Embellished Jackets
A client recently brought two denim jackets into the studio to create bespoke keepsakes for her granddaughter and asked me to explore two meaningful concepts: a dynamic dragon motif honoring her granddaughter’s zodiac year, and a homage to Saint Francis of Assisi, patron saint of animals and children. To weave her own story into the garments, she supplied religious medallions and pendants collected during her travels, alongside fabric paints and iron-on accents.
Work on the dragon jacket began with a hand-painted draft of the central figure and treasure hoard. From there, I hand-beaded the entire motif using waxed silk thread. I prefer conditioned silk for high-wear embellishment because its strength outperforms standard cotton or polyester threads. A curated mix of Czech glass beads, Delica beads, crystal squares, and rice pearls creates a rich, tactile surface, complemented by silk French knots. The accompanying shield uses a structured silk duchess satin base, backstitched for security and detailed with silk embroidery, while the banner features catch-stitched linen and an embroidered silk banner pole.
For the Saint Francis jacket, the central focus is a back-panel mural designed in the style of a historic Byzantine mosaic. By layering sheer coats of paint, the composition retains a soft, radiant quality. The saint’s halo and surrounding trees feature hand-beading for added dimensional contrast, while the travel charms are anchored so they catch the light and chime softly as the jacket moves. Botanical touches—like a silk velvet rosebud, hand-appliquéd cotton foliage, puff paint floral motifs, and a repurposed cashmere detail—bring the entire piece together.
Have an heirloom, a story, or a favorite garment you'd like to transform? I love to bring client visions to life through fine hand-work. Inquire about custom commissions.
