The Willowstorm Coat by Ashley Riley


I can finally say it… she’s finished! And I am over the moon with how she turned out. This coat has been a real labor of love, and seeing her fully lined and ready to wear feels like such an achievement.

Named The Willowstorm Coat, because it feels luxurious, moody, and dramatic, just like deep purple wool blend fabric I used to create it.

I drafted this coat using the bodice block I created back in college, so every part of it is truly made to measure. Working without a pattern or instructions definitely added a bit of spice to the process, but taking my time, testing different construction methods, and trusting my instincts really paid off.

This beauty includes two feature, one I’ve never tackled before, storm flaps and I've improved my welt pocket making.

Both pushed me out of my comfort zone, but I absolutely loved the challenge. There were a few moments of unpicking (as always!), but once the pieces started coming together, everything clicked. The welt pockets especially were a proud-dance-around-the-sewing-room moment!

Sewing a coat has always felt like one of those “one day…” projects, and now that I’ve made one from scratch, I can’t wait to make more. There’s something incredibly satisfying about watching a flat piece of fabric transform into a structured, wearable garment, especially one that feels this special.

If you’re thinking about making your own coat, I say go for it. Take your time, trust your skills, and don’t be afraid to try new techniques. The feeling when you slip on a handmade coat for the first time? Absolutely unbeatable.


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