Hand Sewing a Victorian Coat: Gonzo Historically Accurate Cosplay from Muppets Christmas Carol

[@christineherrmann205]

I wanted to add that this ensemble should _absolutely_ come here, to Upstate NY, to the Dickens festival in Skaneatles, because you will be universally admired. Possibly photographed a million times. Which is when you hand them a business card with your KZbin address.

[@megb9700]

When does this festival happen? I have family in Jordan and Clinton.

[@elainepeters8771]

From the day after Thanksgiving until Christmas Eve ...I'm from the area 😁

[@rburns8083]

I always feel just a little smarter after watching Nicole's videos. I mean, it's an illusion. I'm still the idiot who put her shirt on inside out this morning. But I *feel* smarter.

[@lajoyous1568]

Same 🙃

[@ragnkja]

You’re still the same, slightly absent-minded or uncoordinated person, but now you’re a little more knowledgeable.

[@rburns8083]

@@ragnkja that's very sweet of you to say. ..and also very accurate.

[@amaliaseven7]

Oh mood

[@piccalillipit9211]

You should see me wearing trousers with braces, a shirt, a jumper and needing the toilet - blind panic...

[@somethingclever8916]

I realize. Im using Nicole as ASMR Her voice is so calm and soothing. I feel so relaxed and educated on historical dress after watching her videos.

[@susanrobertson984]

She is perfect Sunday watching!!

[@rburns8083]

I was just saying the same thing today. She has a great voice to listen to as you unwind.

[@cream-ella7223]

Especially since the way her script is it doesn’t usually rely on you having to see the video so it’s almost like podcasts!! Her videos are so well made!

[@bubbles1850]

Same tho!

[@tortis6342]

I like to listen to her as I'm drawing.

[@Chibihugs]

Seeing you explain your process and how you figured out how to complete this gorgeous coat with such little information make my mind boggle at the dedication of the costumers of Muppets Christmas Carol.🤯 And you look amazing in these clothes!💙

[@TheMetatronGirl]

Wow! The coat is gorgeous. Your attention to detail and attempt at being as accurate as possible is kind of awe inspiring, particularly when we remember that this coat will barely be seen under the overcoat! I know the final look is going to be amazing, but I’m almost sad to see this beautiful coat covered up. Please don’t feel bad if it takes longer than intended for this costume to be completed. Seeing the recreation as it very likely would have looked in 1840, and human sized is so satisfying, it’s absolutely worth the wait, aside from it being an astounding amount of work. Be well, and happy holidays!

[@carolyncasner4806]

Even though the coat is barely seen under the overcoat it lends a lot to structure and layers. Layers add interest

[@Eloraurora]

Did anyone else hear Rizzo's little "Thank you for makin' me a part of this," over the end doggo footage? This is an amazingly detailed and beautiful coat.

[@robertsidelinger6936]

Now I wish all the costubers I follow each did one of the Muppets’ attire from the movie!

[@amiejo]

@pocketfullofposeys did a version of miss piggy’s costume

[@mcomeslast]

They would be cool!

[@stevezytveld6585]

The quilting in the breast area is poetically beautiful. Thank you. This is yet another video I will repeatedly be revisiting because I have a Chanel-ish style jacket in my near future and I'm happily in the middle of research. I am So in love with quilted linings right now that I'm having a serious Nerd Moment. Stunning work. Just. Stunning. - Cathy (&, accidently, Steve), Ottawa/Bytown/Pimisi

[@peter_bazinet]

I am so excited watching these videos as I'm a BIG fan of Muppet Christmas Carol. The best part is that they've found the lost widescreen footage of Belle singing "When Love Has Gone". They're re-releasing the film on blu ray next year in it's entirety. I LOVE that you're recreating the coat!

[@Magearod]

You have no idea how excited I am for this news!

[@nian60]

That's great news. I really like the film too.

[@Apledore]

SO glad to hear this! I watched it yesterday, and the lack of Belle's song was painful!

[@dulcierobertson7828]

Wow, I didn't know they lost the footage! That's such a shame, I have the DVD and it's a highlight of the movie!

