Fabric Stories — fabric stories

We rummaged in our stash to find a some silk jersey to make our Senorita Blouse samples - and came out with a couple of remnant pieces from Cloth House in Berwick Street, Soho. Alice remembers Cloth House opening many moons ago when she was a theatre design student and over the years it has developed into a treasure trove of eclectic textiles specialising in natural fabrics from around the world and are very keen on ethical sourcing and recycled packaging. She also recycled the owner, Justin's, double buggy for business partner Lilia + her brother when they were babies!  On their website...

Our Komodo Triangle Dress is made in laser-cut cotton from world famous Joel & Son Fabrics. This is where the Queen goes fabric shopping for many of her jewel-coloured outfits. She might need to get on one of her horses to get around this vast shop full of eye popping colours and textures. If Joel's hasn't got it, probably no-one has! They have a worldwide reputation, so you may find yourself browsing alongside some exotic princesses! It's all top dollar here but top quality too - their carrier bags are so deluxe you can almost use them handbag! There's some market stalls outside...

Alice's Helicopter Top + Trousers are made in some cheap and cheerful georgette from Fashion Enter. This innovative company has a factory producing garments for companies such as ASOS, M&S and Finery, a sampling studio for up-and-coming designers and a teaching academy for those wanting a career in the fashion industry. It is also where Alice taught pattern-cutting for a couple of years! Look at their website for details of their monthly fabric sales and online shopping.  Fashion Enter FC Fabric Studio, Unit 14, Crusader Estate, 167 Hermitage Road, N4 1LZ

When the ladies on the sales counter at John Smedley's outlet Mill Shop in Matlock, Derbyshire saw Alice carefully measuring up their end of line scarves they looked a bit puzzled... and quite surprised when she said she could squeeze a maxi dress out of a couple of them sewn together! And so the Iceberg Maxi Dress was born... John Smedley say they make the world's finest knitwear and we're not arguing with that. Apart from cutting up scarves their sweaters come in a great selection of styles and colours, last forever, wash beautifully and make a great compliment to your...

      Who doesn't like a bargain? A trip to Goldhawk road in London's Shepherds Bush is a great place to find one! This area is under threat from development - more boring flats - but let's hope it gets saved as it's a great for a rummage. Or favourite is Classic Textiles which is where the silk for our Whitechapel Pyjamas sample came from. This rabbit warren of a shop has friendly staff and a little bit of everything, including some famous designer ends of rolls and their own Liberty-esque cotton prints. They also have a good selection of...