Spell, Stitch & Splinter

I made this for Halloween but just put the finishing touches on it recently.  I wanted to make a "royal"  medieval costume that had some Asian influences. I also used the color scheme of the Lannisters from Game of Thrones. It's sort of a interpretation of Cersei Lannister's red and gold dress. This fabric is sooo pretty The pattern is based on a Ghawazee coat, typically worn by tribal belly dancers. Since I do a bit of belly dancing myself, this coat does double duty as a Halloween costume and dance attire. It's the most expensive costume I've ever sewn, thanks to my boyfriend spoiling me with an entire bolt of beautiful red brocade fabric. Personally, I'm usually a very frugal shopper, buying fabric only when it's on sale. Unfortunately I never got around to adding the closures I love the neckline on this coat.  I used a black leather braided trim to outline the collar and a gold and black ribbon for the center front. ...

I've wavered between wanting these books and trying to hold off. My budget has been so strict this year that I haven't bought anything for sewing since Halloween. But now I have both books and I couldn't be happier! The Colette Sewing Handbook is a great resource for a beginner to intermediate seamstress like me. I've read through the whole book already and have begun planning a spring wardrobe made up mostly of Colette patterns. Gertie's New Book for Better Sewing is much more advanced, filled with couture techniques like hemming with horsehair and boning a bodice. I think I'll attempt some of these patterns after I've sewn through the Colette book first. I am so happy with my purchases. I especially love the sheer number of patterns that are included in the books. I think this will be a great start to my goal of sewing more non-costume clothing. It's also sort of a transition too, sewing vintage inspired clothing for everyday wear. ...