Loes Hinse 5102 Retro Jacket

eviewed by:	Ann Smith	About Ann Smith CA USA Member since: 8/24/02 Reviews written: 155 Sewing skills:Advanced Favored by: 186 people patterns reviewed: 152 Bio: I love to sew for fashion, especially unusual designs. I own way too many patterns and fabric! I hav...full profile
Posted on:	10/10/04 4:32 PM
Last Updated:	10/10/04 4:47 PM
Pattern Size:	Regular
Project Photo:
Pattern Photo:	Loes Hinse Designs Pattern Information Pattern Information provided by Ann Smith
Pattern Rating:	Recommended, but with modifications
See other patterns in this category:	Coat/Jacket
Available for sale on PR:	Yes
I had enough of this moleskin (or is it faux suede?) to make a jacket to match my Gore Skirt. I have read many rave reviews about this pattern and have been waiting for the opportunity to try it out. This is the second Loes Hinse jacket I have made with princess seaming and I'm again not happy with the look. I guess it is my body type but I feel that the look is frumpy, or is the word matronly. It surprises me because I have read that princess seams are slimming. Somehow on me it appears to be broadening. I cut the size S at the shoulders and size S with large seam allowances at the sides. I dropped the bust fullness which I always need to do. This was easy to do with the princess seam. After the jacket was almost done I tapered in the princess and side seams below the bust as it seemed too boxy. I always have to shorten sleeves around 2 inches but not with this pattern. Loes seems to style for short arms. If I were to make this again I would also shorten the jacket length some. Following LH technique I did not interface. I thought it would be all right with this firm fabric. It is fine except for the buttonhole areas. I should have interfaced. Another few points about this jacket...I think it would look nice hanging open except for the awkward look of the buttons and buttonholes. Mine does not hang open the way it is shown on the pattern envelope but with much wider open lapels. I also find it fussy in putting it on to get the collar to fold just right. A few tailoring techniques might have taken care of that. I guess my recommendation is that it could be a good jacket depending on your shape. I doubt I would make it again. Then again, maybe with a different fabric.....hmmm.