It’s time for another Fabric Focus and this week, we’re marrying the past and present to head out on the expedition of a lifetime, with Simplicity’s Safari Sunset. Yet before we head into the Savannah, let’s take a trip back in time.
Housed by Craft Cotton Company, Simplicity’s history within the sewing world is a rich one that certainly takes us back. Founded in 1927 New York, The Shapiro family’s goal was to make sewing at home far more accessible than it was at that time. Throughout the years, Simplicity went from strength to strength, becoming part of ‘The Core 4’, sitting strong alongside brands such as McCall’s, Butterick and Vogue Patterns. Becoming quite the name for themselves, Simplicity followed McCall’s suit in printing their pattern packs in full colour, delivering a much clearer vision of what the maker could see themselves fashioning. Not long after that, Caroline Shapiro formed the Education Department within the company, becoming noted as one of the first home economists in business.
(Images: eBay, Etsy)
By 1958, the company became one of the fastest growing pattern companies, opening offices in major cities, as well as distributing to over 60 countries. Ten years later, Caroline retired, yet her legacy clearly left a mark on the business. Fast-forward to the early eighties and Simplicity couldn’t be stopped – the ‘more is more’ approach went hand-in-hand with designing, seeing numerous public figures featured, such as Ali MacGraw and Christie Brinkley. Even legendary entertainer Ms. Diana Ross had a collection with the pattern house, licensing designs and modelling gowns, swimwear and workwear, as you can see above.
Simplicity continues to excel in modern day, as in more recent years, Sewn Adaptive have created carefully considerate patterns for clothing, providing both style and accessibility for people living with disabilities. For more on Simplicity’s illustrious history, click HERE. Without further delay, let’s get back to present day and take a look at their most recent collection in the warehouse, with Safari Sunset!
Although a small collection, each piece within Safari Sunset offers a different vibe, yet one that’s perfect for these summer months. Whether it’s sewing a stylish tote to take around with you, or fashioning something for the home, whatever you create is sure to strike up a conversation with these designs. Our personal favourite has to be Jungle Retreat; we’re loving the pop of orange on this gorgeous lady’s dress across these palm leaves. As well as the illustration style, the line work used just adds to that perfect mix of modern and vintage.
Although classed as a quilting fabric, Safari Sunset can still be used for dressmaking. Craft Cotton Company’s blog offers some great ideas, especially as Mary-Ellen from SheSewsHappiness created a stunning dress using a previous Simplicity collection, with wonderful results. To see how she created her piece, be sure to click HERE. Yet if you’re ready to get started on your own project, you can view the full collection of Safari Sunset, along with fat quarter bundles, HERE.
Well that’s it from us; we hope you’ve enjoyed this week’s Fabric Focus! For more inspiration, be sure to subscribe to The Craft Room below to never miss a post from us ✨Happy sewing!