Loopy Modiste`s Atelier: Winter Capes

Hello everyone!

I needed a winter cape as modern coats won´t fit over a bustle nor big skirts. So I made three capes! One needs a variety don´t you think? ;)

First one is 1890´s cape made in boucle wool fabric. I don´t know if you can see it but the shine is gold. I love gold! Large black/gold bows are made from velvet fabric. The inspiration for the bows was from a fashion plate from 1890´s. Cape closes with buttons and loops and is fully interfaced with fleece for warmth. The pattern is self drafted but inspired by one in a book Making Victorian costumes for Women by Heather Audin.

Side view of the cape.

Detail of the bows and neckline.

Second one is Talma made in beige wool and embellished with gold tassels. Yeah, gold again... The pattern is from Truly Victorian (Talma Wrap). It´s perfect for 1870´s and 1880´s as it fits over a bustle. It fastens in front with buttons and it has a waist tape to make it snug over the back. This Talma is also interfaced with fleece for warmth and lined with viscose satin lining.

Side and back view of Talma.

Button closures.

Detail of the back and tassel trim.

And the third cape is Evening Cape made in two cohesive off-white wool fabrics and embellished with white guipure lace and crystals and sequins. All crystals and sequins are hand sewn. The cape is flat-lined with viscose-satin lining. No fleece for this one. The pattern is from Lynn McMasters (19th Century Evening Cape) and fits for years 1885-1895. I am happy with the outcome but I have to say the pattern needs adjusting. Sleeve caps were supposed to be gathered into armhole to form a small puff on top but no gathering was needed as the sleeves fitted perfectly. I would have liked the small puff. Well, next time then...