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It’s rather fascinating — how much designers love to reinvent trends and weave era-specific themes into the latest global fashion collections. I’m referring to the statement “fashion likes a good comeback,” which is clearly demonstrated by the patchwork trend that is currently going wild in the industry. Patchwork is now back with better and more enticing aesthetics and also some nostalgic flair especially considering its quite popular peak in the 1970s.
What is Patchwork?
Patchwork is a method of creating larger geometric designs by sewing together small pieces of shaped textiles with a variety of patterns, colors, and textures. This type of needlework was once employed to make patchwork quilts, but it is now widely used in interior design and clothes.
The first time patchwork was used in clothing, it was as an economical approach to use up fabric remnants or to extend the useful life of a garment. Whether adding patches to a pair of jeans or making something more intricate, it was cheap, simple to do yourself, and a terrific way to add personality to an outfit.
The patchwork technique, regardless of its artistic reintroduction into today’s fashion, has a distinct, rich background, from poor men and women lovingly mending and patching worn cloth out of necessity for themselves and their children, to the contemporary interpretation that witnesses a range of fashion designers launching pieces of fabric into a framework of continuing style. More so, there is a unique differentiation with multiple fabrics that have been stitched together to create a form. Upper tension is one of the reasons for the bottom stitch loose, so always check that it is correct before starting your work.
What is so appealing about patchwork fashion today?
Recently, patchwork has been seen on everything from gowns to denim. In addition, it has evolved into a whole “style” that uses vibrant, contrasting colors and patterns to create a mismatched appearance as a counter to the streamlined mainstream fashion that is currently in vogue all over the world.
Photo: BACKGRID Patchwork’s contemporary popularity and appeal are quite hinged on the freedom of expression it gives to its wearer. In these days of typical fashion progression, showcasing your individual sense of style in your own way is not a negative thing at all. More so, there is a unique differentiation with multiple fabrics that have been stitched together to create a form. Here’s the more intriguing part —the patched texture, whether it is quilted, paneled, or patched, adds depth to any appearance.
Within the past year, the patchwork movement started an explosive bubble. A rising number of celebs and influencers have sported this vintage style including Harry Styles in his color-blocked JW Anderson cardigan and Alexa Chung in her patchwork, Peter Pan-collared jacket. Not to mention A$AP Rocky, who dominated 2021 Met Gala with his ERL patchwork quilt and garnered the most media attention.
Also, for many of us who have come to appreciate the trend, it is the extent of creativity and thoughtfulness put into assembling and making an elegant piece out of the many unmatched pieces involved that makes it even more appealing.
Some Tips for DIY Patchwork
If you enjoy fiddling with things and have some sewing machine experience. Voila! Making an outfit by combining your textiles will be simple as pie. Here’s what you can do if you want to explore a DIY patched-up style:
- Use fabrics with the same style of weave and fabric type when choosing your patchwork fashion textiles. This is so that your finished patchwork isn’t visibly all over the place
- Check the Fabric scraps table of designers around you. That’s a terrific spot to hunt for fabric for your patchwork projects.
- When it comes to color, you can either go all-out with flamboyant and opposing color-blocking designs or opt for a subtle patchwork of complementary hues.
Moving on, patchwork is a unique trend you’ll want to grasp hold of, whether you choose to wear it in all its ’70s splendor or as a subtle accessory. If you’re still unsure of how to launch into the burgeoning trend, you may want to explore the keyword, “Patchwork”, on Instagram. You’ll be inspired.
