Summer

Fifty-five fabrics chosen for one season's demands: breathability, lightness and colours that belong in the sun. Floaty viscoses and airy cottons for sundresses, crisp poplins for shirts and shorts, cool jerseys for holiday basics — the fabrics you reach for when the forecast finally cooperates and the summer sewing list comes out.

Seasonal sense from the shop floor: natural and viscose fibres breathe where polyester traps, lighter colours earn their keep in July, and summer garments are simple shapes — which makes them fast, satisfying makes and the perfect way to sew a holiday wardrobe for less than one boutique dress.

Start in spring; every dressmaker who starts in June says the same thing next year.