Princess Leia – Star Wars (Bespin Escape Jumpsuit)

Made for: Shadowcon 2006

Background: Originally I was going to make Hoth Leia for Shadowcon, but ended up not having time to even start on the vest or boots. I decided to not try to push it, and to just wear the jumpsuit. I eventually finished the Hoth pieces later in the year.

Journal Entries: Read more at my Hoth Leia tag

Patterns Used: KwikSew 2722 (I think)

Jumpsuit: I used a bodysuit pattern, meant for stretchy spandex material. I compensated by cutting the pieces too large, and then took it in as needed. The whole suit is lined in cotton, and zips up the front. The collar was made without a pattern and attached, and each of the quilted patches I made separately and sewed on. The patches are layers of cotton, my jumpsuit material, and batting, sewn together with piped edges and decorative stitching. They went together quick and I was really pleased with how they came out. The belt was made of the same material as the suit with stitching.

I always had trouble with the fit of this, likely due to using a pattern meant for stretch fabric. The biggest issue was always the collar – I couldn’t bend over, sit down or do much of anything without the collar choking me. In 2015, I cut the entire back panel out (from the waistline to just below the shoulders) and inserted a panel of stretch knit I had on hand. This helped release the tension a bit, but it’s still not perfect – and I also can’t wear it as Bespin Escape anymore with a big non-matching square of fabric on the back. (It’s hidden when I wear it with the Hoth vest) Eventually I’ll totally remake this costume from the ground up, and fix this issue once and for all.

Accessories: The boots I already had. The hairstyle is done with my ANH Leia hair pieces, just obviously worn differently!

History: In October 2006 I completed my Hoth vest and boots, so it has since been Hoth Leia.

                       

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