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Los Olivos, California, United States
You can reach me at fool4fabric (at) gmail (dot) com

Sunday, August 3, 2014

OOOOH, CLAUDE!

I'm back...and without the boot! My foot has healed nicely, I am walking again
(although only 3 times a week, so far), and am wearing pants again. Talk about comfort zone...

 After my spurt of sewing skirts, I started a project which I knew would be longer and more detailed than usual. I have been collecting out-of-print Claude Montana patterns from Vogue (I made one here last April); I love most of his designs and find the superior styling worth the  problems of dealing with the bigger shoulder. Oh, how I wish Vogue would reissue some of them!


 My favorite one is this, Vogue 2974.

I was looking for something to make with this luscious quilted fabric from
Marcy Tilton...

and my friend Shams suggested I dig into my Montana treasures. So I did! It was perfect to showcase both sides of this wonderful fabric. It was probably one of the most detailed patterns I've ever used, even though it looks fairly simple.
Lots of pieces, lots of hand work, etc. But I think the two and a half weeks of work was worth it...


I lined it with a gray bemberg and found some perfect buttons from my button collection.


There are zippers in the sleeves and in the side seams (!) and two double-welt pockets.



I'm very happy with it, and am trying to decide if it will go to Scandinavia with
me at the end of the month.

Yes, we are going on another trip, to Sweden, Norway and Denmark. And that
means, PUTTING TOGETHER A TRAVEL WARDROBE! Which is one of my favorite parts of travel.

What I do first is identify a key piece (Jacket, etc.) and then go play in my
closet and pull out everything I might consider.

As you can see, the color palette will be black, gray and red. My new jacket is roomy enough to wear sweaters under, and even my red travel vest.


Since there are so many pockets in the vest, I chose not to add any additional ones to the new jacket. I also found some red London Fly boots on eBay last week, and they will accommodate my new orthotics and are very comfortable to walk in, so they are going, too.

We leave on August 29, so that leaves me 3 ½ weeks to put together my wardrobe and fill in any "holes". You'll be hearing more about it!

 TTYL...
Posted by at 11:51 AM
Labels: , , , , , , ,

79 comments:

  1. AngelaAugust 3, 2014 at 12:39 PM

    The jacket looks perfect to take, and also those red boots. I enjoyed seeing Carolyn's scandinavian travel wardrobe (http://handmadebycarolyn.blogspot.com/2014/06/a-travel-wardrobe-scandinavia.html) and now I'm looking forward to seeing yours!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. MargyAugust 6, 2014 at 8:27 PM

      Yes, I enjoyed Carolyn's travel wardrobe and made notes! Thanks, Angela!

      Delete
  2. TomasaAugust 3, 2014 at 12:49 PM

    Yes, take it with you….it's fabulous!

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    Replies
    1. MargyAugust 6, 2014 at 8:27 PM

      Thank you, Tomasa...I haven't decided yet!

      Delete
  3. Carol in DenverAugust 3, 2014 at 1:10 PM

    Impeccable confluence of taste, pattern, fabric, workmanship. Well done!

    ReplyDelete
  4. Sue @ A Colourful CanvasAugust 3, 2014 at 1:41 PM

    Ooooh, my kind of project! It's funny, as I've gotten older, I've come more and more to enjoy the 'being' of sewing. Right from the initial choosing of the pattern {I too love those eighties Vogue Designer patterns!}, to fabric, and notions. And then, the meditative {mostly...there's usually something that trips me up and breaks the spell} process of sewing. Your jacket is a beauty!! I think it deserves a trip overseas, as do you...you've had a challenging time with the cast and all! And hooray for being back in your comfort zone...you know, it wouldn't have surprised me to see you modelling designer pants with a side closure {like male stripper pants, but not, LOL} that would accommodate your cast.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. MargyAugust 6, 2014 at 8:29 PM

      Hmmm...stripper pants, what a concept! I agree with you, I enjoy the meditative part of sewing more.... Thanks, Sue!

      Delete
  5. shamsAugust 3, 2014 at 2:01 PM

    What a beautiful outcome, Margy! That coat is so lovely, so dramatic, and so YOU! Whether it goes to Scandinavia or not, your wardrobe is going to be wonderful. I'm so glad you are almost back to full strength!

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  6. VickiAugust 3, 2014 at 3:15 PM

    Fabulous coat! And lucky you - off again :)

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  7. Linda TAugust 3, 2014 at 3:25 PM

    Yes, I'd say that jacket was worth every minute, hour, day you put into it. Just beautiful!

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  8. NancyDaQAugust 3, 2014 at 4:24 PM

    What a beautiful jacket! A perfect choice for that fabric, and such lovely work too.

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  9. sewingkmAugust 3, 2014 at 4:48 PM

    Fabulous fabric, pattern choice and execution- so you!

