric scarf that was the focus point of your outfit into the 2016 skinny, long statement piece. Using fabrics like satin for a soft look or sequins to add some glitz to your ensemble, the key here is to aim for a thin scarf rather than a bulky, heavy scarf. This scarf isn’t used to keep warm – rather, this scarf shows off your trendy, fashionable side.
Slitted Skirt
Skirts with slits were all the rage in 2015, with the point behind the skirt to draw attention by pairing with neutral-colored skirts. In 2016, fashionistas should draw attention to more than the slit skirt by adding an avant-garde twist to their style, says PopSugar.com. Create an oversized bow for your skirt with fabrics like sequins or lace, or add some elegance with a touch of satin.
Slip Dress
2016 will be the year of the slinky, silky slip dress, according to WhoWhatWear.com. The best way to get the look is by making your own dress in simple black or an elegant color. Try satin or fitted spandex nylon to really attract the fashion attention you seek.
Mixed Metallics
Mixed metallics are finding their place in 2016 fashion in the form of shoes, bags, clothes and nail polish. Add a hint of metallic to your getup with some metallic tissue lame, perfect for lettering and decorations. Consider embellishing your bag with some tissue lame to make it pop – a fun spring project that will show off your passion for fashion.
Pleated Pieces
Complete your springtime wardrobe with a light and airy pleated piece in your favorite fabric. Whether you make a dress, a skirt or a top, pleated pieces are having their moment to shine in 2016. Choose from a wide variety of fabrics in different colors, patterns and textures to create the look that’s perfect for you.
For even more ideas or to look through our expanded collection of fabrics, stop in and see us at Fabrictopia today, located on Harwin Drive in Houston.
Six Hot DIY Fashion Trends for Spring
Spring is a great time to update your wardrobe with the latest trendy pieces, but if you’re not willing to pay full price for styles that can cost a pretty penny, why not try a do-it-yourself version to save some money? Doing it yourself is a great way to both look fashionable and save money, plus you’ll be able to put your own spin on the season’s most popular trends.
Here are six hot DIY fashion trends for spring.
Decorated Denim
There’s never a reason to throw away an old pair of jeans that you don’t wear anymore. If you have a worn out pair of pants, why not turn them into cutoffs? A true fashionista knows that you can add a lot of style to an old pair of cutoffs by adding a little something extra. Choose a fabric you love to accent the jeans by sewing it over the pockets. Use rhinestones and fabric glue for a more bling look, or try fabric paint swirls to make your shorts stand out.
Lacy Tank
There are tons of lacy tanks on the market this season, and it’s one of the hottest trends of late. Shelling out tons of money for one little tank top isn’t always doable, though. Instead, recycle an old tank you have in your closet by updating it. Choose a lacy fabric, and cut it carefully into shapes. You could take those cuts to make a lace trim along the edges of the tee, or add a flower pattern over top. Use a bit of fabric glue and stitches to secure your lace, and voila: a brand new, on-trend tank.
Envelope Skirt
The envelope wrap skirt continues to be one of the most unique trends, and Swell Mayde offers a great look at making one yourself. If you’re savvy with a sewing machine, there’s no reason to pay full price or settle for a cookie-cutter design. Instead, choose a heavy fabric, cut, hem and, using your body as a guide for size, choose the spot where the button goes. You can even use a zipper for an accent.
Tutu Skirt
One of the season’s edgier trends (at least that involves tulle) is the tutu. You can make your own easily with tulle in the color of your choosing, ribbon and a pair of scissors. Cut the tulle into even strips, and measure your waist for the ribbon length. Tie the tulle around the ribbon using a slipknot until the ribbon is full. Then, when you’re ready to wear, just tie the ribbon around your waist.
Color Blocks
Color blocking has been all over the runway, so why not make your own piece? Use a dress or shirt that you’ve had in the back of your closet for ages, and sew on pieces of fabric in the color of your choosing. It won’t be a seamless and clean look, but it’ll be your own take on the design.
