I have dreamed of the perfect leather jacket since I was a teenager, but being a bigger busted, hot human, I find wearing a real leather jacket or leatherette jackets uncomfortable. They always seem to be bulky, squeaky, sweaty or plain pricey.
Enter the perfect fabric for those of us who are temperature challenged, a viscose fabric with a leather look finish! I was so excited when I saw this fabric I almost hugged my supplier. I knew exactly what I wanted to make and I could hardly wait for it to arrive.
I spent the next three weeks searching for the right pattern and settled on the Lisette for Butterick B6169 because it had the perfect amount of detail in the front and zip area, but it wasn't going to be so complicated that I would mess it up, having not sewn a jacket for about six years!
I am an impatient sewer when it comes to clothes, and I am easily distracted when it comes to following a pattern. I usually end up taking shortcuts or getting frustrated. But if you are like me, I would highly recommend this pattern because I managed to stick it out right to the end and I am so happy that I did. Being a UK size 24, I usually find I have to modify patterns quite a lot; I have a big bust, a smaller waist, narrow shoulders and short arms. But I ended up taking the added room back out of this on the first fitting. I wanted it to be bigger so I could wear it over jumpers if I wanted too but still had it be flattering. With the seaming in this, I think it is about as flattering as it can be while still retaining that 'leather jacket look.
I also wanted to make it without a lining, so I ended up putting a facing on the revere and binding the inside seams. The only thing about that is it does love it a little messy around the pocket area on the inside, and If I were to do it again, I would line the full front panels, not just the facing. I wanted to leave it lining free because again I didn't want it to be too thick, or add a sticky polyester lining, that would undo the joy of the viscose being breathable.
As I knew that I would mostly be wearing it open I made sure to use a lining that I loved, I chose black cotton with little sketchy stars on from Dear Stella, via M is for Make.
I am totally in love with this jacket and have already worn it so much; it is super comfy and lightweight. I even managed to use these vintage popper studs that I had handed down from my Grandma. It is now home to my fave selection of enamel pins and is possibly my favourite thing I have made, except my wedding dress that is.
Is there a piece of clothing that you have always dreamed of making but never quite found the right combination of fabric or pattern? I would love to know.
Sammy xxx
