Introducing the Delma Cape from the Special No. 3 Fibre Mood pattern release.

The Delma Cape, part of Fibre Mood’s Special No. 3 release, is an eye-catching, short cape that combines style, function, and timeless design. It brings a playful edge to outerwear while staying rooted in the elegance of classic trench coat tailoring. This standout piece is just one of 15 beautifully crafted patterns from the collection, all designed to breathe life and glamour into your wardrobe across seasons.

For my version, I chose a truly meaningful fabric—an “Elephant Grey” ultra suede gifted to me by a close friend. It came with a story: folded neatly with its original tag still attached, this fabric was discovered among her late mother’s keepsakes. Originally sold in Hilde’s Originals, a high-fashion boutique in downtown Montreal owned by her grandmother, this ultra suede carries memories of trips to Milan and Switzerland in search of fine textiles. During the 1960s and ’70s, ultra suede surged in popularity, largely thanks to Halston’s iconic shirt dresses—and this piece of fabric is a beautiful remnant of that fashionable era.

While I originally envisioned making a longer garment, the limited yardage inspired a creative pivot—and Delma turned out to be the perfect fit. This pattern offered just the right canvas to honor the heritage of the fabric. I finished it off with vintage tone-on-tone buttons from Hilde’s original shop and included a nostalgic label from her collection inside the garment—a quiet tribute to the legacy of women’s fashion. I like to think both Hilde and Halston would be proud.

The Delma design pulls inspiration from classic trench details, including a cleverly constructed storm flap across the front. Beyond its practical purpose of blocking out rain, it adds a sleek, structured line to the garment’s silhouette. The back echoes this functionality with a wide pleated yoke flap that boosts both protection and mobility. To keep the back flap from flying open in gusty weather, a button tab underneath provides a tidy solution rooted in traditional tailoring.

I opted for the traditional collar—often called a Napoleon collar—that lays flat and opens up into lapels when unbuttoned. There’s also an optional hood, which I imagine would look stunning in cozy fabrics like fleece or French terry. Perfect for chilly fall outings or breezy summer nights, the hooded version adds another layer of comfort and style.

Classic tab closures at the sides complete the look, nodding once more to the trench-coat influence. They’re not just decorative—they’re essential to the Delma’s refined, structured shape.

When selecting fabric for a cape, the underside matters. Since capes reveal glimpses of the reverse as they move, you’ll want a fabric that looks good on both sides. That’s another reason why ultra suede worked so well—it’s beautiful inside and out, creating a seamless, polished effect.

Sewing the Delma was not only a creative joy but also a deeply personal journey. It’s one of those rare garments that feels both nostalgic and modern—a versatile piece that layers effortlessly and elevates everyday outfits. I know I’ll wear it for years to come, styling it in different ways for different seasons, and it’ll always carry the story of where it came from.

Fashion may evolve, but some pieces—like Delma—stand the test of time. After all…
There is Sew Much To Design.