    Karen

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  10. Susan BAugust 3, 2014 at 4:54 PM

    That's a stunner of a jacket! I love the drama of the collar and the surprise zippers.

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    Replies
    1. MargyAugust 6, 2014 at 8:31 PM

      Thanks, une femme...I love the drama, too!

      Delete
  11. AndreaAugust 3, 2014 at 5:39 PM

    So beautiful! Perfect pairing of fabric and pattern. Glad to hear your foot is healed. Have fun on your adventure!

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  12. LPCAugust 3, 2014 at 6:03 PM

    Wow, amazing! BTW, my stepfather is Swedish, so I've been a few times. Do you have family there? Have you ever been out to the Archipelago? Do you love Stockholm? :) Also, I plan to visit my mom at some point in September, so if I drive down by myself, I'm going to ping you for a little visit!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. MargyAugust 6, 2014 at 8:34 PM

      Thanks, Lisa...no Swedish ties, and this is my first visit to Sweden, although I've been to Denmark and Norway many years ago. I would love to see you if you come down...we'll be back the 16th of September...

      Delete
  13. 365 DressesAugust 3, 2014 at 6:10 PM

    Just gorgeous! Awesome, as a matter of fact!

    ReplyDelete
  14. DixieAugust 3, 2014 at 6:22 PM

    Ok, now I want that Montana pattern! Your jacket is really nice. I love the details, and your great fabric choice makes it even more interesting. It will be perfect for your trip.
    What fun, to pull together a travel wardrobe. And you always do it so well. Have fun with this!

    ReplyDelete
  15. JudieAugust 3, 2014 at 7:09 PM

    Stunning jacket! Absolutely perfect pairing of pattern and fabric. Look forward to seeing any new travel pieces you create.

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  16. dorothy scalesAugust 3, 2014 at 7:55 PM

    that jacket is amazing! once again I must say that I love your style and cant wait to see what you come up with next. thanks for sharing

    ReplyDelete
  17. The Smuggler's DaughterAugust 3, 2014 at 8:00 PM

    So glad to hear that you are off the boot! Wonderful jacket, great style and workmanship. It will be great to wear - in Scandinavia or elsewhere. It will be great to see what else you do to prep for your trip. Wonderful!

    ReplyDelete
  18. Carolyn (Diary of a Sewing Fanatic)August 3, 2014 at 9:57 PM

    Glad to hear that your foot is doing better and that the boot is gone! The wardrobe planning for the trip to Scandavian sounds wonderful. I'm sure there are some pretty amazing garments to come!

    ReplyDelete
  19. RuthAugust 3, 2014 at 11:40 PM

    You're right, the jacket was worth the work and everyone else is right - take it with you!

    ReplyDelete
  20. JoAugust 4, 2014 at 2:25 AM

    Love that Claude Montana! Your jacket is spectacular! Have a fabulous trip!

    ReplyDelete
  21. carolinascallinAugust 4, 2014 at 3:31 AM

    Fabulous jacket! Love the fabric, too. There are such beautiful designs from Vogue's Designer collection of years past...I'm always intrigued by the 80s stuff, but reluctant to tackle the often huge shoulders. Did you have to make many adjustments to the shoulders or did you just embrace the 80s?

    Thanks also for another neat shoe company! How have I missed Fly London before?!

    Have fun putting your wardrobe together for your trip. What a nice reward for being out of your cast!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. MargyAugust 6, 2014 at 8:38 PM

      Thanks, CC...I didn't have to do anything to the shoulders on this one...I wanted it roomy so it would go over sweaters and such. But other 80's patterns can be a problem....

      Delete
  22. UnknownAugust 4, 2014 at 5:51 AM

    Yes take it with you...perfect coat!!!

    ReplyDelete
  23. JanetAugust 4, 2014 at 6:42 AM

    You and Marcy Tilton fabrics are made for each other. Love the coat! Look forward to seeing more makes.

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    Replies
    1. MargyAugust 6, 2014 at 8:38 PM

      Thanks, Janet...I sure love Marcy's fabrics

      Delete
  24. LynnAugust 4, 2014 at 6:47 AM

    I love your travel wardrobes and will eagerly await your latest black, red, gray stylish combinations.

    ReplyDelete
  25. Gayle OrtizAugust 4, 2014 at 8:24 AM

    S-T-U-N-N-I-N-G! I bet you wear this jacket often and for many years. I want one!

    ReplyDelete
  26. Claire R.August 4, 2014 at 8:56 AM

    Ahhhhhh a travel wardrobe that does not include the dreaded boot! I adore travel wardrobes! The Montana jacket is smashing I must say! You look mahvelous, darling!

