Monday, January 15, 2018

Wearing History's 1934 Long Coat


I recently purchased the 1934 coat pattern from Wearing History to make myself a long, warm, winter coat. It only comes in one size. Fortunately, it was the right one for me.



I am allergic to wool, but located some polyester faux Melton at Vogue Fabrics. I chose faux fur for the collar and flannel back satin for the lining. After cutting out the pattern pieces, I did my usual pattern alterations- FBA, lengthened the back waist, and shortened the hem length by 3" .


The directions were brief but accurate, and the diagrams exceeded any I have seen in a Big 4 pattern in both quality and information. The pieces went together really easily. Everything lined up beautifully, and it fit me perfectly without additional alterations.

  


 I dislike working with fur because of the mess it makes, but I really wanted a fur collar.


The faux Melton was so thick I skipped the bound buttonhole and let my sewing machine make one for me, then made a covered button of black velveteen.


I personalized the pattern by making a few changes:

-Pockets. I lined them, and instead of attaching them as patch pockets, I inserted them into the seams on either side. They fit perfectly and enhance the sleek lines of the coat.



-Inner pocket. I added an inner pocket on the lining for my cell phone.


-I skipped the cuffs.

-I pinned very carefully and inserted the lining by machine instead of by hand.

I tested my new coat on Christmas Eve and on subsequent sub zero degree days. It is very warm, and I feel elegant wearing it. It is incredibly comfortable. This pattern gets a two thumbs up- I highly recommend it. I am hoping to make a double breasted, belted rain/trench coat from this pattern in the Spring.