NOTE: The following blog entry is intended solely for a small minority of my readers: the genuinely weird.
I ask that all others please stop reading now and return tomorrow.
Now, then, weirdos:
I feel like I can let my hair down with you. We understand one another. You don't judge. So, here's my story:
I'm going through this really strange phase, or rather, obsession. Can you guess what it is?
I cannot stop looking at jumpsuit patterns. I don't discriminate: mens, womens, teens, it doesn't matter. It's that full-body-garment-with-the-zipper-up-the-front thing. I'm fixated.
I think it started with this and has developed into a full-blown fetish -- since Sunday!
Many of my less compassionate readers are only feeding my weakness, cruelly tempting me with jumpsuit patterns to make me salivate on command like Pavlov's dog.
I received the above Butterick pattern in the mail yesterday from a certain reader-who knows-who-she-is and honestly, I couldn't stop looking at it, fingering it. If it hadn't been so old and fragile I would have slept with it under my pillow like a baby tooth, hoping I'd wake up wearing the finished outfit and maybe find five dollars in the pants pocket.
So I need your help. I'm leaning toward launching right into this project today. I probably will try it out in a relatively plain fabric before I make the gold lame version.
But I need your honest opinion about its potential for me. Please help me prevent possible embarrassment -- or worse -- even in my hip-and-happening neighborhood.
Your answers will make my decision...and perhaps change the rest of my life.
As always, your additional comments and insights are always welcome.
And in the modern world of jumpsuits (which I recognize is not your forte - but still...) burda had a take 1, make 4 jumpsuit feature in the April '09 issue - http://www.burdafashion.com/en/Magazines/Archives/Take_2_make_4/1270777-1463237-1695463-1695476.html Yummy, no?
I think that you are just ahead of the fashion curve. I mean, it's been at least 30 years since the last run, the jumpsuit is way overdue for a come back! And have to echo anonymous up there, why bother sewing if you could just buy it? Where's the fun in that? A few more for inspiration.
Dude. You had me at the picture of the Not To Distant Future. But really, everyone needs a shiny silver jumpsuit at some point in their lives. The fact that you might also like a big ol' flowery 70's jumpsuit or maybe Sean's blue terry cloth romper? Well, that just makes you, you know, interesting. God knows there are too many uninteresting people in this world.
Have you been to Paris? The garbage men there wear dark blue jumpsuits and foulards very similar to the blue one in the last pattern. They manage to remain impossibly chic while collecting garbage. Honestly, it is quite a feat, and I can't help but admire and envy their stylish-under-any-circumstances bravado. You should go for the French Garbage Man look: jumpsuit and foulard.
If anyone can pull it off, it's you, Peter! Start in a neutral and work your way up. Also, spend plenty of time flouncing around in your apartment in it so you feel confident once you hit the streets. Can't wait to see what you make.
If you need an immediate fix get back to that thrift store where your cousin Cathy got her heels for that photo shoot a while back. There are sure to be at least seven to chose from in the racks complete with a name tag that says "Mike." Make sure you get one with the metal belt hardware. Those are the best. Can't wait to see what you come up with!
Thank you for the first laugh-out-loud moment of the day! The Poll--I could not vote; you're in your own wonderful category. I do agree you need a foulard to go with it. (Way to make me go look up that word, Claudine. I thought it was an ascot, but I guess there's a difference!)
I LOVE IT! I also have a jumpsuit fascination, but they just don't work on my, uh, shall we say "voluptuous" body. I'm especially enamoured with the second to last one, in long sleeves like the picture. Ooooooh...
And if I were a tall slim man, like you, I would *so* be making that McCalls 2923 in blue, with turtleneck and boots, just like the pattern. Absolutely fabulous.
Please go for it! Live the life some of us can only dream about!
I love jumpsuits, and here at the Refinery, all the men (and some of the women) wear them. Properly fitted, they look stunning! I've never had one fall in the toilet, but I've shivered while sitting there any number of times. Lucky for you you have the plumbing for it. You might consider one of those two-headed zippers. -- San Antonio Sue
*TPFIC* Hm... What I hate about jumpsuits is the whole having-to-get-undressed-to-use-the-toilet thing. Hey! I have an idea.... ;) You could make pants that button to a shirt for the look of a jumpsuit without the inconvenience!
