I chose to make my first French jacket from Burda Style 02-2013 #107 which is a more contemporary version of the classic Chanel jacket. I especially love the neckline.
My fabric frayed very easily so it was perfect for making fringe. I had my choice of two completely different options color-wise, going either along or against the selvage. I choice the option you see on the left which has less yellow and green.
I cut 2″ strips, frayed each side going towards the center and leaving about a half inch unfrayed. I layered two of these strips to add fullness and then sewed braid down the center, stitching it down both sides.
I made the pockets a little smaller than drafted on the pattern, approximately 3/8″ less all around.
The couture experience is the closest thing to meditation that I have ever known. I can’t describe the feeling of peace and tranquility it provides. Becoming obsessed with something I previously resisted and avoided is a huge message from the Universe that I haven’t quite decoded yet. But really, do I need to know anything other than I love it? Ending up with a swoon-worthy couture garment is almost an afterthought.
Every bit of lining and trim adds additional weight to the jacket making it feel richer and heavier as you progress. The chain added at the end is the creme de la creme finishing touch.
Thank you Dorcas! You described this perfectly–swoon worthy! Dorcas blogs about her couture journey at Lone Star Couture.
