Sewing Inspiration: Coats

Technically, it's spring. The calendar says so, but here in Indiana we've been in the 30's for quite some time. It snowed yesterday. What is going on??

Because of this unseasonably cold weather, I have been dwelling a lot on coats lately. It probably has something to do with the repair I recently made to my winter coat. Last time I was at the library, I spotted the book Coats and Jackets from the Built by Wendy series. It was probably a mistake, because I don't NEED a new coat, but now after seeing all the different styles, I WANT one!

On top of that, I'm sure you've all seen the most recent pattern release from Sewaholic, the Robson trench coat. True story: I was reading Tim Gunn's book A Guide to Quality, Taste, and Style (which I reviewed here) and he went over a list of essential items for your wardrobe. One was a trench coat. I was mulling it over, and thinking that I didn't have a trench coat and it might be fun to sew one, if only I could find the right pattern. Within ten minutes, I got the email from Tasia about the new pattern. Destiny? Probably. But right now, sadly, I have a few too many other projects on my plate. I see that trench in my future for next spring.

My favorite part of Threads magazine is their pattern review section. A few months ago, they featured an amazing bomber jacket from Sewn Square One.

You can buy the pattern here. It's really unique and anyone who could conquer it should have reason to be pleased with themselves.

Finally, I've been obsessing a bit over this ponte blazer from Lauren Conrad's line at Kohl's.

Kohl's

It's too bad I don't work in an office, then maybe I could justify owning something like this. It would be perfect for my previous job, because it has three-quarter sleeves. Back when I worked, I kept this sad fleece jacket at my desk, and I wore holes in the elbows from having my arms up on the desk all. the. time. I did find a similar blazer pattern from StyleArc patterns, the Marni jacket.

Marni jacket

So there you have it, a sampling of what's been on my mind as I freeze to death in this weather. Did anyone make a coat this winter? I made AB one in order to get familiar with the process. It's not too bad, as long as you read the directions carefully and take your time. Has spring arrived yet anywhere in this world??