GIVEAWAY! Basic Black - 26 Edgy Essentials for the Modern Wardrobe

A few weeks ago I was contacted by Tuttle publishing to see if I wanted to review the new book by Sato Watanabe: Basic Black: 26 Edgy Essentials for the Modern Wardrobe.  Having grown up (in a sewing sense) with Japanese Pattern Books I was super keen to have a look at this latest offering (especially in English), so I said yes.

Sato Watanabe has also written: I am Cute Dresses and Stylish Skirts so is no stranger to putting together patterns which will appeal to a wide audience.

The 26 patterns in Basic Black, cover blouses, vests, jackets, skirts and dresses and there really is something in here for everyone, even if you don't wear black! 

The book isn't as cute and quirky as "I am Cute Dresses" and in talking about the 'Asymmetric Jumper Dress' Sato says "I like things that are just a bit different, but am not fond of anything that's too way-out" and that pretty much sums up the patterns in the book.

The subtle originality is paired very much with classic design and my particular favourites are the Tailored Jacket with Raw Edges, Polka dot Jacquard Dress and the Gathered Dress with Shawl Collar.

There are short but clear instructions and the book comes with the full pattern sheet at the back. Patterns are embedded so there is a little bit of 'locating' required before tracing but that's normal for this type of book.

I think you will all find something to like in this book which is releasing on the 8 July. 

For you lucky readers, I have one to give away! If you would like a copy, please leave a comment.  The giveaway is open to international readers as well and I will do a random number draw on 11 July 2014.