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Get Pumped Up for Prom

Prom is something so exciting to look forward to, but it can sometimes come with a hefty price tag. Plus, lots of the dresses in stores are so unoriginal and overdone. That’s why here at Fabrictopia, we like to encourage our clients to try their hand at making their own prom dresses! Here are some popular trends that are hitting the prom scene now that you can incorporate into your own unique look.

Two-Piece Dresses

Jacqueline Evening Wear says that the new prom dress trend is two-piece dresses, and runways and red carpets across the world agree – crop tops with long, full skirts are in. If you’re looking for a style of dress that’s comfortable, trendy and fashion-forward, look no further. The options are endless. You can go with a pretty rosette satin version, or go all-in with sequins. Our spandex nylon fabrics are great for creating the top, too.

Illusions

Another hot trend this prom season is illusion – illusion backs, that is, according to David’s Bridal. But when you make it yourself, you can truly take it to the next level. Instead of using a see-through or skin-toned mesh to create your own version of an illusion back, why not use a different type of fabric on the back of your dress? Something like organza or specialty lace mixed with another fabric, like our L’amour satin will give your dress a major wow-factor, while creating something that is totally unique.

Bling

To incorporate a little something extra into your outfit, make a matching clutch! You don’t have to create a clutch from scratch. Instead, grab an old one out of your closet and reupholster it with a shiny new fabric, like our quad sequin line. Voilà! A new purse and a new look for less than half the price or buying something new off the shelf.

No matter what your style is, Fabrictopia has the perfect fabric for you to make the prom dress of your dreams. Stop by our store in Houston today at 6959 Harwin Drive or call us at 713-977-0747 for more information.

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January 06, 2017 1 tags (show)

Holiday Outfit Coordination for the Whole Family

As a busy parent, it is hard to find a moment to get everyone together for a nice family photo. That’s why many families schedule a time with a photographer right before the holidays to capture a beautiful moment that can be cherished for years to come – and used for their Christmas card.

But the real question is: What do you wear?

If you are an avid sewer and crafter, this is the perfect occasion to use your skills to create coordinated outfits for the entire family. The most popular sewing project is to create matching dresses for mothers and daughters.

The first step is to decide what type of dress you will be most comfortable in for your photographs. Many women prefer a dress with an empire waist, a maxi dress or an upscale A-line dress that could also be used for a fancy occasion. If you are feeling uncomfortable wearing a dress, you could also combine a skirt and top or choose to wear a simple pant.

After you choose your style, it’s time to make decisions for the rest of the family! For your daughter or daughters, you could create a similar style or a miniature version of your outfit. You will also want to pull together coordinating pieces for your husband and son. The easiest way to do this is to choose a color, color scheme or shades of the same color for each family member to wear and design each outfit around them. For the holidays, many like to wear solid white or black, a red-and-green color scheme or shades of blue.

Another fun and easy way to coordinate outfits is to use the same fabric throughout the various pieces. For example, you could create an A-line satin dress for you to wear, a satin shift dress for your daughter and satin bow ties for your husband and son. You could even use the same fabric to create a ribbon around your waist and another to tie in your daughter’s hair.

If you are skeptical about matching identically, your family could wear the same color scheme and you could incorporate the pattern of your daughter’s outfit into a small portion of your own outfit – from a scarf to a belt! Wearing small amounts of denim is also a simple way to match, but will make your photographs look cohesive.

Are you ready to get started on your coordinating outfits? Let Fabrictopia help you turn your idea into a reality! When you visit our Houston store, you will find a variety of high-quality fabrics to choose from and friendly staff to help you shop. Come down and see us today on Harwin Drive or give us a call at 713-977-0747.

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Fall Brings Cooler Weather – And Cool Styles!

It’s officially almost fall, DIYers, which means it’s time to get those fall fashions out of the back of your closet! Inevitably, there will be some stuff back there from last season that you’ll just have to toss or give away to charity. (What were you thinking with the bedazzled legwarmers?!) Luckily, there are plenty of popular do-it-yourself fashion trends for fall that we love at Fabrictopia. Check out some of our favorites below!

Denim

Seventeen Magazine says that you should never toss an old denim jacket. Instead, take it into this season by distressing it! You can use microplane – basically a lemon zester – to rub some style into last season’s jacket. Concentrate on areas that would be naturally distressed, like elbows and shoulders. Then, use scissors to rip off pockets, either half way or all the way, and slice slits in sleeves. For an extra touch, stitch in some new fabric to the jacket. You could use pleather to make shoulder or elbow pads, or add a floral design on the pockets. To finish, wash in warm water and trim loose strings. Voila!

Fringe

Fringe is oh-so-in right now, and you can add fringe easily to any item by simply adding some cut up fabric. Grab a piece of hearty fabric from Fabrictopia in your choice of color and stitch it to a backpack, handbag or pencil case to create an inexpensive, fashion-forward item.

Wrap Skirts

Wrap skirts are another hot fall item, says Fashionsy. You can make one out of any fabric you like, and even add accessories like pockets, zippers or buttons. With a customized wrap, you can look chic and trendy without spending twice as much or more by getting it from a store.

Come on down to Fabrictopia in Houston to gather your supplies, and then get going on that closet! You’ll save tons by doing some updates yourself, and it’ll be a blast, too. Stop in to check out our full selection or call us today at 713-977-0747 for more information on any fabric you’re looking for. 

 

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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.

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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.

 

 

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