I created this jacket for a college Literature professor who was having a Victorian/Steampunk themed party for her students. She has had difficulty getting clothing to fit because of severe scoliosis. I designed the jacket to flatter her figure and take away from the obvious curvature of her spine. It is based on a Victorian motoring coat. The jacket is made of brown duck canvas. The facings, pocket trim and bound buttonholes are lighter weight paisley canvas. The gear themed buttons were special ordered. Jacket is unlined. It has a notched collar, bound buttonholes and a welt hip pocket. The lacing detail in the back passes through loops made of the jacket fabric. Although intended for a costume party, the professor wore her jacket throughout the fall as part of her normal wardrobe. It has classic elements that serve well for everyday wear. In more luxurious fabric, it would make a delightful evening jacket.
A Maker who has been a valued part of this community for several years.
Customers say that this Maker ships promptly after completing a project.
This Maker has consistently demonstrated excellence in craftsmanship and customer service.
About Me
I have over 40 years of fine sewing and handwork experience. My training includes couture bridal sewing with Susan Khalje, contributing editor to Threads magazine, and custom pattern fitting and drafting with Professor Kenneth D. King from FIT. I've attended numerous workshops given by professionals in the sewing industry and participate on Sewing Pattern Review discussion board.
About My Work
For the last 7 years I've been making dreams come true for everyone from anime cosplayers to brides and bridesmaids. I work primarily from inspiration drawings and photographs to create unique clothing that fits your style and flatters your figure. My specialty is fitting curvy women.
A guide to the best items from the best makers and the stories behind them.
Brandon Emry
For Prometheus hoodieBarbara was fantastic working with me on this hoodie. She was very busy, but still found time to work with me and the turn around time was super fast, and so was shipping. Got the hoodie today and it is fantastic!! Couldn't ask for a better product. Fantastic maker!!
Rosanne
For Rosanne's wedding dressBarbara Hilow is a wonderful professional couture level dress maker. She took my vision and created a black suit which was influenced by a Chanel dress I had seen. Barbara was a pleasure to work with and I would recommend her to anyone who has a special dress making project. If you are a bride to be, a business woman, a lady looking to create with a good resource, Barbara is just that. You will have fun with your project and I know you will be happy with the results. Rosanne Wagner.
John McMinn
For Cowl Neck HoodieThis took me some time to write only because I've been buried with a ton of work. That being said, Barbara made the best Hoodie for me and exactly to my specifications. I used it constantly during the holiday season and during my winter travels. Also, I work in a cold office so it really came in handy there as well. Barbara had many projects going at once and constantly kept me in the loop. She even got very sick and still managed to find the time to work on all her projects, including mine. Very happy with the outcome and definitely look forward to having another piece custom made.
Dan
For Renessaince Shirts' with embellishmentI had chosen Barbara, primarily for her knowledge and zeal/passion/desire to do this work. I wanted something a little out of the ordinary """ Custom"".. In every aspect Barbara delivered when i asked if something could be done.. Can't beat that....ever. That's the best, i plan on having her make a few more things for me in the future.
Holt Starck
For Cowl neck hoodieBarbara is such an amazing women. She made me the coolest hoodie known to man and I couldn't be more grateful. She was extremely nice during the whole process, walked me through all the steps of how my project was to be tackled and made a very high quality final product. I would definitely recommend Barbara if you are looking for a professional to make you any kind of custom made clothing. A+++