Burda #0002 Pattern Review

One of the things that's on my bucket list is to learn how to sketch, drape, and design my own outfits, but for now, when I'm inspired by a look that I see I try to find a pattern that's similar to the look that I want to achieve. I don't watch much tv, but when I do, I love to catch the latest episodes of Project Runway. It's one of my favorite shows. There are so many things you can pick up as far as tips as a seamstress/fashion designer.

I always pay attention to what the judges are wearing, and it was one episode that I was watching where I saw Elaine Welteroth sporting this fabulous floral printed parka jacket with matching pants. I searched high and low for this outfit, because it's a lot easier to just buy it than make it right? LOL. I was able to find the outfit here designed by Issey Miyake.

I was so inspired by the look that I just had to try to make something similar for myself. Since I'm not very skilled at drafting and designing I searched jacket/parka sewing patterns. I lucked up and found this vintage pattern on Etsy (there's tons of vintage patterns there, that you can modify and make your own).

I decided to sew View A. I initially thought that I was going to have to lengthen it because I wanted it to drape long like Elaine's, but after testing the pattern, it was the perfect length. I'm 5'4, and the jacket fell just above my knees. I cut a size 10. The jacket is very lightweight and it's not lined. Did I mention this pattern has pockets? Big oversized ones! If you're wanting to keep it light when you're out and about, your key fob, mini wallet, and your lipstick have plenty of room up in these pockets!

Overall, this pattern was pretty simple to make and I'd definitely recommend it if you're at an intermediate/advanced level as a seamstress. The trickiest part for me was the hood. I have a professional dress form, and when I'm puzzled on how a look is supposed to come together, I often place the garment on my dress form and it gives me a clearer picture of how the pieces are supposed to be sewn together. Pattern instructions can be confusing sometimes.

I couldn't find a floral printed fabric that I liked, so I chose this African printed printed fabric. This fabric was perfect for this pattern, but there are plenty of other prints to choose from like this, this, or this. I purchased the black and gold buttons from my local JoAnn's store. I decided to complete the look with a pair of faux leather leggings from my boutique that can be purchased here.

THE LOOK:

Fabric found here, leggings found here, boots (old/Aldo) similar boots here, sunglasses (old/Miu Miu) similar ones here