I have that Simplicity Pattern, and just finished putting the coat together. It's in gray wool I bought for a song at a local fabric warehouse.
(Those of you near New Jersey, if you are interested, I can send you an address...amazing stuff at like half the price!)
In wool, the coat came out very heavy, but it does have some nice swing to it. I was annoyed at the lack of lining too, but decided to skip cutting one for two reasons...1) to save on the weight (its already godawful heavy!) 2) to save on expense. (even cut rate fabric adds up when you need 6 yards!)
The sleeves were a bear, but I think it was more due to the weight of the fabric I used. I will use Cotton Duck or Canvas next time (then age it all with a spray of peroxide)
I am kind of sorry I didn't make real pockets right now, and may try to go backwards and install them. Suggestions?
I took all the trim I put on off, as I hated what I had. I am going to start over after the fact. Any suggestions for trim on a gray wool coat? I had black originally...its supposed to look more utilitarian than ornate.
Also, the weight of the gorget pleats in back is pulling the coat off my man's back... He wants to wear it open. Suggestions? (I threatened saftey pins secreted inside the shoulders)