Seriously though, make the Star Trek one--- McCalls 2923. And be sure to tuck the bottoms into boots and wear a turtleneck underneath so that you look like young Kirk.
I'm going to publicly air a fantasy that's been heretofore kept solely to myself; you making and wearing a sky blue leisure suit with white topstitching. That blue jumpsuit in that pattern is getting awfully close.
Being a female, I naturally resent jumpsuits for the obvious practical "nature calling" reasons. It's like button fly jeans with macrame belts in my youth, when consuming too much alcohol. You, Peter, would look stylish in any of them (and boy did I love Lost in Space-aren't you too young to be a fan...Danger Danger) and if the zipper is long enough or however the male jumpsuit works, go for it. Cathy might have another opinion.
And can I just add (appropos of nothing): "Beach Bods or Bagels".
What, is that a question? Because seriously, I used to live across the street from Ess-A-Bagel, and that is in no way any comparison to any beach bod you can throw at me. No. Not even Sean Connery's (or my personal favorite, Daniel Craig's).
I think you will look fab in any of those jumpsuits, my favorite is M2923. I do have a question though. Aren't jumpsuits really uncomfortable? I vaguely remember wearing one in the 70's or 80's and if I remember correctly, it was hideously uncomfortable. Plus the bathroom issue and I'll pass on jumpsuits.
However, Peter you will look absolutely fabulous in yours.
From http://www.guardian.co.uk/lifeandstyle/2008/jan/17/fashion.shopping:
"Men's jumpsuits are now arriving in stores from the likes of Prada, Calvin Klein and Mulberry, and I think they're a challenge we should accept...
...Prada's jumpsuit is for those who are lucky enough to be lanky, as are most of the designer jumpsuit offerings. If you try one on, and I do hope that you will, make sure you look at yourself from all angles, particularly the side. Paunches are what prevent most men from engaging in designer clothing, and jumpsuits have a nasty habit of riding a touch too tight over that humiliating area. Also make sure the jumpsuit fastens low enough to allow yourself quick access at the urinal. And, finally, you need to ask yourself the all-important romper-suit question: do I look like a grown-up baby? After all, I'm jealous of the ease with which my friend Ruth dresses her newborn son Arthur, but nobody wants to look as if they swap fashion tips with under-fives."
I actually think the Butterick 5629 with the prince(ss) seams is kinda sleek, and you would totally rock it.
Peter, check out the Marc by Marc Jacobs slideshow from Fashion Week. http://www.style.com/fashionshows/review/F2010RTW-MARC There's a great jumpsuit in there. If done right, a jumpsuit doesn't have to be Liberace. (Not that there's anything wrong with that!)
Have I told you that you are the most amazing male sewist out there? I nominated you for the Kreativ blogger award, here is the link http://sulovessew.wordpress.com/2010/02/17/award/
Bravo for a brave fashion statement. Can't wait to see the finished product. This post specifically caught my eye because I too am looking for jumpsuit patterns, but for skiwear. Python vinyl SOUNDS intriguing, but very very sweaty.
I know this is an old post, but Peter! I'm obsessed with jumpsuits too! From coveralls to pure seventies jumpsuits I love them. I'm not sure I can wear them, but from the Runaways to the Dharma Initiative, I think about sewing them a lot. I am new to your missives, but of course I adore you.
I'm a native New Yorker and sewing fanatic! I started sewing in 2009 and today make all my own clothes using vintage sewing machines and vintage patterns, in addition to sewing for private clients. Welcome to the warm and whimsical world of Male Pattern Boldness, where the conversation is sewing, style, fashion, fabric, and more!
Posts
I love that you are doing your own thing. Why bother sewing if you just sew stuff that you could buy at every store.
ReplyDeleteAnd in the modern world of jumpsuits (which I recognize is not your forte - but still...) burda had a take 1, make 4 jumpsuit feature in the April '09 issue - http://www.burdafashion.com/en/Magazines/Archives/Take_2_make_4/1270777-1463237-1695463-1695476.html
ReplyDeleteYummy, no?
