Autumn, in Draft
Autumnal sewing and knitting plans; a seasonal wardrobe in the making.
Autumn is, in many ways, the richest season for style. It calls for warmth, layers, and texture. And with that, making our own clothes can feel more complex: sewing heavier fabrics, knitting denser stitches, learning new techniques. It’s sound like a lot, yet it doesn’t need to feel intimidating. With patience, preparation, and a sense of motivation, the process becomes deeply rewarding. So, here’s a glimpse into my autumn projects: 10 pieces I’ll be shaping over the coming months, with the hope they’ll live in my wardrobe for years to come.
This list of plans isn’t made on a whim. It comes from long consideration and a reaction to how little inspiration I find in most commercial collections. Instead, I’m guided by what I truly enjoy wearing and by the silhouettes that feel right on me. After years of building an intentional wardrobe (half bought, half self-made) I finally love what hangs in my closet. Styling feels natural, and while there are always small tweaks to make, I have a strong foundation to build on.
That’s why many of my autumn projects may look familiar. I’m choosing to revisit patterns I already own, creating a capsule with shapes I know and love. It keeps costs lower, the pace calmer, and it leaves room to focus on a few new patterns. Some projects are already in progress; others I’ll start fresh. If one or two don’t make it this season, that’s fine. What matters is having direction. And with these ten pieces, I can’t wait to begin.
Knitting
1. Easy vest - Rows Knitwear
I’ve never been the biggest fan of knitted vests, especially in the colder seasons, when I’m always freezing. But autumn so far hasn’t really been cold; it’s that ambiguous in-between weather where you’re never quite sure what to wear. And that’s exactly where a vest can be interesting. Still, the Easy Vest isn’t your average slipover. The silhouette is slightly boxy yet refined, finished with thoughtful ribbing that adds subtle shaping. I especially love the way the sample is styled, with a blouse underneath, puffed sleeves just peeking out (hold on to that detail; it will connect beautifully with another project from this list). I did once own a vest, but it was tight and meant to be worn as a top, something I never reached for. But this vest feels like an opportunity to experiment with layering in a way that adds dimension, especially in an oversized fit. That’s what’s makes it inspiring and fresh to me.
I’m knitting mine in size M (for a more oversized look), using Drops Merino (c50) held together with Kid-Silk (c12).
2. Outline sweater - Rows Knitwear
This sweater has truly stolen my heart. It’s not your average knit: the Outline Sweater holds a subtle detail that makes both the knitting process and the styling more exciting. The first sample, in a soft light shade, shows how refined and polished it looks in a uniform color. But when the front and back pieces are joined with a contrasting yarn, the design reveals its essence. A thoughtful yet minimalist detail that completely transforms an everyday sweater.
I was tempted to recreate the graphite grey version with its crisp white contrast, but I’ve been longing for a dark chocolate knit for so long. So I chose Drops Alaska in shade c70, with c69 for the crochet attachment. It’s a WIP (work in progress), but already close to finished, and I have zero regrets about the color choice. It blends seamlessly into my wardrobe, and I can already picture endless styling options. Still, each time I see this graphite, dark grey sample, I think I should make another one. And maybe I will. Mistakes crept into the brown version anyway, so it could be the perfect excuse. Not an immediate plan, but don’t be surprised if the same sweater reappears in a different shade.
3. Scout scarf - Rows Knitwear
By now, it’s clear that Rows Knitwear is my PetiteKnit. If you’re new to the knitting community, you’ll quickly understand the comparison. I already have plans for a few PetiteKnit patterns, but they don’t excite me in the same way Rows Knitwear’s designs do. While many are knitting (or dreaming of) the Sophie Scarf, I find myself drawn instead to the Scout Scarf, especially in a bold color. The vibrant pink sample has a special place in my heart, but I want my version to be both striking and wearable. For that reason, I’ll begin with a shade I already love to wear (and to eat): 🍊🧡🥕
A small disclaimer: as a beginner knitter, the stitch used for this scarf may look easy, but it’s actually quite daunting for my level. I’ve swatched it several times, but there’s always one section I struggle to get right. And with this yarn, frogging isn’t exactly easy. Still, I’m determined to practice. Once the stitch clicks, it’s simply a matter of repetition until the scarf is finished.
My version will be made in Drops Air, color c38.
Sewing
4. Corduroy Barrel-leg trousers - The Assembly Line
Barrel-leg trousers were a silhouette I initially resisted, but over time they grew on me. I wasn’t sure whether my interest came from genuine appreciation or from the influence of influencers. Perhaps it was Brittany ‘s styling that made me realize how sculptural and compelling the shape can be. During a long stay in Portugal, I bought my first pair of barrel-leg trousers, that I love to wear. But it’s oversized and far too long for my frame. Yet I’ve been longing for a version that feels closer to my proportions, more attuned to my own wardrobe.