[@jennarhodes2724]

That's the best thing I've ever heard, it is a Christmas miracle

[@PhilmFreak]

The content on historical menswear you’ve been creating is astounding. I’m so, so pleased to see someone putting out well-thought-out, useful information when there’s so little out there. Thank you!!

[@beckstheimpatient4135]

All that hand-stitching is just SO stunningly beautiful. Yes it's black on black, but it's barely visible in just the right way. It's wonderful.

[@bdgies2721]

I had to giggle at the thought that Gonzo's costumes were more historically accurate than many blockbuster "historical" movies.

[@Dreymasmith]

Having made men's jackets and waistcoats, watching you put the buttons on so early was a revelation. This is something I will definitely be doing in the future! Thank you for going through the process in such a detailed manner.

[@christinareynolds8179]

I'm just astounded at how quickly you complete these detailed, multi-step projects.

[@MrDoglover239]

Right?? I make these kinds of things too, and it takes me months, mainly from procrastination 😂😭

[@christinareynolds8179]

@@MrDoglover239 Distractions are a nightmare. Even now, I have all the projects and yet I'm replying to a KZbin comment. I'm fairly quick when actually sit down and do it.

[@MildredCady]

I wouldn’t put it past the designers to have looked at photos and drawings of Charles Dickens and based their costumes for gonzo on those. There are some daguerreotypes and drawings from that 1943 time frame (when he published a Christmas Carol) where he is shown wearing single breasted coats.

[@mercuryshadow5452]

In one of Abby cox’s videos we learn from the lead costumer that she just handed the sewists swatches and fashion plates - I think it’s in the comments section if you want to try to fact check me !

[@christineherrmann205]

This is a stunning cosplay, but I hope you wear these pieces in other contexts because WOW. Just WOW.

[@FlybyStardancer]

The coat ended up gorgeous, and man all those little details! I’m continuously amazed by your research abilities and attention to detail on these projects!

[@penelope-oe2vr]

Yall.... patterns of fashion 1 reprint is back and on sale! This is a place for me to share that where I know others will be excited too! Yassssss! I can't wait to get it in the mail

[@caithemburrow5569]

Thanks for this news!!!

[@maicey_t.]

How do you even begin to learn how to do this?? I have made costumes for years now but I'd be completely lost trying to make it historically accurate the way you do. This is insane. Beautiful.

[@Limonenmixgetraenk]

Ooh, pockets in the back of the coattails? I am interested! (I mean, I am the one you decided the space between the outer layer and the lining is the perfect place to transport everything from documents to zucchini to a hammer when the seam of my least favourite coat went)

[@kathleenwoods8416]

I know, its like the perfect addition to a tailcoat. Also, its a rather arduous expedition to find usable info on it aside from historical videos so double win!

[@KathrynsRavens]

What a gorgeous coat! The details on the inside are the best part, especially the quilted part. Such a great silhouette

[@bluenosesailor]

The visual effect she achieved of the deeply sloping shoulders, it's straight out of a contemporary fashion plate. Wow.

[@KathleenStidham]

On a rainy Sunday afternoon, this was the perfectd antidote to ennui (and dread of the upcoming week-before-winter break kid behaviors in my elementary school). Thank you for the lovely music in the background of your videos and the clear explanations. And thank you double for always describing and showing fabrics and techniques.

[@waterbitten]

This costume is coming together so nicely. Would please make a handsewing video, your catch stitches are so neat and nicely spaced, I would appreciate any tips you may have.

[@Apledore]

I cannot get over your dedication here. It just makes my heart sing to see something done with such care. And the finished piece is just stunning!

[@BrianA-dq7gv]

Excellent research and beautiful work. This video has just become one of my go-tos when doing tailoring from this era. I learned a great deal. And I was so happy to see you made the tailcoat face! I've noticed that everyone who makes one of these and tries it on for the first time suddenly has an urge to raise one eyebrow - including myself. It just makes one feel aristocratic :D

[@laurenarigo3894]

Sewing buddies are the best (doggies) except when your cutting table isn’t big enough and they lay and roll on the fabric while you are trying to mark and cut it out. They have the rest of the floor or even the bed or chair and they chose the fabric.

