September 10, 2019
The 1914 Metropolitan Suit reflects the military styling of World War I uniforms, as well as the mid-1910s interest in comfortable and practical two-piece garments. The Jacket features a tall rollover collar with either a curved or pointed center back, gently pointed center back hem, softly flared silhouette, and turn-back cuffs. The front closes with ornamental frogs. Soutache or other ornamental braid in military design motifs create an accurate period look, but contemporary designs in ribbon or braid trim are attractive too.
The Skirt is slightly hobbled, with a raised waistline and a slit at center back for ease of walking. The Overskirt attaches to the skirt at the top edge and drapes attractively at the back hem. The front folds of the Overskirt can be decoratively topstitched to the Skirt from the waist edge down to the hip area, if desired. If worn without the Jacket, the Skirt can be further embellished with buttons down the front folds of the Overskirt, or with suspenders crossed in the back, or with belt loops and belt at the natural waistline. Wear the Skirt with #270 Metro Middy Blouse (tucked in or not) for a breezy casual look. Top off the Suit with #269 Metropolitan Hat for a complete and classy ensemble.
Suggested Fabrics: Tropical-weight and other lightweight wools and wool blends; wool crepe, basketweave, worsted, gabardine; suit-weight and other medium-weight silks; medium-to-heavyweight rayons. The design of this suit is meant to be somewhat soft and fluid, but cottons and linens can be used if desired, for a more structured result.
Below are some fabric suggestions from some of our favorite fabric stores. However, PLEASE NOTE, these suggested fabrics are based on fabrics that are in stock at the time the blog post is written, and may go out of stock from store at some point. If link is invalid for specific product, look for a similar fabric you can substitute.
This tropical weight wool silk blend from Vogue Fabrics caught my eye. The heathered texture and drape of this fabric would be a great choice for the Metropolitan Suit. I love this color!
Bolt Fabrics has a variety of colors of Merchant & Mills Tencel in stock that would make a soft and more flow-y suit.
Stonemountain and Daughter has a lovely selection of Worsted Wool Crepe available. This wine color is very luscious, but they also have neutral colors in stock.
From Oak Fabrics has a sanded twill that would make a more utilitarian look to this striking pattern. And, I like this grey!
September 24, 2024 5 Comments on 268 Metropolitan Suit and Fabric Suggestions