Top Stores with Fabric for Fashionistas: Creating A Unique Personal Wardrobe
Are you a fashion-forward individual passionate about fabrics that make a statement? Look no further! In this article, we unveil the top fabric stores to help you create a wardrobe that speaks volumes. Whether you’re a sewing enthusiast, a budding designer, or simply someone who appreciates high-quality textiles, these stores offer a wide range of options to suit your taste and style. From luxurious silks to premium cottons, you’ll find everything you need to realize your fashion dreams.
In our quest to find the best fabric stores for fashionistas, we explored the market to bring you the most reliable and highly recommended outlets. We understand that fabric shopping can be overwhelming, but fear not! Our curated list of stores removes the guesswork, ensuring you access beautiful, durable fabrics that elevate your creations to new heights.
So, prepare to embark on a fabric-filled adventure as we introduce you to the top fabric stores that will become your go-to destination for all your fashion needs. Get ready to be inspired to get into your happy sewing space because your dream wardrobe awaits!
Why fabric selection matters in creating a wardrobe
The fabric you choose for your clothing can make a huge difference in the outcome of your project. For example, a flowy silk fabric can create a romantic and elegant look, while a sturdy cotton blend is perfect for a more casual and durable garment. Choosing the right fabric can also impact the comfort and feel of your clothing and its durability and longevity.
When selecting fabrics for your wardrobe, it’s important to consider both their practical and aesthetic qualities. Consider the climate you live in, your style, and the purpose of the garment you create. The right fabric can enhance the design and fit of your clothing, taking it to the next level of quality and sophistication.
Popular types of fabrics used in fashion design
Fashion designers use various fabrics from various fabric stores to create their collections. From luxurious silks to comfortable cottons, there are many options to choose from. Here are some of the most popular types of fabrics used in fashion design:
Silk: Silk is a luxurious fabric that is soft, shiny, and lightweight. It’s perfect for creating elegant and sophisticated clothing that drapes beautifully. Silk is available in many different types, including chiffon, crepe, satin, and organza.
Cotton: Cotton is a versatile fabric that is breathable, comfortable, and easy to care for. It can be used for various garments, from t-shirts to dresses, and it’s available in many different weights and textures.
Wool: Wool is a warm and durable fabric that is perfect for creating cozy winter clothing. It’s available in many different types, including tweed, flannel, and cashmere.
Linen: Linen is a lightweight, breathable fabric perfect for summer clothing. It has a natural, textured look that gives clothing a relaxed and casual feel.
Polyester: Polyester is a synthetic fabric that is durable and easy to care for. It’s often used for athletic clothing and swimwear, as it’s resistant to water and sweat.
Top fabric stores for high-quality fabrics
Now that you know the types of available fabrics, it’s time to find the perfect store to buy them from. Here are some of the top fabric stores for fashionistas:
Mood Fabrics:
Mood Fabrics is a well-known fabric store that has been featured on the hit TV show Project Runway.
To say that you will become overwhelmed with the sheer volume of fabrics in the New York store is an understatement. It is certainly a fabric hoarder’s dream and has way more fabric than any of us could ever dream of. Come to this place with a definite plan. Do not, I repeat, do not walk in blind. The notions wall is to die for, and the volume of items you can find to accentuate any make is devastating.
Mood has a brilliant plan– online and two remarkable cross-country locations. They are located in New York City or Los Angeles, and again you can also shop online. I’ve been to both locations, and my preference is always the New York City location, but they both have top-notch fabrics. Maybe that’s why I’m been a Mood Fabric’s ambassador and affiliate. The fabric is hands down top quality.
They offer a wide range of fabrics, including designer fabrics from some of the biggest names in fashion.
Melanated Fabrics:
Located in Atlanta, GA, Melanated Fabrics is a great place to visit if you are in the A.T.L. This brick-and-mortar dream offers a variety of quality knits, wools, and other unique fabrics.
You might even bump into Mimi G or Brittany J. Jones while you are shopping. The buttery brown faux leather I purchased for McCalls 8149 was from Melanated Fabrics.
Everything you need to know before shopping at this store is here.
San Fransisco Stores with Fabric
Britex Fabrics:
Britex Fabric is located in San Francisco. During my recent trip to San Francisco, I had the pleasure of visiting Britex Fabrics and was thoroughly impressed by their vast selection of fabrics. Their inventory ranges from opulent silks to tough denims, catering to every project requirement and budget.
The staff was extremely knowledgeable and helpful in assisting me in finding the perfect fabric for my upcoming sewing project, and their expertise was greatly appreciated. The store was impeccably organized and easy to navigate, which made my shopping experience delightful. My Zadie jumpsuit by Paper Theory, pictured below, was constructed with luxury abstract printed linen from this fabric store.
I highly recommend Britex Fabrics to anyone in the San Francisco area who is looking for high-quality fabrics and exceptional customer service.
Joann Fabric and Craft Stores:
Joann Fabric and Craft Stores is a popular chain that offers a wide range of fabrics and sewing and crafting supplies. They have a large selection of cotton fabrics in many different prints and colors and specialty fabrics like leather and lace.
Fabric.com, now Amazon market
Fabric.com is one of the largest online fabric stores, with a huge selection of fabrics at competitive prices. They offer free shipping on orders over $49, and they have a wide range of fabrics to choose from, including cotton, silk, wool, and polyester.
Fashion Fabrics Club: Fashion Fabrics Club is another online store offering a huge selection of fabrics at great prices. They have a wide range of fabrics, including designer fabrics, and they offer free shipping on orders over $79.
