Would this be a useful garment *new photo*

[0ldmare]

I'm posting this on behalf of a friend and would really like some feedback

First thing to say is its just a snap!! Its been taken using the self timer on a camera and is not flattering. But it does give an idea of what the gilet looks like

The reason I'm asking you is that its been designed with the equestrian market in mind. Do you like the design? Is there anything you would change?

It will come in other colours, so ignore that if you can

Its made out of real sheepskin. Its warm enough to wear on its own in Autumn/Spring or you could lob a coat over the top.

The one photographed is made out of really ultra fine sheepskin. If you imagine the entire gilet probably weighs no more than your daily newspaper you will get the idea. But it is warm



Thank you!

[Louise Dixon]

I think it looks lovely and cosy, but I don't think I would want to wear it for doing anything horsey as it would get smelly and I am not sure how you would clean it.

[GinaGeo]

As Mowhaugh said I'd be worried about ruining wit horses! I'd also be more likely to be buy it if it was more fitted or had a belt perhaps! But a fab idea!

[0ldmare]

Thank you!

I'll ask him if its machine washable and if he doesn't know will suggest he tries washing it a couple of dozen times to finds out (Afterall sheepskin numnahs get washed so why not a gilet!)

Also interesting re the more fitted look. I think he is playing with a revised version which may be more shaped. I have to say this one is seriously comfy to wear (you don't know you've got it on), but if he can acheive a more fitted look without losing the comfort so much the better. Maybe a belt is an idea!

[jilly]

i think it looks really good, personally dont like belts or fitted gilets, i would find this most comfortable. only thing i would change is that i would like a zip that opened at both ends.

[starsandstripes]

It looks excellent! Personally I prefer a gilet to be more fitted like said above, maybe using a belt or just a more fitted design, but I think that he'll find people rather want one fitted or they don't, there will probably be very split opinions. A zip that opened at both ends is a good idea when targeting an equestrian market as it makes it more comfortable when riding.
It looks very warm and comfy, best of luck to him.

[jennifermelvin]

A zippered breast pocket (internal or external) for mobile phones/keys, etc.!!

[auntiebarb]

It looks lovely. Tell him there are Shire horse types as well as tb and shetland types to fit.

I get fed up when shopping as everything is made for model figures but nothing for us larger ladies. M&S never ever have anything to fit me, so forget Joules etc. This has been the story of my life. If I ever opened a business it would be for larger ladies, there are millions of us with money but nothing to buy. There is nothing in the larger size shops for sporty types either.

I would love to be a tb, but was born to be a cob!!!

[0ldmare]

Thanks so much for the input, I've passed it all on to him

Seems most would like a more fitted jacket and so here is another sample. This is a LARGE size (16 or 18) so could only photograph it lying flat on the ground so its not a flattering photo! But do you think this is a better general shape?

Point taken about 2-way zip and also hidden/zipper pocket for mobile and keys

(PS. Ignore the colour, its just a sample!)

[holmedown]

looks good - but definite 2-way zip

[brindlerainbow]

I like it too . I wouldn't mind if it wasn't fitted as I prefer room to move!! Would prefer slightly deeper pockets. I actually like that colour

[viking]

Wow! Smart and useful. Loved both designs and colours.

[GinaGeo]

Yes I like that Looks toasty warm ;D

[suzee]

Square pockets might be better,not so easy for stuff to fall out.

[jennywren]

Great idea! It looks smart and soooo snug!!

[clarasdream]

looks soooo warm! definately agree wuth suzee though,not keen on the shape of the pockets for practicality x