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Style isn't static—it evolves as we grow, change careers, move to new places, or simply discover new aspects of ourselves. In this episode, we explore how to navigate these style transitions with confidence and intention. We'll share practical strategies for understanding what's changing in your preferences, what's staying the same, and how to approach updating your handmade wardrobe thoughtfully.
How to Evolve Your Handmade Wardrobe as Your Style Changes
Whether you've become a parent and need more practical clothing, retired and want to express your creative side, or simply noticed that your old favorites don't feel right anymore, style evolution is a natural part of life. When you're a sewist, these transitions can feel especially significant because you're investing time and energy into each handmade piece. Here's how to navigate style changes with intention and confidence.
- Make a list of what has changed for you
This is such a helpful starting point because change affects our clothing needs in ways we might not immediately recognize. Think about practical changes first—did you move to a different climate? Start a new job? Have kids? These obvious shifts often require wardrobe adjustments. But also consider subtler changes. Maybe you're more confident now and want to try bolder colors, or perhaps you've developed sensitivities to certain fabrics. One friend moved from suburbia to a walkable city and suddenly realized she needed completely different shoes and clothing that worked for walking everywhere.
- Make a list of things that have stayed the same
This is just as important as identifying what's changed, because it helps you hold onto what's working. Think about the garments you consistently reach for, the colors that always make you feel confident, or the silhouettes that make you feel like yourself. Your personal history matters here. If you've always loved wearing dresses, that's probably not going to change even if the style of dress evolves. This exercise is really grounding when you're feeling uncertain about your direction. Sometimes we get so focused on what we want to change that we lose sight of our foundational preferences.
- Create or update your core style mood board
If you already have a Pinterest board or folder of inspiration images, give it a fresh look and update it. If you don't have one, now's a great time to start collecting images that represent how you want to feel in your clothes. Don't just look at clothing—include lifestyle images, color palettes, even textures that appeal to you. The key is to save images that make you think "yes, that's me" rather than "that's pretty." This kind of visual exploration helps you identify emerging themes in your evolving style preferences.
- Evaluate what you actually wear
This one can be eye-opening! Sometimes we think we know our style, but our actual wearing habits tell a different story. Try taking photos of what you wear for a week or two—not for social media, just for your own reference. Look for patterns. Are you always reaching for the same three handmade pieces? What do they have in common? Also notice what's hanging unworn. Sometimes a garment looks great on the hanger but doesn't feel right when you put it on. This exercise can help you realize whether you're making too many "special occasion" pieces and not enough everyday workhorses.
- Start small with intentional planning
Instead of trying to overhaul your entire closet, focus on planning just one season thoughtfully. Choose maybe three to five pieces that would really improve your current wardrobe and lifestyle. Think about how these pieces will work with what you already own and love. This approach lets you test new directions without committing to a complete style revolution. It's like having a creative conversation with yourself about who you're becoming, one project at a time.
Style evolution doesn't have to be scary or overwhelming—it can actually be one of the most exciting parts of sewing. Every choice you make, from the pattern you select to the fabric you choose, is an opportunity to think creatively about who you are and how you want to show up in the world. And the beautiful thing is, none of these decisions are permanent. You can always make something different next time.
What about you? Have you gone through periods where your style felt like it was shifting? We'd love to hear about your experience navigating style changes in your sewing journey!