To begin, I’ve decided to make a pair in a rich brown corduroy, cut from a 4m (!) thrifted fabric: we’re talking about a rare and lucky find. The Barrel-Leg Trousers pattern is new to me, though not my first from The Assembly Line. Their designs always place me in the mindset of an experienced tailor, guiding me through professional techniques that make the process of learning both challenging and deeply rewarding.
5. Wide-leg pants - Peppermint Magazine
It’s not my intention to create Sézane dupes, yet their trousers are undeniably impeccable. I’m drawn to pieces that move seamlessly between casual and formal, trousers that, with the right styling, become timeless classics. Whatever the occasion, a silhouette like this always feels polished and put together.
I haven’t made the Wide-Leg Pants pattern before, but I have experience with an In The Folds collaboration for Peppermint Magazine: the Wrap Skirt (which I’ve sewn twice). That project confirmed how enjoyable and well-constructed their patterns are, and I trust this one will be no different.
The fabric is still undecided: perhaps a Sézane-inspired motif with a touch of a (pink) color or a deep chocolate solid. What I do know is that I want some wool quantity in the blend, so the trousers can serve as a true transitional piece, carrying me effortlessly into winter.
6. Tie-waist blouse x puff sleeves (with modifications) - Puff&Pencil
Another pattern I own and made before. The Tie Waist Blouse was the first among the blouses I ever sewed. I wore it a few times, but the fabric choice wasn’t right: a thrifted curtain, far too heavy for the design. It photographed well, but wasn’t comfortable to wear. Still, I’ve always appreciated the silhouette, and I believe it could feel even more refined with a few subtle modifications. My plan is to transform the lower part into a peplum, a simple adjustment that I’ll document in a future post. But can we take a moment for those Puff Sleeves ? Just imagine the Easy Vest on top of it, amazing right ?
For this version, I’ll be using a fabric I found last year at a market in the Netherlands: a black cotton embroidered with delicate flowers. Introducing texture and motif into my minimalist wardrobe feels essential. It adds quiet interest, elevates the overall look, and creates the impression of effort, even when the styling is simple.
7. Crossover dress x cone sleeves - Puff&Pencil
I’ve been looking for a simple dress that flatters my shape, something easy to wear but with a thoughtful design. The Crossover pattern was the very first Puff&Pencil design I tested, and it remains one of their most adventure-beginner-friendly projects. My first version carried a few beginner mistakes, so I’ve always wanted to revisit it, this time with the Cone Sleeves. This autumn feels like the right moment.
The contrast straps in the sample are playful and it’s a detail I tried on my first make, but it isn’t a styling choice I’d repeat. The silhouette itself is striking enough, and I’d rather let the design stand out in a solid, uniform color. I don’t yet have the fabric in hand, but I’ve narrowed it down to a few tones that feel right for my wardrobe.
8. Trench Luna vest x Kite sleeves - Puff&Pencil
I won’t go too much into this version of the Luna vest with Kite sleeves just yet, it only needs its final buttons before it’s complete, and soon I’ll share everything there is to know. I’ve always wanted a good trench coat, and now I (almost) have it. The pattern is simple, yet it results in a true wardrobe staple, and I couldn’t be happier with the outcome. If you’re new here, consider subscribing to receive the full story once it’s ready, and if you’re already subscribed, thank you for being here. In either case, stay tuned for the next post.
9. Navy Luna vest x Kite sleeves - Puff&Pencil
I’m far from done with this pattern, I want to explore every possibility it holds. After the trench coat version, the next on my list is a wool navy coat, which feels like a true autumn staple for me. I’m envisioning it with details borrowed from a classic barn jacket: corduroy accents at the collar and cuffs, cut from the same fabric I’ll be using for my barrel-leg trousers. This dream coat will definitely be navy bleu, but I’m still on the search for a fabric warm enough to bring the idea to life.
Bonus
10. Project bag
Last, but certainly not least, my tenth project will be something purely for myself. I’ve been knitting more lately, and I want a way to keep my WIP’s safe. A project bag feels like the perfect solution, practical for storing all the tools I need, and easy to carry wherever I go.
I already have a pattern from Mipi The Label, though it’s no longer available on Etsy or her official website. The instructions aren’t the clearest, so it does require some extra thought, but it’s still entirely possible to make. Rosie Caldwell has a YouTube tutorial for her project bag, which I’ll likely use alongside the pattern. To keep it low-cost and sustainable, I’ll be using only leftover fabrics. The first version will feature embroidered floral motifs.
With this list, I’ll have more than enough to keep my hands busy this season. What about you, do you have any autumnal making plans of your own?
Thank you for reading.