Burda 2471 Men's Regency era pattern AKA Napoleon pattern

It was time for the Washington Regency Society (WRS) 12th night ball! I asked my youngest if he would be interested in attending with me. He had joined me for the WRS picnic last summer and had a great time. I knew if he was going to go he would need something to wear. My dilemma, he is 14 and still growing. I started out looking at the Laughing Moon patterns but I didn't want to go that in depth for a costume that won't fit him in 6 months. I landed on Burda 2471. I had used the vest pattern last year for the WRS picnic. The cut and fit were really good. After getting his measurements I realized I needed to go up to the next size on the vest because he had grown again since summer!! The only part of Burda 2471 I wasn't interested in were the breeches. They are a very modern tight cut and require fabric with some stretch. Lol. My son took one look at the picture of Napoleon's tight white disco hot pants on the pattern envelope and said yeah, no.

So what pattern did I use for his breeches? Simplicity 4923 to the rescue! The whole pattern is fantastic. I made the entire suit for my husband a couple years ago and it turned out great. If you are looking for a basic no frills pair of drop front breeches Simplicity 4923 is perfect.

Let's go!

Size and fabric:

I decided on the size 38 chest. His chest measures 37 so I checked the finished measurements and knew the 38 would work. Do yourself a favor and make the breeches and vest first. My son uses a tux shirt for costuming. Once I got done with the vest and breeches he tried all components on and I measured him again before jumping the gun on his jacket.

I wanted the costume to be washable if needed. I used red canvas for the jacket and navy brushed twill for his vest, breeches and all the contrast on the jacket.

Alterations:
None.

Construction:
This went together really easily. Just follow the directions and you should have no issues. Be aware that Burda patterns are a bit different from the Big 4.

End result:
I'm very pleased! My son looked quite dashing and he enjoyed both wearing his costume and attending the ball.

Side note:
The sleeve cap has too much ease. I had to pleat mine because the fabric was too thick to ease/gather. I also heard this from another costumer so I know it's not just me.

 Looking quite the young gent!

He spent the evening learning to play cards.