Prototyping: Mixed Media …Materials and Design

By on November 10, 2011

I spent the better part of last week developing some new ideas for my jackets.  I have a whack of designs that I am working out for some very exclusive retailers.   A lot  of my experience working and hanging out with other designers as well as my fascination with odd and old designs has led me down the road of mixed media.  That is to say, the beauty of old world materials like wool, leather and oil skin cotton should be mixed and matched to create beautiful well balanced jackets.  Usually I make smaller prototypes and have friends try them on.  Winter is approaching and I wanted to make two jackets I could wear in the cold.  I wanted them to be warm and in the case of the oilskin, moderately water proof.

This is Italian dark brown horsehide, with black oilskin and 1930s ball and chain chest zippers mixed with old stock lightning cuff zippers.  The inside is thick heavy Melton wool body liner and cotton twill sleeves.

The second jacket is a perfect blend of European veg. tanned goat skin, in two tones, with plaid wool body and a beige flannel liner.  Nice for mid weather, I used my deadstock 1930s urethane rimmed buttons and an nice simple tube cut.  It really creates a balance of simple beauty and nice details.  The A gusset stands out in leather against the dark rich greens of the plaid.  I think these are really beautiful but I wont know until I wear them out in the world and see what my friends think!


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3 Responses to “Prototyping: Mixed Media …Materials and Design”

  1. Shawn
    November 10, 2011 at 7:03 pm |

    Mr. Himel,
    I don’t know what your friends will say about the new jackets, but I think they’re incredible. I’m sure either one of those could end up a cherished heirloom. I also love the blanket lined pieces you did. Great work!!

  2. David Himel
    November 10, 2011 at 10:06 pm |

    thats awesome…thanks for the compliments

  3. Vanessa
    November 12, 2011 at 1:26 am |

    Mr. Himel,
    I don’t know what your friends will say about the new jackets, but I think they’re incredible. I’m sure either one of those could end up a cherished heirloom. I also love the blanket lined pieces you did. Great work!!
    +1

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