A fab classic trench coat pattern

If you’re looking to make a classic trench coat, I don’t think you need look much further than the Isla sewing pattern. It’s an intricate and advanced pattern with loads of lovely design details.

From the extensive topstitching to the gorgeous cape features, it really does make for a smart coat. And being fully lined it looks beautiful inside and out.

This project is a bit of an undertaking, though, so it’s probably best to tackle it in short bursts and expect it to take you several sewing sessions. But it’s definitely achievable and you should end up with a lovely trench coat for all your efforts.

I used a showerproof cotton-blend twill, underlined with lightweight cotton calico, for my trench coat. It is lined with viscose in the body and with a viscose twill lining fabric in the sleeves. I made a straight size 38 and shortened the pattern pieces by 4”/10cm.

I found the drafting and the instructions to be generally really good and easy to follow, although the vent instructions/diagrams could have been a touch more detailed. In the end I chose to hand stitch the lining around the vent and hems, as I often do for outerwear, to avoid the risk of any issues with the bagging out method.

My more detailed review on my blog (www.michellesews.com) will include video on how I dealt with the lining and some further thoughts and tips if you’re making this pattern. But, long story short, I fully recommend this pattern and hope to make a wool coat from it one day!