    ReplyDelete
  27. MelanieAugust 4, 2014 at 10:42 AM

    Incredible coat. It amazes how things like this can be made at home with skill, patience, and fantastic fabric. And an ooh-la-la pattern.
    Oh, yes, I love that red vest and those red booties which are such a great find.
    And another trip? Yesss!

    ReplyDelete
  28. AnonymousAugust 4, 2014 at 10:42 AM

    Hey Margy, I'm here in Sweden and would be happy to meet up! Send me a PM on Stitcher's Guild if you like. And what a fantastic jacket!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. MargyAugust 6, 2014 at 8:41 PM

      Thanks, Elizabeth...we're with a group, so I don't know that I'll have any "free" time...

      Delete
  29. MarcyFAugust 4, 2014 at 2:31 PM

    This is so beautiful. I think Claude Montana must have designed this pattern just for you! You wear those gorgeous statement collars so well. And I'm so pleased to hear the healing process has been going so well for you. I am really looking forward to updates as you develop and hone your travel wardrobe!

    ReplyDelete
  30. Terri KAugust 4, 2014 at 6:16 PM

    This is a great looking and functional jacket. I'm loving the oversized fit and thinking it will be great for layering in that regard. Have a wonderful trip !

    ReplyDelete
  31. MargaretAugust 4, 2014 at 9:09 PM

    Yippee! I am pleased your foot has healed but pleased too that you are doing another trip = travel wardrobe:-) I am currently planning my retirement trip to the UK and want to sew everything I take so am inspired by you. Details please ;-)

    ReplyDelete
  32. JillybejoyfulAugust 4, 2014 at 9:29 PM

    That COLLAR!!! MMmmm....mmmmmmyummy! Fabulous fabric, buttons, perfect marriage of everything!

    And how nice it must feel to be without the boot - I have a friend who smashed his foot up in an accident and just got out of the boot himself - he could hardly wait,so I've been feeling your readiness as well :)

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. MargyAugust 6, 2014 at 8:43 PM

      Thanks, Jillian...freedom from the boot is fabulous!

      Delete
  33. Rhonda BussAugust 5, 2014 at 7:16 AM

    How lovely Margy. I think Claude is somewhere smiling :)
    I've been dealing with a broken toe most of the summer. I'm just so grateful that it is summer and I can wear sandals. But it will be so nice to be back in my shoes. So happy your healing went well.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. MargyAugust 6, 2014 at 8:43 PM

      Thanks, Rhonda...sorry about your toe...our feet are IMPORTANT!

      Delete
  34. AnnabellouiseAugust 5, 2014 at 8:14 AM

    Gorgeous coat. I also love Claude Montana and I have a beautiful pattern somewhere in my stash. Maybe now I'll make it.

    ReplyDelete
  35. JuneAugust 6, 2014 at 12:18 PM

    So glad that you are healing well!

    I have an unrelated question, if I may ask - I'm looking to purchase a pair of sunglasses. I want something big and bold and fabulous. Who knows more about amazing eyewear than you!? Do you recommend any particular brand or source? Thanks in advance for considering my question.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. MargyAugust 6, 2014 at 8:49 PM

      Thanks, June...I have ordered online from Eyebobs, GoOptic, Glasses.com...good luck!

      Delete
    2. JuneAugust 7, 2014 at 12:01 PM

      Thank you, Margy! I will check them out!

      Delete
  36. The Style CroneAugust 6, 2014 at 2:41 PM

    Happy to hear that you're healing and getting ready for another adventure. Gorgeous jacket! And I love the red boots.

    ReplyDelete
  37. a little sewingAugust 9, 2014 at 5:42 AM

    Margy this jacket is just incredible. You have a great eye for selecting the right pattern & the right fabric for a project!!
    (glad you are healing)

    ReplyDelete
  38. FiftyfabulousAugust 9, 2014 at 10:21 PM

    What a fabulous talent to sew this, and a truly beautiful jacket. It might be out of print but it's a timeless style and classic piece of art! Very nice jacket indeed, and great travel item!
    FF

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  39. MaryAugust 10, 2014 at 6:36 AM

    Love this jacket on you and I look forward to seeing your travel wardrobe. Always a pleasure to look through your blog!!

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  40. Linda LAugust 10, 2014 at 1:21 PM

    Very nice jacket!! Glad your on the mend.

    ReplyDelete
  41. Tamera BeardsleyAugust 10, 2014 at 8:33 PM

    Planning my wardrobe … also one of my very favorite parts of travel!

    I also love Claude Montana … one of my favorites during the years our family owned our fabric store!

    Can't wait to hear all about your travel wardrobe and your newest adventure my dear!

    ReplyDelete
  42. Fabric CarolinaAugust 12, 2014 at 7:28 AM

    Love the fabric., Nice one. check more collection from my store .

    Beacon Hill Fabric

    ReplyDelete

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