Because I rarely attend dress-up functions I don’t want to spend weeks sewing something I’ll only wear a little (unless, I really want to make that particular item, or it’s a very special occasion). So my “fancy” clothes need to be fun and easy and, yes, still comfortable so that I am comfortable when wearing them (You can’t hide being uncomfortable).
For where I live, and the life I lead dressing up means basic wardrobe items in a non-basic fabric, like a t-shirt sewn in blue spangles which can then be worn with any skirt or pants I already own or a gold foil print elastic-waist knit skirt (1 hour to sew) worn with a black v-neck sweater.
Wearing pieces like these lets you feel a little more festive without looking like you tried too hard. Just easy, breezy, and a little sparkly.
The following styles are easy to pair with solid basics you probably already own, like a fine-gauged sweater or nice pants. You’ll be dressed for the party and comfortable enough for the grocery run.
Note:
The patterns below are just a sample of a style. There are hundreds of full skirt patterns, patterns for Ts, and so on. I looked for easy-to-sew patterns from well-known pattern makers. Please use any pattern you already have or look for vintage patterns on Etsy.
While links are provided for the fabrics these are only to the store where these fabrics were found. Links don’t go directly to the swatch shown because many of these fabrics have limited yardage. However, I did title the fabric exactly as the store did to do a search for it on the store’s site. Generally look for fabric categories such as metallics, lace, brocades, evening wear, special occasions, etc.
Easy to Sew Tank Tops
Tank tops are easy to sew – no sleeves. They look nice with a skirt, peeking out from under a cardigan or jacket, or on their own for outdoor summer parties.
There are so many tank top patterns available that you probably already have one.
Since tank tops don’t require much yardage, they’re the perfect item for pricier fabrics like your favorite Liberty of London print or silk.
Tanks are also perfect for shiny metallics since they don’t take up a lot of body space they allow you to sparkle subtly.
A binding finish used instead of a facing is perfect for sheer fabrics and lace.
A flowy camisole in silk or sateen looks upscale and adds a nice glow.
The easiest pieces to wear are a knit tank and a T-shirt. When people say they want to dress for comfort show them that it can be done stylishly.
Look for knits with Lurex, or spangles. Consider cutting out only the front in your fancy fabric and the back (and sleeves) in a coordinating or contrasting plain fabric. Don’t add binding to the neck and arms, instead, finish the raw edge with a serger, fold it in once, and stitch it down.
Easy-to-Wear Tees
A basic top, in a fancy fabric, can be dressed up or down. The neckline on both of these tops elevates them from a basic T-shirt.
Basic tops are great pieces for showcasing special fabrics.
Easy-to-Fit Skirts
A-line and straight jersey skirts are easy to fit and quick to sew. Keep fabric light to midweight for a flowy drape and less bulk in the elastic waist of the pencil skirt.
Long Full skirts say Party with a capital P. Sew in a statement fabric and keep your top really simple. You can choose almost any fabric for these styles, from metallic brocades to polished cotton.
Easy to Dress Pants
Pants don’t have to always be serious, especially at a party. Try a fun print or a great weave like Pique or sharkskin.
Velvet pants are being showcased in every holiday catalog. Why not make them comfortable with stretch velvet in a pull-on style with pockets? So easy.
Easy to Elevate Jackets
Fitted jackets are more involved to sew but a jacket that is too unstructured looks very casual. Look for styles like these, made for stable knits or wovens, with some shape but not tailored. For fabrics go all out with sequins or more subtle with velvet. Brocade and metallic suiting fabrics will look good too.