I didn't do the poll, because you didn't include 'none of the above'. Go for it, you'll look unique. Mae
ReplyDeleteOMG. That simplicity 9418, the flowered one? totally amazing. I can so see that in like, a pucci print, with big chunky platform shoes ....
ReplyDelete(new reader to your blog, through the selfish seamstress)
I think that you are just ahead of the fashion curve. I mean, it's been at least 30 years since the last run, the jumpsuit is way overdue for a come back!
ReplyDeleteAnd have to echo anonymous up there, why bother sewing if you could just buy it? Where's the fun in that?
A few more for inspiration.
So excited to have found your blog!
Dude. You had me at the picture of the Not To Distant Future. But really, everyone needs a shiny silver jumpsuit at some point in their lives. The fact that you might also like a big ol' flowery 70's jumpsuit or maybe Sean's blue terry cloth romper? Well, that just makes you, you know, interesting. God knows there are too many uninteresting people in this world.
ReplyDeleteHave you been to Paris? The garbage men there wear dark blue jumpsuits and foulards very similar to the blue one in the last pattern. They manage to remain impossibly chic while collecting garbage. Honestly, it is quite a feat, and I can't help but admire and envy their stylish-under-any-circumstances bravado. You should go for the French Garbage Man look: jumpsuit and foulard.
ReplyDeletea) as someone who actually wore Qiana Disco Jumpsuits in the 70s...jumpsuits fall in the toilet *every* time.
ReplyDeleteb) they remind me of Bad Grandpa Sears Zip-Up Jumpsuits (masculine version of Mom's beloved "Zip-and-Go" dresses of that era . . .)
New lurker - enjoy your posts!
If anyone can pull it off, it's you, Peter! Start in a neutral and work your way up. Also, spend plenty of time flouncing around in your apartment in it so you feel confident once you hit the streets. Can't wait to see what you make.
ReplyDeleteIf you need an immediate fix get back to that thrift store where your cousin Cathy got her heels for that photo shoot a while back. There are sure to be at least seven to chose from in the racks complete with a name tag that says "Mike." Make sure you get one with the metal belt hardware. Those are the best. Can't wait to see what you come up with!
ReplyDeleteThank you for the first laugh-out-loud moment of the day! The Poll--I could not vote; you're in your own wonderful category. I do agree you need a foulard to go with it. (Way to make me go look up that word, Claudine. I thought it was an ascot, but I guess there's a difference!)
ReplyDeleteI LOVE IT! I also have a jumpsuit fascination, but they just don't work on my, uh, shall we say "voluptuous" body. I'm especially enamoured with the second to last one, in long sleeves like the picture. Ooooooh...
ReplyDeleteAnd if I were a tall slim man, like you, I would *so* be making that McCalls 2923 in blue, with turtleneck and boots, just like the pattern. Absolutely fabulous.
Please go for it! Live the life some of us can only dream about!
I'm so not kidding - do it for me? Please? :)
I love jumpsuits, and here at the Refinery, all the men (and some of the women) wear them. Properly fitted, they look stunning! I've never had one fall in the toilet, but I've shivered while sitting there any number of times. Lucky for you you have the plumbing for it. You might consider one of those two-headed zippers. -- San Antonio Sue
ReplyDeletea-mazing! You should totally go for it. You definitely need a plain around the house version and a sparkly lame version for social obligations.
ReplyDelete*TPFIC* Hm... What I hate about jumpsuits is the whole having-to-get-undressed-to-use-the-toilet thing. Hey! I have an idea.... ;) You could make pants that button to a shirt for the look of a jumpsuit without the inconvenience!
ReplyDeleteSeriously though, make the Star Trek one--- McCalls 2923. And be sure to tuck the bottoms into boots and wear a turtleneck underneath so that you look like young Kirk.
I'm going to publicly air a fantasy that's been heretofore kept solely to myself; you making and wearing a sky blue leisure suit with white topstitching. That blue jumpsuit in that pattern is getting awfully close.
