The "Chanel" jacket

[Juanita B]

Hi, am I missing something? I've been looking online and checking out blogs and other postings about this type of jacket. So far what I've seen looks great. But from what I am reading are people hand sewing these things? Is it the trims, the lining, the pockets, how it's fitted? What is it that makes it such a big deal? I'm thinking that you can have an ultra-couture garment that you've made yourself, without the hefty price tag. Please shed some light on this for me. Thanks!!! 

[Juanita B]

Oh...forgot to mention that I do love Chanel No 5. One of my favs....

[Faye Lewis]

I made a Chanel-like jacket several years ago.  For me the "big deal" about it was the learning process itself.  Learning about the history of Coco Chanel herself, learning and duplicating (as close as I could) her sewing techniques, and lastly, finally accomplishing the completion of a project that I had inspired to make for such a long time.  The finished project was like a dream come true.  I put a lot into the construction of the jacket: from the fittings, matching a plaid-like fabrics on the main body of the jacket the sleeves, and the pocket flaps all worked out for me - amazingly (surprisingly) well.; the quilting process was very interesting, it actually made the woven jacket feel just like a cardigan.  I can actually roll the jacket up and put it into a drawer for storage and it would come out without a wrinkle - rather than hanging it up. 

I will make another Chanel-like jacket.  Although I am very proud of my first one, there are things that I will do differently next time like - adding more quilting, and making my own trim (I used purchased trim on this jacket).  The most important thing about the entire process was that I used fabric that was gifted to me by my Mother.  Some she had stashed in her attic from who knows when - and it was enough to make a matching skirt as well.

Hope this helps, and hope that I didn't make this too lengthly.

[Alethia]

Faye, what a privilege to be able to make a Chanel jacket out of fabric that your mother owned. You have two awesome memories to cherish! I would love to see pictures of it!

[Faye Lewis]

Alethia here's a picture of my finished jacket.

[Alethia]

Faye, this is beautiful! I wanna say I remember when you did this one, not sure. Great job!

[Juanita B]

BEAUTIFUL!!!

[Juanita B]

Yes, I agree...lots of awesome memories for you...

[Juanita B]

thanks for the reply, lots of great info. not too long at all. The quilting may be an issue for me. I don't need a lot of bulk. I am a plus sized lady. I have a some great boucle (sp) that I stashed away for a jacket, maybe this will be the one. thanks again for the reply.

[Alethia]

Juanita,

Here's a little insight into what makes a Chanel jacket so famous and couture:

"The clothes of the House of Chanel featured quilted fabric and leather trimmings; the quilted construction reinforces the fabric, the design and the finish, producing a garment that maintains its form and function while being worn. The notable example of such haute couture techniques is the woolen Chanel Suit — a knee-length skirt and a cardigan-style jacket, trimmed and decorated with black embroidery and gold-coloured buttons...."

You can read the whole history of  Chanel HERE.

Mimi Goodwin, of www.mimigstyle.com just completed her first Chanel jacket. And, she'll tell you that it truly takes time to make it a true couture and classic jacket that lasts! 

Sure you can make  it by machine, but the delicacy of handsewing and attention to detail reserves the longevity of such a timeless piece. It is really a work of art. You can put many hours into this one style jacket.

If you ever get a chance to create one, then you would truly appreciate the meaning of Haute Couture.

I hope that tidbit helps!

[Juanita B]

thanks for the reply...i don't know if i have the patients to do it by hand. i do appreciate Haute Couture and I love it. I am working on my fitting and have gotten it to where i want it. i don't know if this is the project for me. i am a nut about the little details, but would have to think hard about this. I did order a pattern today by Vogue that is Chanel-like. I have to sleep on it. thanks for the info.

[Alethia]

Yes, Juanita, it is truly a piece that you would have to put your mind into...much success to you!

[Karen Orsua]

Thank you for the link on Coco Chanel. I have read a few things about her and saw a movie about her but still learned a couple of new things.

Your jacket is beautiful...nicely done