Fair Weather Jacket

Every girl needs a red coat, and I found the perfect one to make for G. The pattern is the Fair Weather Jacket by Little Prints (available here). I saw this pattern ages ago, but the smallest size is 2. I couldn't wait until G was big enough for it. The wait is over: At two and a half she's ready.

I used red twill for the outer shell and a cotton print for the lining. This is the lining print:

I also used the lining fabric to make fabric covered buttons. Each one is a little different. Here are two of them:

The back has a faux belt held together with two buttons, and it gives the coat a little shape and keeps it from looking too boxy.

And it has a hood that isn't just decorative but large enough to provide protection from not-so-fair weather.

I love the way it turned out, and it wasn't difficult at all. The directions made sense to me for the most part, but if you're not used to sewing from patterns you might need little nudge in the right direction. The pattern was sized almost perfectly for G, which is a rarity since she's so skinny for her age. It fits her well, but there's some room to grow, especially length wise. The sleeves are cuffed and can be rolled down as needed to accommodate a growth spurt or two.This will still fit her in the spring and very likely next fall, too.

 I'll no doubt be making this one again, maybe in a heavier fabric like wool coating for the inevitable colder weather. No reason not to look cute while keeping warm.