New Look 1: Exploring an Iconic Design Introduction
Featured on the January 18th Episode of Sewing Time Live on the DesignerJoiMahon FB Page
You’re invited to join Joi on a dream sewing journey as she revisits an iconic fashion design. This journey begins with patterning a modern version inspired by Dior Design. Moving on, Joi will walk you through what is needed to achieve a couture-perfect fit complete with pattern fittings, adjustments, and application of fitting techniques. Fabric selection provides many options to customize our designs along with lessons on what constitutes a quality fabric and the best selection. Sewing our replica is the end goal and Joi will share all the techniques you will need to complete your own personal design. Interact with Joi during this adventure and learn how to apply these techniques to your own sewing and fitting of any garment with rewarding results.
The iconic Dior Bar Jacket represents a time of transition from war time with limited resources to a more prosperous and abundant time, which is reflected in the design. The jacket features excess fabric yardage and a beautiful silhouette flattering any figure.
For years I have pondered the idea or even dream of making a replica, but struggled with allocating time to the project because I am always creating for other people. After wrapping up my last book, Elevate Your Sewing, I realized I have written on many of the techniques that I would use to create my version of the “New Look.” Additionally, I had already started planning videos and other resources that I would use to teach the techniques featured in the book. Then one day, looking up at the photo of this design taped to my desk, I decided this is the year!
Why the Dior bar jacket? This 1947 ensemble stands out to me for many reasons. Throughout my sewing career I have had the opportunity to create all sorts of designs from couture bridal gowns and suits to pants and swimwear. Some of these designs have been elaborately researched historical garment recreations intended to replicate the time, technique, and materials as close as possible, while others were simply inspired by notable designs throughout the ages. My appreciation of historical clothing and textiles began with those studies in college. Visiting museum exhibits and learning to research first source materials for accurate information.
So here we are beginning the journey. I have a plan with inspirational photos, a custom workbook, measurement charts, and a detailed spreadsheet of the sewing layout and techniques I anticipate using in the process. I can hardly wait. I plan to savor this journey enjoying small bites of the project each week and share it along the way. I hope you will apply something you learn to your own sewing. I think it will be worth the journey, and the results will be a treasured design to enjoy for years to come. Of course, I am planning a memorable photo shoot too.
Let’s take this journey together. While you may not plan to make an exact replica, you can fine-tune your skills and apply the techniques to your own custom sewing. Join me each Thursday at 1pm CST on my DesignerJoiMahon FB page during the Sewing Time Live Broadcast. I will recap the episode on this blog, and other social media.