[@TealCheetah]

Wow so much work! Gonzo is coming right along! The dovetail pinking is interesting

[@shariwelch8760]

omg. The reveal of you wearing it actually brought a tear to my eye. Beautiful work. And, I really love Muppet Christmas Carol. So maybe it's the nostalgia as well. Good job, well done.

[@Rotten_Ralph]

Panteloons? Trousers? Such a question for the next episode. I would just wear that coat, then again I wear a thrifted tuxedo tailed coat. It doesn’t fit me but it’s fine. I am relishing this exploration of the costume of Gonzo in this it’s brilliant.

[@TheCorgiWoman]

This is the style for most dressage coats. So you now have a possible sideline in equitation show jackets. Of course riding breeches replace trousers.

[@lorisewsstuff1607]

Anybody else click Like as the video starts? I always know I'm going to love Nicole's videos so I just get the Like out of the way before I even watch the video.

[@dawnbuxton8204]

I think you have the patience of a saint. Patience pays off, absolutely stunning!

[@saphirephoenix1173]

I love the history that you include with your videos....I adored the Green Dye episode. I love the dark hair paired with that ravishing red on you, Miss Nicole. You pull it off well.

[@nancybridegam6903]

Everything else I want to comment on how much I love this series, I love this garnet red on you!

[@andreasiegel-salhoff4901]

As always, a master class of history and technique. I can't wait for ... Pantaloons.

[@elsa_g]

You look such a gentleman in that coat! I see what you mean about how the padding changes the shape.

[@luvnotvideos]

The amount of thought, detail, and extraordinary work you put into this is just as amazing as the final product! WOW. It boggles my mind that this was mostly hand-stitched. I cannot imagine being a seamstress working on such a garment for a mere pittance. Thank you for sharing all of this amazing work. Looking forward to the pants/trousers/pantaloons?

[@pfluorescentzebra7117]

This series is making my entire Christmas better. Thank you so much for taking the time to explain what you are doing, why, and how it is (or is not!) different from modern construction techniques. It is mesmerizing and my heart is so much happier after each and every one of your episodes.

[@kimberlyrusso2541]

All I can say is...Wow you are amazing!

[@RetroClaude]

This was honestly fascinating. I was so engrossed I had to put down my knitting!

[@Tbehartoo]

Your outfit gets better and better with each item. It's beautiful and I love it. Thanks for sharing your process with me.

[@mxheathcliff]

Wow, watching the process of this was incredible! What you're doing for original practice reconstruction of "menswear" is bringing something completely new to costube and I fully appreciate that!! 💜

[@kathmorgan3429]

Gonzo always had very dapper little outfits, someone over there had a good time designing for him and I love that.

[@Doe808eoD]

I’m loving this series! Love those phone cases too 👀 this makes me want to wear several coats at once this winter.

[@Keeperoffyre]

this coat is on point! the more i see of this outfit as you finished each piece, the more excited i get to see it all assembled together!

[@kerstinisaksson7151]

I want to be dressed like that! At least on cold days.

[@TheGFeather]

Tail pocket?!?! I wanted to see that in use at the end. I'm not sure how practical it is to use, but I love the idea of it. The coat looks amazing. Love the fabric choice and so many interesting details. Absolutely fantastic.

[@AshleyRJones8]

Check out time stamp 2:06 where she demos it during her sponsor talk...

[@TheGFeather]

@@AshleyRJones8 I had seen it, but the shot isn't framed to really show off the pocket. It's hard to get a good sense of the way it sits on the body in 3D from the construction portion. I also wonder if there issues with sitting down in it. Mostly, I just want gratuitous pocket shots!

[@AshleyRJones8]

@@TheGFeather of course that would be fun to see!

[@bruceleehace20anos17]

They may have been somewhat difficult to access but unlike the pockets on the front that should not be used, the others could be useful.

[@dismae7784]

That red top you’re wearing in the intro is so striking on you! Definitely one of your “colors” so to speak, festive and gorgeous!!

[@sArnoldsdotter]

Oooooh, it looks *so period* in all its details! 😍 Absolutely gorgeous work.