Spring Bag Update
Spring is the season for ditching the boring black and tan leather bag that you’ve been toting around all winter, but who wants to buy a whole new purse to use for a few weeks? Instead of spending tons of money, recycle one of your older bags by making a fabric slipcase for it. Choose any style fabric you like in a fun spring print or color, and give new life to your old tote.
These are just some of the things you can do to update your wardrobe this spring. For even more ideas, come on down to our store in Houston, Texas and check out our countless fabric styles and designs to get some fabric inspiration of your own.
Easter Fashion: A History and a Look Ahead
Wearing new clothes on Easter is a tradition that has been passed down from generation to generation. Strolling in with a fresh outfit to dinner, church or any other seasonal event or observance has been a solidified ritual for as long as any of us can remember. Let’s take a look back through history and review the archives around these Easter dress traditions.
Before Easter became a majestic celebration of spring, ancient cultures would dress to the nines whilst commemorating the springtime gods and goddesses, particularly Ostera, the Germanic spring goddess, notes Fashion Club. Wearing new clothing at these times was thought to be an omen of good luck in the new season following the vernal equinox. Similar to Easter, the Iranian New Year (celebrated on the first day of spring) has a pre-Islamic foundation grounded in the dreaded “spring cleaning” idea, and as with pagan cultures, wearing new clothes symbolized positivity in hopes of progress. Even on the Eastern Hemisphere, Chinese festivities for the Lunar New Year occur in the spring and new clothing is the appropriate choice for a fresh start in the new year.
Moving to Christian traditions, in the infant years of Christianity, the newly baptized would wear white linen robes on Easter to symbolize the recurring trait of rebirth. However around 300 A.D., Emperor Constantine insisted by decree that his men wear the finest new clothes on Easter and dispose of the articles of clothing they bore for the Lenten weeks prior. Ultimately, the entire idea became the undisputed marking point for the conclusion of Lent.
In more recent decades, the Easter tradition has been aligned more with elegant fashion, taking the meaning of “new” and changing it to “chic” and “fashionable.” This year, there are many popular trends. Of course, there’s pastel – always an Easter favorite. In fact, the 2016 Pantone Colors of the Year – Rose Quartz and Serenity – are great shades of pink and blue, as well, making them great and popular choices. Dash of Chic also suggests that for dresses, thin, brightly colored belts are in style, as are dress sleeves with fringed detail – keeping the throwback tradition, this year taking fashion back to the ‘70s. If you’re looking for something beyond pastel, peach is another common color choice and offers a seasonally subtle color for any fashion choice.
Whatever shade, whatever style and whatever fabric choice you prefer, you’re sure to be able to find it at Fabrictopia. We offer hundreds of different colors and materials to help you make the perfect look for the Easter season – or any other occasion. Get an idea of some of the patterns and styles that we carry in the store by taking at a look at our designs online, and be sure to stop in to our store on Harwin Drive in Houston or give us a call at 713-977-0747 to pick up the perfect fabrics today.
Accessorize for Prom With Style
Prom is right around the corner, and while it’s a celebrated high school tradition, if you’re not careful you can end up spending a lot of money on your prom experience. Instead of breaking the bank with the cookie cutter styles and accessories you’ll find at the mall, check out these “prom fashion hacks” from Seventeen Magazine, and personalize your prom experience without spending too much.
Shoes
ShoesEveryone knows that your shoes are very important part of the prom outfit, but spending a bunch of money on a pair you’ll probably only wear once is so last season. Instead, grab a pair out of your closet and give them new life by adding a fabric heel harness. You can use a sequined fabric, or something more formal like a solid colored silk. All you have to do is choose the type and look of fabric you want to use, measure out how much to cut, and secure carefully with a hot glue gun. Ta-da – brand new shoes!
You can also use strips of fabric and a glue gun to decorate flip flops for you and your friends to wear around the dance floor when the heels start to hurt your feet. It’ll be so much better dancing in your custom flips than running around barefoot!
