Spring is coming
Lighter brighter warmer days are coming…soon. I don’t know about you, but I’m feeling the heaviness of these times. We’re all exhausted. It’s been a long 2 years and frustration is running high.
From protests to doping scandals to snowstorms, I feel like pulling the covers over my head. Wake me up when it’s all over!
Feeling lighter
What I’d really like to feel is lighter. Part of it is changing on the inside, feeling more hopeful, uplifted, and rejuvenated.
The other part is being able to go out into the community unencumbered. By that I mean, not only not having to mask, social distance, and show passports and ID, but also free from being judged if I do still want to do these things to feel safe.
And, the final piece is not having to put on heavy winter boots, coats, hats, and mitts to venture outside.
Spring/Summer wardrobe
Probably the easiest of these things to do is lighten up our wardrobe. That comes naturally as the weather warms up and the snow melts.
So, I’m looking forward to bringing new bamboo designs to life. Capsule pieces that mix and match well together and easily integrate into your current wardrobe.
Drawstring pant
First, there’s the drawstring pant. This is the perfect lounge to work style pant for the Spring/Summer. It’s a lightweight bamboo micro stripe jersey. The drawstring waist has a bit of elastic in the back for a comfortable fit, making it easy to pull them on and off.
I changed the pocket from a side seam pocket to a slant pocket. It adds less bulk at the hips and makes it easier to slide your hands in, or carry things. I also made the legs narrower (on the right) than the original sample (on the left). They’re still a wider leg but a width that looks good on long and petite legs alike. I’ll be doing them in 2 colours and 2 lengths.

Light micro stripe on the left. Dark on the right.
Tell me in the comments which colour you like, the light micro stripe or the dark?
Rib knit t-shirt
Next is the bamboo rib knit t-shirt with a relaxed fit and not too long length. it’s designed for comfort and versatility. Wear it with everything.

Bamboo Rib Knit T in Silky Blue
Bolero cardi
The third piece is the bolero cardi. It’s inspired by an old Club Monaco sweater I’ve had for many many years. It’s so old, it’s starting to disintegrate. I’ve worn it over everything from dresses and skirts, to dress pants, jeans, and shorts. Whenever I travelled, I threw it in my bag.
So, I thought why don’t I design something similar to replace my old hole-y one. The bolero is light weight and small enough to take with you wherever you go. It will fit in most handbags depending on how big or small a purse you carry. It’s a great layering piece for an air conditioned office, a cool evening stroll, or as part of your travel wardrobe.

Bolero Cardi overtop the Carolyn Dress
In capsule wardrobe style, all three pieces work well together, or on their own with whatever you already have hanging in your closet.
Pre-order coming
I hope this gives you something to look forward to when Spring finally arrives. These designs should go into production at The Bobbins Production Studio right here in Ottawa in April/May. I’ll offer them for pre-order as the time gets closer and of course, as loyal subscribers, you’ll get first dibs. That way you’re guaranteed to get your choice of colour and size.
In the meantime while you’re waiting for lighter brighter warmer days, you can shop the “Spring is Coming” styles already in stock:
Wishing you a Happy Family Day!
Until next time,
~ Colleen

I’m a recovering Chartered Accountant and Breast Cancer Champion turned Fashion Designer. My COKANNA Canadian-made bamboo clothing is all about comfort and style. Giving back to the community is important to me so I support Rethink Breast Cancer‘s metastatic breast cancer education, support, and advocacy work.
The narrower leg and slash pocket look much more flattering than the original that we saw. Glad you made the change. Looking great Colleen
Hi Lynda, Yes, I agree. I think the changes will be more appealing for women of all heights, shapes, and sizes.
I like both colours for the pants but will likely buy the light micro stripe for the summer and wear the dark one at home in the winter… or evenings in the summer. Love that cardigan! Can’t wait for these designs to come out. Thanks Colleen.
Diane, That’s my thinking as well. The light micro strip for the summer and the dark for all year round.
If possible, a closeup of the microstripe pattern would be really useful!
Thanks for your request, Nancy! I will post a closeup of the micro stripe pattern.