1934 polo coat

February 21st, 2009 in reader's closet

Pattern_Nut, member

4 users recommend

My first time sewing this pattern: a wearable test, as my sewing teacher would say. On me the belt can be cinched more closely so the coat doesnt look so bathrobey. Im 52 and shortened the pattern about 7 inches so it wouldnt drag on the ground. But I now think that the coat should be as long as I can possibly make it without being overwhelmed. Those lapels and belt need to be balanced by length. Even the two muslins I made did not tell me that.

I should say something about the fabric. Its snuggly, like a warm blanket--excellent for Minnesota winters--but it is bulky, too. A more tightly-woven, lighter fabric would probably make the sillhouette a bit narrower and longer. Next time I sew this coat I will make the belt a bit narrower--better for my proportions.

I topstitched the lapels to resemble the pattern illustration.

Vintage pattern, McCall 7842, from 1934. I love the outsize lapels of mid-1930s jackets and coats.

My first time sewing this pattern: a "wearable test," as my sewing teacher would say. On me the belt can be cinched more closely so the coat doesn't look so "bathrobey." I'm 5'2" and shortened the pattern about 7 inches so it wouldn't drag on the ground. But I now think that the coat should be as long as I can possibly make it without being overwhelmed. Those lapels and belt need to be balanced by length. Even the two muslins I made did not tell me that.

Photo: Cynthia De Grand

Add Comment
Print

Vintage pattern McCall 7842, published 1934.

Pattern or design used: Vintage pattern, McCall 7842, published 1934

posted in: vintage, collar

Add Comment Print

Comments (2)

moushka writes: Stunning coat. Your sewing talents are terrific. I've enjoyed all your fabulous garments.
Sue Posted: 3:55 pm on March 9th

CHL writes: Your coat is very pretty. Just a comment on the practicality of length. I have a beautiful wool duster that is full length. I'm taller than you, and the coat is about 2 inches off the floor. Though I love the coat, I now only wear it to formal events once or twice a year (for many years the brides at my church used it to get into the church during inclement weather). But it wasn't good for normal wear because even with heels it really was too long. The hem stayed filthy and it would get caught in everything: car doors, metro escalators, etc. And, when I am walking in the snow it dragged along the surface. So maybe your inclination to shorten wasn't far off. Posted: 1:22 pm on February 26th

You must be logged in to post comments. Click here to login.