Since I am on a sewing binge this very rainy Saturday, I thought I would share my favorite coat pattern for the new season. I am a HUGE fan of "Project Runway" on Bravo. I have always loved fashion and fabric. Audrey Hepburn and Princess Grace are my inspirations. I love the classically tailored and romantic styles of design with a few contemporary lines thrown in. My favorite designers include Carolina Herrera, Michael Kors, Oscar de la Renta and Ralph Lauren, as well as newer designers such as Emma Fletcher of Lyell and Stella McCartney.
Since I have been many sizes over the years, sewing has been my saving grace. I have been able to tailor store bought garments as well as sew new ones. This has helped tremendously with maintaining a fashionable wardrobe over the years. I have a very simple wardrobe filled with essentials and a few modern pieces. I don't have time or money to be a closet hog, so I am careful about what I purchase or make. I like things clean and tailored with simple, feminine lines. I am a full-figured woman, so this works best for my body type.
Last year, Simplicity Patterns released a line based on the "Project Runway" show. They have a very modern contemporary feel to them. Dresses with leggings, cropped jackets and the like. I have made a few pieces for my 16 year old daughter, since they really work for her age group. I can adjust hemlines and necklines for a more modest result. I add a few of these modern pieces to her wardrobe which is filled with very classic simple pieces that will last many seasons.
The trench coat is an essential piece to any woman's wardrobe. It can be worn year round as a jacket or coat. The pattern above has several variations that I love. Since most well made trenches run between $120-$400 retail, I have looked in the re-sale and second hand stores for several weeks now and have found a few that would work with LOTS of help. In the end though I decided that making one from scratch to fit my unique body type works for my budget and my time. So I am now on the hunt for the perfect fabric. I will let you know when I find it.
Happy Sewing,
Mary Labels: My Crazy Life, The Sewing Basket
