The Acmon Blue Coat
This hand-quilted linen coat was a gift for my mother who has been sharing her love and knowledge of nature with me since the day I was born. I spent my childhood outdoors with her, making fairy houses, collecting bugs, and learning the names of our native plants.This garment is an homage to her favorite California butterfly, the Acmon Blue, as well as a celebration of her journey as an ecologist.
The dark blue represents the dorsal side of the wings and features large pockets for holding binoculars, sketchbooks, and snacks.
The light blue represents the ventral side of the wings and features more decorative elements for dressier occasions.
Full view of the back in comparison to the wings of the Acmon Blue. I tried to be as accurate as possible with the shape and placement of the black spots.
Close up of the wing markings made from vintage silk scraps. The striped binding is inspired by the markings on the butterfly’s antennae.
Demonstration of the invisible closure I designed by placing tiny magnets inside the binding. There are two sets- one at the top of the pocket and one at the neckline.
My mother modeling the coat with my well-coordinated cat, Ziggy.