ReplyDeleteDef Elvis!! I made my son a jumpsuit from a vintage simplicity 9630
ReplyDeleteCheck it out!!
http://www.flickr.com/photos/8584478@N05/sets/72157602391810806/
Being a female, I naturally resent jumpsuits for the obvious practical "nature calling" reasons. It's like button fly jeans with macrame belts in my youth, when consuming too much alcohol. You, Peter, would look stylish in any of them (and boy did I love Lost in Space-aren't you too young to be a fan...Danger Danger) and if the zipper is long enough or however the male jumpsuit works, go for it. Cathy might have another opinion.
ReplyDeleteAnd can I just add (appropos of nothing): "Beach Bods or Bagels".
ReplyDeleteWhat, is that a question? Because seriously, I used to live across the street from Ess-A-Bagel, and that is in no way any comparison to any beach bod you can throw at me. No. Not even Sean Connery's (or my personal favorite, Daniel Craig's).
The first one reminds me of mechanics overalls, more than flouncing material. The rest, flounce away.
ReplyDeleteIt must be something in the water!! Look what I bought off Etsy a few weeks ago, and which I can't stop thinking about:
ReplyDeletehttp://whipstitchsewing.wordpress.com/2010/01/28/is-this-awesome-yn/
It's definitely next on my list. Jumpsuits are great, I think it totally depends on what fabric you use.
I think you will look fab in any of those jumpsuits, my favorite is M2923.
ReplyDeleteI do have a question though. Aren't jumpsuits really uncomfortable? I vaguely remember wearing one in the 70's or 80's and if I remember correctly, it was hideously uncomfortable. Plus the bathroom issue and I'll pass on jumpsuits.
However, Peter you will look absolutely fabulous in yours.
Mermie
I say go for it. They'd all look great on you. Except, I'd avoid that Butterick 5629, View A. It looks a bit too "Want that oil checked, ma'am?"
ReplyDeleteFrom http://www.guardian.co.uk/lifeandstyle/2008/jan/17/fashion.shopping:
ReplyDelete"Men's jumpsuits are now arriving in stores from the likes of Prada, Calvin Klein and Mulberry, and I think they're a challenge we should accept...
...Prada's jumpsuit is for those who are lucky enough to be lanky, as are most of the designer jumpsuit offerings. If you try one on, and I do hope that you will, make sure you look at yourself from all angles, particularly the side. Paunches are what prevent most men from engaging in designer clothing, and jumpsuits have a nasty habit of riding a touch too tight over that humiliating area. Also make sure the jumpsuit fastens low enough to allow yourself quick access at the urinal. And, finally, you need to ask yourself the all-important romper-suit question: do I look like a grown-up baby? After all, I'm jealous of the ease with which my friend Ruth dresses her newborn son Arthur, but nobody wants to look as if they swap fashion tips with under-fives."
I actually think the Butterick 5629 with the prince(ss) seams is kinda sleek, and you would totally rock it.
Peter, check out the Marc by Marc Jacobs slideshow from Fashion Week. http://www.style.com/fashionshows/review/F2010RTW-MARC There's a great jumpsuit in there. If done right, a jumpsuit doesn't have to be Liberace. (Not that there's anything wrong with that!)
ReplyDeleteHave I told you that you are the most amazing male sewist out there? I nominated you for the Kreativ blogger award, here is the link http://sulovessew.wordpress.com/2010/02/17/award/
ReplyDeleteI only have one question...does Cathy like ABBA?
ReplyDeleteGuy, what can I say? You're hilarious! Can't wait to get this garment done.
ReplyDeletePS - Cathy hearts ABBA.
I'm pro jumpsuit, but I think you should use the python vinyl.
ReplyDeleteBravo for a brave fashion statement. Can't wait to see the finished product. This post specifically caught my eye because I too am looking for jumpsuit patterns, but for skiwear.
ReplyDeletePython vinyl SOUNDS intriguing, but very very sweaty.
I know this is an old post, but Peter! I'm obsessed with jumpsuits too! From coveralls to pure seventies jumpsuits I love them. I'm not sure I can wear them, but from the Runaways to the Dharma Initiative, I think about sewing them a lot. I am new to your missives, but of course I adore you.
ReplyDeletePeter, there's a whole joke from the show "Venture Bros." about jumpsuits - which they call "speed suits." You would look very Dr. Venture in one...
ReplyDeletemetallic. go for it.
ReplyDelete