This is a dressmaking guide which gives patterns and instructions for making ten basic wardrobe essentials, with variations. The author of this book contends that well-made basic styles will remain in fashion for years, and she includes patterns for a set of traditional garments to form the basis of your wardrobe; a traditional shirt; a collarless tunic; a T-shirt; a straight skirt; a full skirt; elastic-waisted trousers; tailored trousers; a jacket; a fitted waistcoat; and a big waistcoat or jacket. Each pattern includes photographs of fabric swatches, and instructions for numerous variations, allowing the creation of dozens of garments for each of the ten basic patterns. Clear and precise instructions and diagrams are given so that the book should be suitable even for the sewer with limited experience.