London is bloody cold at the moment! And what makes it worse, is due to the usual lack of funds, I’m forced to wear the same Winter coat I’ve worn for 3 Winters running. (I’m impressing no one with this fact) And it is for this reason that dragging myself outside for anything other than work, is tough.
The one time this season I have braved londons artic conditions, and the icy glances of clued up fashionistas, was to check out ‘Yes Man’. I loved the book and so understandably approached the film with huge sceptisim. There are 2 reasons i came away loving this film. The first is Zooey Deschanel. I love her, and this has nothing to do with her acting. Her elfin-like beauty charms me everytime. And the second reason is a certain winter coat worn by Zooey throughout the majority of the movie. Having studided and worked as a costume designer, I’ve convinced myself it’s only natural to take a keen interest in the most beautiful royal blue with trimmed red piping, double breasted, mid length military inspired wonder. But alas, after much research, this is the only picture i could find..
Also catching my attention was this rather cool PVC 60’s inspired rainmac…
But back to the first. Costume Designer Mark Bridges confirms my suspicions, that it is indeed a one off vintage find. GUTTED!
Convinced that my Winter will improve 100% by having this coat, I have a few options.
- Find a replica (for as cheap as possible)
- Find one similar and alter (for as cheap as possible)
- Make one (for as cheap as possible)
Colourwise, Asos come near the mark with this Dahia Double Breasted Coat with Red Trim. But at £80, I’m happy to keep looking.
My second option, to alter an exsisting coat seemed the next best option. I found this Fantastic site Vintagetrends.com selling some incredible vintage and military wear. But to be honest, if I was going to have to take the coat apart to insert the piping, I might as well start from scratch myself and get it perfect first time. My sewing machine could do with a good run, and my tailoring skills certainly need a polish up… so making it myself it is then, and I’ll be sure to document it for those of you up for a challenge.
Lets hope it doesn’t take too long as the weather is supposed to warm up come monday… Shit!