Inspiration and Fabrics for Making the Mila Dungarees

If you're planning to make the Mila dungarees sewing pattern - or maybe you aren't sure and need to imagine it made up in different fabrics or on different body shapes - then today’s post is for you! We wanted to share with you some of the design inspiration we came across whilst developing this pattern, and also fun ideas for fabric, styling and embellishments to get your creative wheels turning.

When choosing your fabric, we suggest you pick a medium weight woven material with a small amount of stretch in it (not to be confused with stretch knit fabric, which probably won't work out well). Look out for stretch denim, stretch needlecord or stretch woven cotton with at least 2% lycra or spandex.

We've linked to a few fabrics below, but please note we haven't handled them all ourselves. We'd recommend ordering a sample if you're not sure about the fabric before buying.

CLASSIC DENIM

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Dungarees and denim go together like gin and tonic. Keep it cosy in Winter with boots and a turtleneck, go for everyday casual with a cute shirt or jersey top (stripes are always a winner), or team a coloured pair of dungarees with some cute Swedish clogs for Summer.

For fabrics, try a classic black stretch denim from Bloomsbury Square, gorgeous azure blue from the Sewcial Studio, or indigo, pink or turquoise stretch denim from Dragonfly Fabrics.

COLOURFUL NEEDLECORD

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The Mila dungarees would work really well with stretch needlecord, which often comes in a variety of beautiful colours. Mustard, pink, teal, burgundy, khaki... be brave and dress head to toe in your favourite colour.

We're tempted by these stretch needlecords in lovely colours from Bobbins n Buttons and Minerva Crafts.

GO JAZZY!

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While Mila has a flattering and grown-up cut, there is still something very nostalgic and fun about wearing dungarees. Embrace your playful side by sewing them up in a cute print - try polka dots, florals, graphic designs... If you feel like a stylish big-kid in these, our job is done.

We made one of the samples in this gorgeous floral stretch cotton from Fabric Godmother. This fireworks stretch cotton from Sew Over It could be stunning. Try a polka dot drill from the Sewcial Studio, or how about a cherry print from Fabrics Galore to really make a statement? I've got my eye on this amazing striped stretch denim from Minerva Crafts - reminds me of Osh Kosh kiddo dungarees!

EMBROIDERY

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We’ve been seeing lots of embroidered denim recently, which we loooove! The bib on the Mila dungarees is like a blank canvas screaming out for some decoration. Extra kudos if you have the time and skills to DIY!

What style are you thinking of making your Mila dungarees in? We're so excited to see them! Share your makes with us on Instagram @TillyButtons using the hashtag #SewingMila :)