There’s something undeniably appealing about high-quality faux leather. It brings a touch of glam to any look, yet remains incredibly versatile—ideal for everything from fashion-forward garments to stylish accessories.

Often referred to as vegan leather or pleather, this material is a synthetic, petroleum-based alternative to traditional leather. It offers many of the same benefits—durability, texture, and a luxurious appearance—at a more affordable price point. The stretch faux leather I used comes from Minerva’s Core Range. It’s soft, has a beautiful drape, and is water-resistant—making it as functional as it is fashionable.

This fabric features a horizontal stretch of about 30%, while staying firm along its length. The reverse side is finished with a smooth knit backing, making it a great option for unlined designs. The color I chose is labeled “brown,” though it leans toward a rich, deep maroon—perfect for adding warmth and depth to wardrobe basics.

Originally, I had planned to turn this fabric into a dramatic trench coat. I figured the water-resistant properties would make it a perfect candidate for outerwear. But once it arrived, I realized how fluid and soft it was—better suited to something more relaxed and less structured.

That’s when I turned to a favorite: the Luz pattern from Fibre Mood. Luz is a cozy, draped cardigan-style design that can be worn belted or open. It includes a folded-over neckline that mimics the clean lines of a tailored piece, yet it’s completely unlined thanks to the built-in facing. The cut-on sleeves and cleverly integrated pocket design make it both stylish and practical. For a polished finish, I added bias binding around the pockets and seams—a small detail that makes a big impact, especially when the garment is worn open.

What I love about the Luz is its versatility. Though it’s designed for knits, it works well with stable wovens like faux leather—just size up slightly for ease of movement through the shoulders. The sleeves can also be left off entirely, transforming the piece into a sleek longline vest. Simply finish the armholes with bias binding or a neat rolled hem, and you’ve got an instant layering staple.

I’m genuinely thrilled with how this faux leather Luz turned out. It feels luxurious yet practical—it’s wind-resistant, rain-resistant, and surprisingly light. I can throw it over just about anything and instantly elevate the look. The subtle stretch in the fabric makes it super comfortable for all-day wear, including travel. It’s an ideal layering piece for plane rides or packing for cooler destinations, offering warmth without bulk.

Best of all, it looks elegant and travels well—an unbeatable combo in any handmade wardrobe.

Now, I can’t stop thinking about a full-length version in some vintage mohair I’ve been saving… I might just pull it out before this pattern finds its way back into storage.

Because, truly—there is Sew Much to Design.