FOUNDATIONS REVEALED COMPETITION ENTRY
Waistcoat
(click images to to enlarge)
Other Credits
Black Snail Patterns
Outline the story …
This waistcoat is inspired by Guilderoy Lockheart from Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets by J.K. Rowling. From reading the books I see his clothes as quite flamboyant but formal so when I came across this fabric in my stash I thought it was perfect because of it's formality, but subtle bling.
I chose to make a waistcoat because I wanted something that would be a fun challenge, and if it went well it would also fit quite nicely into my wardrobe should I wish.
Outline the construction…
The pattern comes from Black Snail Patterns and it is for an 1890's vest. In hindsight this pattern may have been a more challenging choice for my first go at a waistcoat however it was fun to make so I did not mind too much.
The fabric I had in my stash was a polyester jacquard that I bought as an impulse during the first lockdown. At times I did struggle with the amount it frayed however I soon found having a candle close by was a huge help because it meant I could melt the edges slightly.
The biggest challenge I think I faced was being told at the end of December that I couldn't return to my uni accommodation because that meant that I was stuck with literally a machine, pins, pencil case and scissors. Although I had such a small range of tools I was determined to make the waistcoat just to be able to say that I did it. If I had have been allowed back to my accommodation I would have used my dress form to help with the fit as I have some spinal issues which can make garments that go below my waist fit very oddly. Luckily the corset helped smooth things out a bit more than I expected. Being allowed back would have also given me access to the clothes that actually fit with the waistcoat (eg waist high skirts) instead of the mish mash I ended up with.
What a thing to start with! So much structure and fit. And it worked so well. I love the fabric, too. I hope you wear it often and proudly. Best of luck x
Stunning! Will you sign my book Professor?
What a classy waistcoat! The covered buttons are a nice touch. I can absolutely envision Guilderoy Lockheart in such a garment!
It looks amazing. Beautiful collar.
What a great look, I love it!
Lovely! I would totally wear this for every day fashion and channel my inner Lockheart XD
I just went and bought that pattern based on how well your vest came out – it’s beautiful. Brava!
The double breasted style of the waistcoat with the choice of fabric just cries out “Guilderoy Lockheart”! Great job.
Love that fabric!!
OMG, just look at that! That is so stunning! Everything in this waistcoat is beautiful
Love this!
It fits perfectly!
This is wonderful! Absolutely something Lockhart would have worn.
That is lovely! Marvellously done!
It looks sumptuous! I love it!
I would never have guessed you had any fitting issues. It looks fantastic! The fabric choice and clear buttons are so perfect for your theme, and just a beautiful garment on its own.
I love the fabric and think it’s perfect for Gilderoy’s character – you did an amazing job, I would never have known about the challenges you faced without your explanation. The collar, the buttons, the fit… wow!
Very nice, I love a well made waistcoat and you did it! Thank you!
This looks wonderful and the fabric is very fitting for Gilderoy Lockhart!
I think this turned out wonderfully and that fabric has Lockhart written all over it.
I love the shape of this waistcoat! The fabric is perfect for lockhart but I would happily wear it anyday.
This is an amazing interpretation of something he would wear. I love your fabric choice! Awesome job!