There’s not a lot that’s fun about a global pandemic. It’s been scary, isolating and unpredictable… and that’s for those of us who are lucky enough to be healthy, securely housed, and still mostly employed.
However…
There has been so much interesting innovation from creative people on the internet that has been joyful to experience. These are strange times, but seeing people support each other and still see the beauty in life is wonderful.
Recently American Duchess released a gorgeous 1910’s cape pattern for free as a way to provide distraction during this time. It’s a lovely wrap front semi-structured cape that’s reasonably simple and looks quite stylish. I’ve loved seeing all the different versions on the #ADCapeCult Instagram tag, and knew I had to make one of my own.
Because of my particular body shape *coughboobscough* I knew I would have to make some alterations to the wrap at the front, and I’m so glad I did! The back of the cape is completely unchanged from the pattern, but the front is somewhat different. Larger, angled differently, and with additional darts to provide extra curve. But once I was happy with my alterations, I gladly moved onto my real fabric.
I chose a wool blend with a chequered pattern and a matching blue cotton sateen for a subtly shiny lining. I spent ages in the fabric shop when it was still ok to do that matching fabric to lining. I love how the lining colour is featured in all the versions of capes I’ve seen. I’m so glad I finally settled on this combination, I think it looks lovely!
I loved this project. It broke through my sewing project paralysis and let me have fun wiht my sewing machine! Capes are fantastic as is, but the #ADCapeCult has just been fabulous.
I am very glad to join the American Duchess Cape Cult!
I’m late to the party, but thinking of making this. I’ve seen so many fitting disasters of this (even amongst the experts), so I was happy to happen upon this blog post. You did a fabulous job with the fit!