After

Before

Found a military jacket on clearance – it was missing a few buttons.

The jacket had princess seaming and some sleeve detail that just screamed out “Embellish Me!”  Not being one to deny a screaming jacket, it came home with me.

Lower Back

Embellishments do not always “work.”  The first attempts was too garish – which can happen with greens and purples.

The back included a band of the wide green embellished ribbon that eventually found its home on the lower right sleeve and the purple silk semi-circle. The two colors were too saturated and just seemed to clash when placed adjacently.

So, the jacket was hung in the closet waiting for a new wave of inspiration to tackle me.

Right Sleeve and Front

Inspiration was scheduled by a foolish back injury that dictated a few days of couch time.

Beads, threads and small fabric scraps in the blue, green and purple colors scheme were extricated from The Stash and piled next to me.  A heating pad was placed under my back – and the fun began!

Jacket Fronts

The original jacket front had buttons on both sides, but I wanted the “band jacket” embellishments.  Many colors of ribbon were auditioned for this role, but the military green grosgrain that was just subtly different that the jacket color worked best.

A tiny prairie point adds an unexpected touch.

The blue runched ribbon from The Stash was just the right length for the front inner placket!

Although difficult to see in the photo, the collar is embellished with  curlicue embroidery.

The beaded face cabochon had been attached to the back as part of the first embellishment attempt.  Adding the grey-blue lace piece and the beaded “crown” prevented it from “floating” on the upper back.

Face Cabochon Detail

Beading and simple lazy daisy stitch were added to the upper edge of the lace.

The same lace was also added under the front pockets and on either side of the lower back.

Gimp, beads and simple embroidery embellished the hem and all seams.

Embellished Front and Sleeves

The original jacket had three cotton twill ribbons on the lower sleeves.  The first embellishment attempt included 1/8″ ribbon over these.  It did not lay flat so was removed and replaced with other ribbons and embroidery.  Another prairie point was also incorporated.

Back View

The full back picture shows the face cabochon and the lower back.  The antique lace and prairie points create an abstract sunrise motif.

Left Front

Detail of Pocket and Seam Treatments

The end results are all positive – my back is better and the jacket is a fun casual – and not garish – piece to wear!