Girl Charlee Fabrics: Best for Swimwear Fabrics
Chocked full of amazing designs and specialty notions. Girl Charlee is a one-stop shop for swimwear fabrics.
Smaller local Fabric Stores of interest
Phoenix, Arizona: Sas Fabrics
Maitland, FL: Sewing Studio Fabric Superstore, near Orlando, Florida
Oklahoma City, OK: I hunted down a few spots while I was in Oklahoma attending a funeral, yes, Oklahoma. You can find a few spots like The Stitching Post and others. There isn’t much fabric here for garment sewing, and it’s small and quaint at best.
Dallas, Texas:
Los Angeles: The Los Angeles Fashion District (The Garment District). One of my favorite fabric stores, Micheal Levine was like an anchor to this 100 block area.
New York City: The Garment center
International Fabric Stores
Athens, Greece: Ready to go on a real fabric hunt, then Athens is for you. From large superstores to nooks and crannies, where you feel completely clastrophobic digging through fabric. More on my Athens experience here.
Paris France: Paris. Need I say more. I return here almost every year for a full on fabric run. You will definitely need one or two extra suitcases and make arrangements to get the fabric back home.
Barcelona Spain: There is a serious collection of fabric
Accra, Ghana:
Online fabric stores for convenient shopping
If you don’t have access to a physical fabric store in your area, or if you simply prefer to shop online, there are many great options available. Shopping for fabric online can be a convenient and time-saving option, as you can browse and purchase fabrics from the comfort of your own home. Here are some of the top online fabric stores for fashionistas:
Fabricworm: Fabricworm is an online fabric store that specializes in organic and modern fabrics. They have a huge selection of fabrics in many different prints and colors, and they offer free shipping on orders over $50.
Hawthorne Threads: Hawthorne Threads is another online fabric store that offers a wide range of fabrics, including designer fabrics. They have a large selection of cotton fabrics in many different prints and colors, as well as specialty fabrics like knit and flannel.
Spoonflower: Spoonflower is a unique online fabric store that offers custom fabric printing services. You can upload your own designs and have them printed on a variety of fabrics, including cotton, silk, and polyester. They also have a large selection of designs created by independent artists.
Fabric shopping tips for fashionistas
Shopping for fabric can be overwhelming, but with a few tips and tricks, you can make the experience enjoyable and successful. Here are some fabric shopping tips for fashionistas:
Do your research: Before you start shopping for fabric, do some research on the types of fabrics that are available and their properties. This will help you make informed decisions when selecting fabrics for your projects.
Shop with a plan: Have a clear idea of what you’re looking for before you start shopping. This will help you stay focused and avoid getting overwhelmed by the many options available.
Ask for help: Don’t be afraid to ask for help from the staff at the fabric store. They can offer advice on fabric selection, as well as tips on sewing and garment construction.
Buy swatches: If you’re unsure about a fabric, buy a swatch before committing to a larger purchase. This will allow you to see and feel the fabric in person, and help you make a more informed decision.
Sustainable and eco-friendly fabric options
If you’re concerned about the environmental impact of the fabrics you use, there are many sustainable and eco-friendly options available. Here are some of the top sustainable and eco-friendly fabrics for fashionistas:
Organic cotton: Organic cotton is grown without the use of harmful pesticides and chemicals, making it a more sustainable and eco-friendly option than traditional cotton.
Bamboo: Bamboo is a fast-growing and sustainable plant that can be used to create a soft and durable fabric. It’s also naturally antibacterial and moisture-wicking, making it a great option for activewear and undergarments.
Hemp: Hemp is a durable and eco-friendly fabric that is made from the fibers of the hemp plant. This fabric may be difficult to find in stores. It requires very little water and pesticides to grow, making it a sustainable option for clothing production.
Custom fabric printing services for unique designs
If you’re looking for a truly unique fabric for your next project, consider using a custom fabric printing service. These services allow you to upload your own designs and have them printed on a variety of fabrics, creating a truly one-of-a-kind garment. Here are some of the top custom fabric printing services for fashionistas:
Spoonflower: Spoonflower is a popular custom fabric printing service that allows you to upload your own designs and have them printed on a variety of fabrics, including cotton, silk, and polyester.
Contrado: Contrado is another custom fabric printing service that offers a wide range of fabrics and printing options. They also offer a range of finishes, including waterproofing and flame retardant treatments.
Fabric on Demand: Fabric on Demand is a custom fabric printing service that offers a wide range of fabrics, including cotton, silk, and polyester. They also offer a range of finishes, including UV protection and wrinkle resistance.
Fabric care and maintenance tips
Once you’ve created your dream wardrobe, it’s important to take care of it to ensure it lasts as long as possible. Here are some fabric care and maintenance tips for fashionistas:
Read the care instructions: Always read the care instructions on your clothing before washing or dry cleaning. This will help you avoid damaging your clothes and ensure they last as long as possible.
Wash in cold water: Washing your clothes in cold water can help prevent shrinking and fading, and it’s also more environmentally friendly.
Hang dry: Avoid using the dryer whenever possible, as it can damage fabrics and cause them to shrink. Instead, hang your clothes to dry or lay them flat.
Store properly: Store your clothes in a cool, dry place to prevent mold and mildew growth. You can also use garment bags to protect your clothes from dust and sunlight.
Conclusion: Seek out quality fabric stores to build your dream wardrobe
Creating your own wardrobe can be a rewarding and fulfilling experience, and choosing the right fabrics can make all the difference. With the top fabric stores for fashionistas and tips and tricks, you can create a wardrobe that speaks volumes. From luxurious silks to sustainable cottons, the options are endless. So, start exploring and find the perfect fabrics for your next project. Your dream wardrobe awaits!