Inspiration:

If you've read about my Caraco Gown, you'll know that I've had a lot of fitting and comfort issues with the bodice. Well, it got to be too much. The top was a lot of trouble to wash and care for - every time I wanted to wash it I had to remove the spiral steel boning and then when it was cleaned, I'd have to sew them back in. It was too much of a pain.

So, to solve my fitting and washing problems I decided to buy a corset to take the strain off of the top and make a new jacket to fit over the corset.

Materials:

J.P. Ryan's Caraco Jacket pattern, printed cotton for jacket and lining, lace for sleeve ruffles, hooks and eyes.

Construction:

When I remade this top I was very careful to follow the instructions carefully and not make any boo-boos while I was sewing. I fit the top up close to me without the corset on and it fit perfectly with the corset on. I wouldn't suggest that everyone fit their outfits that way - it just works for me because I have hardly any figure. :)

Some small changes I made to the gown were making the neck more square (instead of round) and basting lace ruffles onto the sleeves (made following the pattern's instructions). The reason the gown is more open in front than the previous one resulted from something that could be considered a mistake - but it really wasn't a problem.

So, this wasn't much different than my previous jacket (except easier). It was rather boring to do the same outfit over again (learn from me people, do it right the first time!), but I'm so glad that I got it done.

The Finished Jacket:

I'm so happy that I decided to remake this top - the fit is just perfect!

For more photos of me wearing my caraco remake view Becky's Birthday Masquerade pictures and photos from City on a Hill: 4th of July Celebration!