A fun new twist on the Paola Workwear Jacket is exactly what we wanted! I adore this pattern and I’m starting to lose count on how many of them I have made. The pattern is so versatile of a shape and so easy to switch up the look in interesting ways with various fabrics, patterns, textures, pocket changes, length alterations and more. This time, we went for a change on the closures. We wanted a denim jacket with bows. Bows are having a moment in fashion and home decor once again and we are here for it. Denim bows aren’t difficult. Let’s jump in and see how I made them.

Step 1: We found an 8 oz medium indigo denim 100% cotton. As always, I suggest you wash and dry your fabric before starting the sewing project. Depending on what type of denim you buy, you can expect at least 3-10% shrinkage on the first laundering. You definitely don’t want to experience fabric shrinking later. This is your inspo for the finished bows – let’s get started.

Step 2: The secret is to get the denim bows as thin as possible so I started by cutting 2 inch strips the full width of the denim. You will need three 2×30 inch strips for each of your bows.

Step 3: Ironing before sewing. I used the same shape as a double fold bias tape and the raw edges are pointed to the center of the strip and then folded once more. Iron them well and pin in place if needed.

Step 4: Sew. You simply sew down the edge to hold in place and you have the strips for the bows. *You could make 6 shorter strips (2×15 inches) and use them as the actual closures for the jacket. For the style we chose to use you’ll need the three.

Step 5: Tie the bows. You could sew them on either side of the front of the jacket and then use them as closures but we chose this option so there weren’t ties hanging down without purpose when you want the jacket to be left open. Tie 3 neat little bows and you’ll be ready to hand or machine stitch them onto the jacket. Featured here are the type of clasps that we chose to hold the jacket shut.

Step 6: Hand sew in the hidden clasps. The “sew on” bar closures worked great for a detail that doesn’t stand out when the jacket is open.

This is a great project to work on when you live in a cold climate and you’re dreaming of a spring day when you’ll be able to step outside with a light weight jacket! Enjoy.