I designed and created this ensemble for a friend’s Springtime Garden Party. I knew it would be a wonderful party with wonderful friends so I thought the invitation deserved a little extra effort on my part. So I got out my sketchbook and got to work.

I grew up on the water so I’ve always been inspired by all things nautical. I started with the short sleeve jacket constructed of medium weight denim as it was still a brisk time of year. The embellishment work is inspired by vintage naval/sailor uniforms and constructed of cotton grosgrain ribbon. I added 28 metal framed pearl buttons I purchased in bulk from a junk store here in NYC. The jacket in lined in self fabric.

As is was a garden party I knew I wanted a floral in there somewhere while still staying masculine and I had just the thing in my fabric collection. The shirt is made from a liberty print floral fabric I bought years ago in Paris meant for my senior collection in school but never made it in. I’d been holding on to it all this time for two reasons: #1 I bought it with my mom on a very special trip and #2 I’m a fabric hoarder and I’m not ashamed to admit it! I draped the pattern on my form and custom fit it to my measurements. I used buttons I inherited from my granmother and topped it off with a small, clean Peter Pan collar. The sleeve cuffs and button placket are topstitched with thicker thread for a classic men’s shirt look.

As a bit of a self proclaimed Dandy I have an affinity for bowties so of course the look had to have one. I always try to incorporate some sort of versatility in my creations so I constructed the tie of swiss dot on one side and the floral shirt fabric on the other for a reversible feature.

The ensemble is topped off with a fun fringe tote I created again from supplies I had in my collection. It is constructed of printed cotton fabric fully lined with a zipper closure. The fringe is the same color as the buttons on the shirt so I thought it went together wonderfully.

I paired these pieces with a crisp pair of khaki’s and a pair of oxfords for what I thought was well rounded, handsome look.

Threads Recommended Products

Threads receives a commission for items purchased through links on this site, including Amazon Associates and other affiliate advertising programs.

John James long darners

Extralong, sharp needles with elongated, large eyes, these are best for mending with thick threads. This needle manufacturer has been around since the 1840s.

Buy at Amazon

Style Arc, Hendrix Coat

The Hendrix coat sewing pattern from Style Arc is an unlined, panelled design with long two-piece sleeves, a button or snap front, and optional top-stitching. It features binding along the neck, hem, and sleeves, along with angled patch pockets and dropped shoulders. Recommended fabrics include wool, linen, faux fur, or velvet, with fabric estimates and trim details provided for sizes 4-30.

Buy at Amazon

Vogue 1642

Pattern A has pleated patch pockets with flaps. Pattern B has side seam zippers. This Vogue sewing pattern kit was designed and printed in the United States and comes with sewing templates, instructions, fabric recommendations, pattern pieces, and sizing guides for (2) shirts and (1) pair of pants. Women's clothing patterns can be made to fit sizes 4, 6, 8, 10, 12, and 14.

Buy at Amazon

Ensemble Front

Side Detail

Shirt and Bowtie

Bowtie Detail

Tote