Simple Pleasures by Cynthia cynthia111 is an inspiring image almost daily. Her backyard is located in heaven, but she has reminded me that heaven is also located in my backyard.
A Rose by any other name...
I therefore surmise that heaven can be found anywhere I care to have a look for a simple pleasure.
I look in my closet. It’s mostly black, due to practical needs. I don’t fit into everything in there, and why did I buy that $500.00 Catherine Malandrino skirt? Right, I got it for $275.00. Then I see my Roses Coat. I take it out and put it on my Judy.
The Dream Coat
This is my Dream Coat that I dreamed of 15 years ago. I designed it from inspiration found in the clothes of the late 60′s from Janis Joplin to Jimi Hendrix to Sly Stone and on and on.
When I saw the fabric at a local jobbers, I instantly recognized it as my Dream Coat’s Fabric. It’s a low nap mid-weight velvet, black with pink and red roses. It’s romance with rock.
I made the pattern myself on the dining room table . I used a size 6 block. I didn’t want to cut into the roses with panel lines or darts, but I wanted a nice fit. So, I manipulated the front shoulder and bust darts into a French dart that starts at the waist, runs more or less under the arm and ends 3 cm. from the bust point.
I made sure the repeat print of the roses was not matched side to side or sleeve to sleeve. To be 60′s I need a random feel. I cut it full length to make most of the print.
It’s got a large Fly collar and a fake roll to the top button position. It has velvet loops, but I haven’t sewn the buttons on yet. (Been waiting years for the pleasure).
Fly Collar, Faux Roll
The back has a waist seam, and is split from the high hip to the hem. (in case you need to go horseback riding.) It’s lined in black kasha lining.
The trumpet at the bottom of the fitted sleeve is lined in a french cut silk velvet.
Silk Cut Velvet Lining
Amazing how much it opens.
The final touch was the three tucks on the crown of the sleeve.
Well, there it is, my Dream Coat.
I haven’t worn it yet, Why? I’m not sure. I have many coats that were never Dream Coats, but I like wearing them a lot.
So why do I not wear my Dream Coat?
I’m still figuring that one out. Maybe it’s because it’s what I think it is, a Dream Coat not a Reality Coat. One thing I know for sure is that when I take it out of the closet, I get a lot of joy and satisfaction just looking at it.
Rose Coat
I’ve been meaning to make a long, dramatic coat. Love the great big collar!!!
Thanks about the collar, it is such an easy collar to draft, or drape. I would be glad to give any help. I only wish you could style a shoot for this coat.
I would like to make one… it would look very well on a late 30′s, early 40′s style dress too I think. The coat reminds me of a 40′s femme fatale. She would probably have a long red lacquered cigarette holder to match the coat. >:D I certainly would, if I smoked.
That’s the way a Film Designer thinks!
See Resa, The simple pleasures bring the most beautiful things to everyone. You are a beautiful lady. You are the inspiration.
I’m so glad you read this post. You helped inspire it.
aww that is so sweet of you Resa. Thank you. I love that coat! I was looking to see if you had a facebook. That way I can keep up with you.
not on Facebook. Maybe soon. Right now I’m on a Movie of the Week and working 16 hour days until end of May, so won’t be setting anything new up until then.I will try to keep up a blog a week. Your photos are so easy to check out, and I will keep on checking.
Good deal- make sure to look me up when you get set up. Don’t work to hard and I look forward to reading more from you- hugs
That is a beautiful coat! You are very talented
Thank you! I’m at work. I will check your site out better on the weekend.
Hello, I have nominated you for the beautiful blogger award. For more on how to accept this award please go to http://www.boomiebol.wordpress.com. Thank you and keep up the great work.
Much Love
Boomie Bol