After we got past all the silliness on Project Runway this week where the designers had to sell crappy t-shirts, we got down to the real challenge, design a look for fall that includes outerwear. On the show it was a team challenge so they had to do two looks, since here at PPR we are working on our own we only had to do one.
I’ve done a lot of jackets already this season, so I wanted to do something a little different for my outerwear. Well, sometimes inspiration comes from the oddest places, mine came from Dolores Umbridge.
I was going to do a cape. Not in pinks and purple with frilly edges by any means, but something a little retro and ladylike.
I did the cape in a beautiful, heathered, red wool. It has contrasting black stitching and black buttons. It is taken on and off by unbuttoning one set of the buttons. This cape almost looks like it could be vintage.
Underneath the cape is a much more modern look. A black, jersey, turtleneck tunic with textured leather sleeves is worn over black leggings. The look is very sleek. I love the way the turtleneck and touch of leather sleeve peek through the cape.
I didn’t feel this look needed much accessorizing. I went with black Nine West boots and a satchel bag. I wanted a bag that felt a bit like an old doctor’s bag to compliment the cape.
So, how did I do this week? Well, you know Heidi loves the tunic because it’s short, tight and a little shiny. Nina would probably find it very editorial, as the cape is interesting. And I think Michael would compliment the construction. My one worry would be if they thought the cape was a little too vintage or, horrors, a little costumey. Still, I’m pretty sure I’m heading to challenge #9.
© 2005 – 2012 Kathy Lewinski & Susan Cornish
Kathy! When are you going to start your own line? I love love love this look. I’m not normally into capes like that, but it’s gorgeous! I think you’d have gotten good marks all around and definitely have been in the top.
Agreed! When I saw your inspiration picture I was a little worried, but your end design is updated, edgy and with just a nod to the retro inspiration 🙂 Love that you accessorized with a doctor bag… I love reading all the PPR posts!
This is a stunning look so perfect for your model.