[@Hair8Metal8Karen]

Tail coats are my favourite thing in fashion! There's just something about them that I find so utterly wonderful.

[@bruceleehace20anos17]

Sadly the 1840s were the last in which they were appropriate for the day

[@ANinjasEerierEnemy]

These garments belong in an art museum.

[@loretta_3843]

You're so talented! What a beautiful item of clothing. It's crazy the amount of work that goes into a single piece of someone's wardrobe. Great work!👏👏👏

[@MDeLorien]

Wow i'm always so amazed by the amount of work on this kind of pieces 😱🖤👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻

[@terrynorton4561]

The coat open with that vest is awesome!!!!

[@BattleAxe1345]

I make late 18th century coats and my goodness, seeing all that pad stitching and layering makes my head spin.

[@SairyFairy]

Watching this makes me wish I'd pursued a career in historical dress, it's really fascinating to see the way garments were constructed, I hope to absorb some of this knowledge by watching 🤓

[@louisebacklund4485]

The skill put into this coat is absolute wizardry. I love it so much and this series makes me very happy

[@coreygilles847]

Well that was a ton of work! But it looks amazing and you look lovely in it!

[@bonniehyden962]

First, the finished coat took my breath away! ...not sure why...but it did. Looks simple...but neat and just gorgeous! Second...I wanted to see how those pockets worked! ...like, you reaching into them. I'm loving this series. As we go, I'm realizing just how much work this is for you, Nicole. Thank you... profusely!...from our hearts!...for such as this. I'm excited for the coming videos but especially when the ensemble is complete! 🤗

[@MonaSkovJensen]

Anyone else thinking "What did I just watch?", I mean, what was that 'box making, fold, not fold, cut' that happen when the tail? Skirt? half dress? was stitched together? Just me? How all this sewing turned into a coat is such a mystery to me....... It's almost magical!!!

[@lillyh3447]

I completely agree! I can do general sewing and repairs, but could not tackle all these pieces 😭

[@elisabethm9655]

OMG - the glorious attention to technique and detail…this isn’t just awesome - IT’S GONZO!

[@mandylavida]

I love watching you work. Such beautiful results!

[@katharinaaureliuschrigstro1672]

A wonderful and informative article on tayloring. Thank you

[@shalec6704]

I don’t understand why suits don’t cost $2000 because holy crap that is a LOT of work! And soooo much hand stitching. You have my respect

[@Ventura0404]

Without saying you know you do beautiful work. So wish she would teach us how to do some of this. Gorgeous gorgeous gorgeous. Talented woman

[@bernadmanny]

You forgot to put the sources of fabric in the description, I love looking at new fabrics and stores.

[@Kazuelk]

I am so thankful everytime you show your cute dog, I always have to smile when I see him ☺️

[@mollyholleran1015]

Spectacular work! I'm so glad you put this video out now because I'm working on a double breasted winter coat and wasn't sure if I wanted to put buttonholes all the way up the (beautifully padstitched) lapels. Now I feel justified in going ahead with it!

[@tinamoreland434]

I love listening to your videos while I am also sewing. It's like having a friend chatting with you as you both work. (Also, I just have to say, your voice is very soft and like warm butter. 10/10 highly recommend.)

[@Rocsanna]

Amazing work of art! Loved it!

[@ColorwaveCraftsCo]

Can’t wait for the next installment of this series! Your research and attention to detail with each element of this outfit is truly awe inspiring 🤩

[@robinsiciliano8923]

Why is this journey making me sooo emotional?!? I have no idea?!? I love this!! Beautiful! Well done, KZbin friend!!

[@k1tkat-kate]

I did not know how frock coats and great coats were different before this video!

[@making.history]

This is so amazing and generous! I know youtube wants all the project reveals but if this were spread out into 10 different 40 minute videos I would watch them all. Instead I'm just going to watch it 10 times. Please write a book. Thank you thank you thank you!

[@olgaremesow5212]

This is art! Such a gorgeous garment and you look stunning in it. Looking forward to seeing the finished ensemble! And now I want to know if all the other costumes are also historically correct or at least plausible... 😅

[@karstmama]

Olga, see Abby Cox’s video from I think last year. Short answer is Yes!

