Vogue V1562 Lialia Double Breasted Coat

Vogue published V1562 quite some time ago.  Two years perhaps?  I loved it straight away for the lines, the mock back belt and the sleeve cuff treatment.  Here are a couple of pictures of the pattern envelope. 

Although I purchased the pattern immediately, I had set it aside while I searched for the right fabric.  I knew that I wanted to make it up in either a navy blue or a crimson wool, but couldn’t find what I was envisioning in my local fabric shops unfortunately.

As luck would have it, I had an opportunity to accompany my daughter on a trip to New York, and while our visit was only a few days, I brought a full sized suitcase in anticipation of fabric shopping. And what a great decision that was – talk about being spoiled for choice!

I bought some lovely navy blue wool gabardine from Mood Fabrics (among other things…a story for another day) It is a medium weight with a beautiful sheen which has sewn up wonderfully.

A change I made to this pattern is the omission of the breast pocket on the left hand side. I simply wasn’t keen enough or confident enough in my ability to produce a welt that would lay flat enough. So, when in doubt, leave it out. A decision that I don’t regret in the least.

One thing I do regret is the lining. I chose a plain, navy Bemberg. A classic lining for a classic coat. At the time, I was looking at the 20+ pattern pieces and thinking that simple would be best with the lining. In hindsight however, I do wish I had looked out an alternative colour or funky print.

With many patterns, I will make two or sometimes three versions if I like it enough. I won’t do that with this coat. The detail and style is unique enough that one in my wardrobe will do quite nicely.

Now, for some online shopping in search of navy or perhaps plum coloured gloves.

Bye for now,

Andrea