Oh, the versatility of a close-fitting waistcoat when your wardrobe sways towards ‘gentlewoman-style’. The Miller Waistcoat from Merchant & Mills is easy to make and such a versatile wardrobe edition.

If you’re looking for a casual, boxy, utilitarian jacket with some interesting details, then the Ottoline from Merchant & Mills could be a good choice. In spite of a few reservations regarding its construction, here are my thoughts on what makes it such a stylish, versatile option.

As sewists we are all designers, making decisions regarding style, colour, texture, cohesiveness, shape etc. So when a style doesn’t work out, not only can it be disappointing but it can also make us question our design capabilities, our style choices and consequently impact upon our self-esteem.

For a long time, a tulle skirt has been on my wishlist, but why did I wait so long? I love, love, love this skirt! It’s totally different from anything I normally wear – far more feminine – but every time I look at it, it just makes me feel joyful!