[@Skirt553]

You look VERY dapper in what you have so far.

[@carmendavila272]

I can’t believe you’ve done everything by hand! 😦

[@echoesofangrygooses]

Perfect time for an upload! Just finished watching the 2nd part and this popped up!! Yay!

[@Tati1701]

Beautiful!!! 😍 The coat, the process, the video... Just loved it!

[@Sew_Learning]

G'day Nicole, a big congratulations on this coat. I'm making a woollen tailored coat for my husband (never done before) and when I finished the pad stitching, I wanted to throw the pieces across the room. That was last winter (Summer here now) and I haven't gone back to the project since. You have a lot of go to make this coat let alone hand stitch this coat.🥰 Well done! ❤️👋👋👋 Sending best wishes from Down Under 🌺🇦🇺😎

[@taranian]

I love that garment! What a beautiful piece of construction, and the colour goes so well with the waistcoat!

[@weirdbones]

Maaaaaan, that's a lot of work, but an amazing coat! Wish something like that could come back into style so I could look so cool~

[@bruceleehace20anos17]

That doesn't have to be fashionable to wear it.

[@mercuryshadow5452]

I have a tail coat that I thrifted that has a very similar construction on the front - double breasted with extra strips on the front and faux buttonholes up the lapels. It appears to have been relined at some point in a heavy satin and some of the topstitching is by machine. I’m really excited to do some research to get a better idea of when it was made after hearing about your research!

[@sixpinkoneblue]

Perfection!

[@kam_loves_cats]

That tailcoat is so gorgeous. You did an outstanding job.. I must admit, I am very jealous 😔😔

[@hannahstraining7476]

This whole outfit is absolutely gorgeous on you!!!

[@argillaxjinana]

i love the format of your videos. i have trouble with a repetitive stress injury in my hand and arm, but i love knitting, and your videos help remind me to take stretch breaks. i knit while you talk over your plans and watch while you show the work

[@grimnirnacht]

I am so in love with this outfit. The tailcoat is a work of art 😘

[@KH-co5jv]

I am in LOVE with how much research and information you give us on this series that focuses on a Muppet movie 😂 like I’m about to start checking out your sources to use for my thesis and I can’t wait to explain this series and your channel to my advisor when he asks

[@kirstenpaff8946]

Is it weird that I want to pet the coat? It looks really soft.

[@LixiaWinter]

Will you knit a scarf by your self? I see some very skilled sewists give up on knitting and crocheting, so I'm curious🙃🙃🙃

[@knittingmoose]

Watching this come together is just making me so happy on so many levels! I love it so much!

[@lynnchappell]

I love it! It turned out great. Awesome job🥰

[@saralist1200]

Wow! The detail in this coat is amazing!! Thank you for sharing your progress with this outfit and taking your viewers on this amazing journey! You look so elegant in this outfit. :)

[@johnshepard629]

Nicole, you look GORGEOUS in that red blouse!!! Chefs kiss to you and Merry Christmas!!!

[@Art_911]

Wow! Amazing. So much work and detail. I am doing a similar coat for an animation I want to do of Louis Carrol's Jabberwocky (a s;lightly later style but very similar). And decided to go for this style of coat. I am using Marvelous designer to do so, and while one easily can fudge the pattern, it's still based on these principles. It is wonderful to see you create this and pick up the techniques and information.

[@michellecornum5856]

The amount of research that goes into these things is AMAZING!

[@Mamaki1987]

This coat looks so beautiful it makes me wonder if you could get away with wearing it when you got an invitation calling for the dress coat "morning dress".

[@heatherkemp1846]

Beautiful sewing as usual. How is your little dog I saw it was limping. Please give it lots of love and hugs x

[@NicoleRudolph]

She's had a limp for about 7 years now- small injury that she refused to walk straight after and seems stuck with it now (we've tried a lot of things to help but it doesn't seem to bother her)

[@heatherkemp1846]

@@NicoleRudolph I'm glad she is OK, if it's OK I will send her some reiki. Best wishes x