Cloning a 2013 Alexander McQueen coat for less

Name Cloning a 2013 Alexander McQueen coat for less
Status in progress
Happiness
Started Sep 9, 2020
Completed Oct 2, 2021
Progress 100 %
Privacy public
Notes I used 3 meters of wool for the outside fabric, and 2 meters of fabric for the inside lining. Other things I bought were 8 large buttons and 8 smaller once for the sleeve, shoulder pads and 1 meter of interfacing. Total costs were around €55 (compared to ±2000 to the original). Next time I'll buy a higher quality wool, this quality isn't bad but ever single hair sticks to the fabric like no tomorrow.

First coat I ever made, and of course I decided to make it easy for myself and change the pattern a bit. I apparently have a bit of a vendetta against mock-ups so I don't make those. I lengthened each panel around 20-30 cm. I also changed the front patch pockets to double welted slanted pockets (first time for those kind of pockets too, of course). For the collar I made it quite a bit smaller so it wouldn't fall past my shoulders.
I made the vents on the sleeves fake and added 4 buttons afterward.

The only thing I regret is not adding an extra layer between the lining and outside fabric, it's not suitable for temperatures below 5 degrees C. A bit of flannel, molton, fleece or thermolam would've done the trick.
Overall I think I didn't do too badly and the coat looks quite a bit like the inspiration picture (it's the one with the Alexander McQueen label). Thing I would pay more attention to next time:
- Setting the sleeves (one sleeve is the tiniest bit twisted at the end of the sleeve)
- The collar is a bit wonky on one side (you don't really notice unless you know), it's also a bit voluminous even though I cut down the seam allowance; I don't want to topstitch, but this would probably make it lay a bit nicer.
- Adding more room for the lining; I had to add an extra panel in the centre so there was more room for movement (adding at least 4 cm extra overall at the centre back next time so I can make a nice pleat).
- The pockets are huge and I love them (my wallet, keys, phone, even a bicycle tire pump, fit easily), adding a lining pocket would however be a fun thing to think about next time.

Users Comments

  • Kristen Howard

    oh wow!

  • MissIbis

    super

  • Melani

    Gorgeous!

  • Maria

    How nice to be inspired by a special coat and successfully recreate it for yourself. You have done a great job :)
    If you had the authentic A McQ version I expect this would be less useful - I am sure that his pockets would not accommodate a bicycle pump…!!!

  • Pharmgirl

    Lovely!!

  • Anne-Marie Dionne

    You did a great job. I love that even if it is a winter coat, it is not too bulky. I am still wondering about putting your bicycle pump in your pocket ! :)

  • désirée boutault

    tres beau travail dont vous pouvez etre fière BRAVO

  • KiraTF

    Its a great coat!Excellent job!!!

  • Jane Riebe

    Aside from the shortcomings you've listed, your coat looks amazing!!! In all my years of sewing, I have yet to make a coat and applaud anyone who does.