Made by a Fabricista: Channeling my Inner Coco Chanel

Made by a Fabricista: Channeling my Inner Coco Chanel

Hi Everyone! My name is Johanna Ali and I am SEW excited to be a Fabric Mart Fabricista! I’ve been shopping with Fabric Mart for years and have been wanting to be a Fabricista since then too, so I jumped at the opportunity as soon as they posted it. So, here I am. I will be sharing my Chanel Inspired Jacket and how I made my own trim.

The classic Chanel Jacket is iconic and sophisticated as it should be with the price tag associated with them. Usually, the classic Chanel Jacket is made using a tweed or a bouclé fabric and are hand sewn. This is what makes them couture. Other distinct characteristics are the front pockets, the ornate buttons and trim as well as the chain weighted hem. The lining is also quilted to the jacket.


There are several patterns produced by the big 4 pattern companies that you can use for this make. Initially, I was going to use Vogue 8804, but I decided to go in a different direction and used Simplicity 8741 instead with some modifications.

I sewed view A. I removed the front facing of the jacket because I was not going to add any closures to it. I removed 2 inches from the sleeve hem and I used the pockets from Vogue 8804.

While searching for fabric on Fabric Mart Fabrics website, I came across this beautiful Royal Blue/Black Polyester Geometric Design Boucle Suiting. I selected this fabric because blue is my favorite color. I also selected it because I really liked the pattern on the fabric. Since there aren’t any straight lines, I wouldn’t have to worry about pattern matching.

Another distinct feature that I love about the Chanel Jacket are the infinite options you can use for the trim. If you go on Pinterest and look up Chanel Jacket trims you will truly be mind blown. Some trims you might see are ribbon, chain, braided trim and even pearls. I decided to make my own! It’s not as difficult as you might think. Cut 2” strips of fabric on the bias of your fabric. Sew a zig zag stitch on the fabric down the center of the length of your strip of fabric. Also, I cut mine on the fold and I sewed both pieces together. Then, I used a seam ripper to separate the fabric threads and that’s it! I’m kind of kidding. Pack your patience as you’ll have to make enough to go ALL around ALL of the outer seams of your jacket as well as your pockets. It will be so worth it in the end. I promise.



Although, I totally cheated and didn’t sew a traditional couture garment, I am so in love with my Chanel Inspired Jacket. It’s so chic! As I said above, I really love that you can totally customize your jacket and give it your personal touch.


I hope you all enjoyed my jacket as much as I do.

Until next time!

JOHANNA | @soveryjo





Unfortunately Fabric Mart Fabrics sell out quickly!
You can find similar fabrics by shopping the following categories: BOUCLE & SUITING.

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9 comments

  • Author image
    Pat Gottshalk: April 05, 2021

    The fringe is perfection and the color is delicious.

  • Author image
    R: April 06, 2021

    What a super interpretation of the classic Chanel jacket. Your trim is beautiful and obviously took lots of effort. Well done!

  • Author image
    So Very Jo: April 06, 2021

    Thank you so much! I loved learning how to make it.

  • Author image
    JD: April 06, 2021

    Love your fringe treatment. The pockets are fabulous. This looks great on you.

  • Author image
    So Very Jo: April 07, 2021

    Thank you! Yes, the trim took a bit more time then I thought it would. I even had my husband helping me out. lol

  • Author image
    So Very Jo: April 07, 2021

    Thank you so much. I won't lie and say I want to add trim to everything now!

  • Author image
    Craft Therapy: April 09, 2021

    I love it! It's simply fabulous!

  • Author image
    Unknown: December 27, 2023

    Stunning and such personality. I am glad you brought up the jacket hem, it is just right to be flattering. I would love to see the inside finishes too.

  • Author image
    Anonymous: January 02, 2024

    Vogue Magazine worthy! Wow!!!!!

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