Clutch
Instead of buying a whole new clutch to match your dress and shoes perfectly, why not use some fabric to modify a purse you already have? Using the ribbon and fabric of your choice – and some feathers or other accents if you dare – create a new pattern, and then carefully hot glue it to your old clutch. You’ll save money and end up with a completely original clutch to tote your phone and lipstick at the prom.
Flowers
Whether you’re attending the prom with a date or rolling in with a bunch of your friends, consider making DIY fabric flowers instead of buying fresh boutonnieres or bouquets. Fabric flowers will not only save you a bit of money, but they’ll also last forever, leaving you with a special keepsake to always remember your prom.
If you love any of these ideas and can’t wait to get started, visit our store in Houston to pick out the fabrics you’ll use. For even more DIY ideas – for prom or for any other occasion – check out our blog!
Top Prom Dress Trends for 2016
As the season changes from winter to spring, it means that prom is just around the corner! This major milestone is an exciting one in your high school career. The night’s events will be documented with tons of pictures, tweets and Snapchats, of course, but the most important part for any prom-bound girl is finding the perfect dress! While many will choose to buy a dress online or at the mall, you may feel like the right dress for you just isn’t out there. Don’t pick something that’s good enough for this major event – why not have a custom dress tailored just for you? At Fabrictopia, we can help you find the perfect fabric to inspire your creativity and make your dream dress come to life. When envisioning your dress, here are some 2016 style trends to help inspire your own design ideas.
Short & Sweet
Short & SweetAlthough prom is typically known for long dresses, it is OK to strut your own style in a short dress. Make your prom dress eye-catching by featuring a solid-colored, silk fabric, perhaps in a pure white, baby pink or midnight blue shade. You can even doll it up with rhinestones and a jewel trim. Want to really shine? Deck the dress top to bottom in sequins!
Cropped Tank & Skirt
Instead of a dress, why not go to prom in a cropped tank with a long, asymmetrical skirt? Show your personality by choosing a fabric with a texture or pattern like florals or watercolors. If you are a girl who is always looking to sparkle, create a white and silver sequin bodice with a solid royal blue skirt. Adding your own style to a popular trend is sure to make you stand out in a crowd.
Long Ombré
Right now, ombré is hot! Start with a classic black or deep shade of your favorite color at the top of your dress and shimmer down to a brighter color, like bright purple or pink or a stunning green or blue. Create a one-shoulder strap for a modern twist, or go strapless with a sweetheart neckline for a beautiful classic. Feeling curvy and proud? Add an empire waist!
Illusion Necklines
Use sheer, mesh fabric in nude shades at the top of your dress to create an illusion neckline. Neutral dress colors like nude and cream are timeless and flattering. Dress up the fabric by adding a floral applique or small ruffles that trickle all the way down to the bottom of the gown. Add a satin belt in the same color as your dress as the perfect accessory to emphasize your waist.
Trumpet
Another short dress trend, the trumpet has a close-fitting bodice with a flared skirt. Choose a pattern that represents your personal style, like small polka dots or a lace overlay in baby blue or rose pink to show off to your friends. Feature your favorite pair of heels or make it country themed by wearing a pair of cowboy boots to prom.
Color Block
Sharpen your long, A-line gown with two-toned fabric. Choose two bold colors – one for the top and one for the bottom of the dress – to make your gorgeous gown pop. Both strapless and halter tops are a favorite for this type of dress, and you can make it all the more unique with supportive boning and a notched straight neckline.
Classic Chiffon
You can’t go wrong with the always-trendy long, silk chiffon gown. This classic dress usually features a sweetheart neckline with off-the-shoulder straps or strapless fits. For the girly girl, add rhinestone jewels at the neckline or a beaded bodice for a bit of sparkle. It is easy to add your own flare for a chic edge.
From light satin to chiffons to laces, Fabrictopia offers a variety of high-class fabrics in rich colors that are perfect to make you and your dress shine on your prom night. Committed to excellent service, we are happy to help you shop! For questions about fabrics, come visit us at our shop or call us at 713-977-0747.