Last year I had quite a few sewing makes, but I thought I would spotlight the garments from my “Sew Iconic” series in this blog post. I started with my great-grandmother, Hazel who was my inspiration to begin sewing as a child. A car-length loden coat was a perfect way to honor her and embody her style. I pulled from the world of hip-hop and made a faux fur jacket inspired by ‘Lil Kim. Lastly, I made my version of the classic LBD designed by Hubert de Givenchy for Audrey Hepburn.
Streetwear chic
Hazel’s coat
A Golden Era classic
Hazel’s coat
For the coat inspired by my great-grandmother, I used McCall’s pattern M8013. I had a beautiful, burn-out wool in my fabric stash that I purchased from Haberman Fabrics (a local Michigan shop) years ago. Ironically, this fabric was intended for a garment to be made for my mom, but she couldn’t figure out what she wanted so she gave it back to me. I bought the faux mink fabric, used for the detachable collar from http://www.moodfabrics.com.
This was the first time that I made a coat with a detachable collar. I love the elegant transformation it gives the design. Easily taking it from day to evening wear. Great grandma Hazel would have worn the faux fur collar in the day with gloves, a hat and of course, a spectacular brooch! I wish she were alive to see how wonderful it came out.
Streetwear chic
When I saw this luxurious, cobalt blue color, I immediately thought back to the pops of color that were so prevalent in the 90s. Specifically, in the hip hop culture. I knew that I wanted an oversized bomber jacket. To achieve this look, I used McCall’s pattern M7637 as the base.
This is a classic pattern that can be fashioned to achieve different looks for men and women. I’ve used this pattern four times and only one of the jackets that I’ve made resembles the original pattern!
I made alterations to the neckline, cuffs and bottom of the jacket by adding elastic instead of adding rib knit trim. A satin lining and dark metal zipper round out the jacket. I tend to go for earthtones so making a garment this color is a step outside the box for me. I love it though. It’s as comfy and warm as it looks!
A Golden era classic
Timeless, classic and chic. Just three words that describe the iconic style of Audrey Hepburn. This design was based off a Givenchy dress that was made from Italian silk and worn in the movie, Breakfast at Tiffany’s. Taken from the sewing pattern book, Famous Frocks by Sara Alm and Hannah McDevitt, I made my version of this iconic LBD.
There weren’t many differences between the pattern replication and the original dress. The original has a scoop neckline but the pattern I used has a cowl neckline. The front bodice is cut on a bias, giving it a soft, Grecian Goddess-like drape. I used a matte rayon crepe fabric which is a nice compliment to the subtle sheen of the feather trim. The pencil skirt bottom is slightly gathered at the waist. An invisible zipper and small walking slit finish off the back.
I grappled with what trim to use on the bottom of the dress. The original appears to have chain fringe. It could be looped or just the traditional fringe. I decided to go with ostrich feather trim. I wanted to give it a current twist. To be sure that it had the fullness that I wanted to achieve, I stitched five rows of trim.
I contemplated wearing a crystal belt with the dress but ended up making a sash out of the same fabric. To give it a nice bow tie, I made the sash 72 inches in length and 2 inches wide. I love the fashion styles from the past. I’ll definitely wear this dress for years to come!
I paired the dress with a vintage mohair jacket that I got from an antique show some years prior.
I plan on sewing more iconic looks inspired by movies and music as well as other garments for work, play, and events. It’s been said that crafting can reduce cortisol levels, a stress hormone, leading to reduced anxiety and promoting relaxation. Sewing definitely takes me away from the noise of the world. Just enough to keep my sanity. So, for 2025 and beyond, engage in creative activities to boost your mood and mental health. Whether it’s sewing, knitting, woodworking, painting, baking, etc… just start!