Edgy Jackets

I’m featuring two jackets today, since they were created as a two-part project, which were inspired by Linda Lee’s article ”Edgy Jackets” in Threads magazine #119, page 56.  Linda’s beautiful black and white houndstooth version with lime green lining is just stunning.  The layers of fabric are quilted together and the edges are left unfinished making for quick construction.

I created the pink jacket first from a loosely woven novelty suiting and a vintage china silk fabric.  I drafted the pattern using Pattern Master Boutique software and followed the instructions in the article to complete the jacket.  This jacket turned out to be a fun, casual jacket to wear.  I even left the printed selvages of the silk for all to see.

As much as I enjoyed making and wearing this jacket I felt that it was a little more deconstructed than I like.  So, for the blue tweed version, I covered some of the jacket’s raw edges with strips of navy ultrasuede, specifically along the waist seam and along the front and neck openings.  I left raw edges at the bottom and sleeve hems.  I had originally planned another ¾-length sleeve for this jacket but didn’t like the look once it was completed.  To solve this dilemma I cut the sleeve in two pieces, fringed both ends and sewed them back together, adding another raw-edged tier at the wrist.  The blue flower pin was created specifically to wear with this jacket.

I love wearing both of these jackets as they are so comfortable.  The soft tailoring involved in their construction makes them feel like sweaters rather than jackets.  I urge you to try Linda’s technique for yourself.