Hailey Ruffled Up Jacket: A Lined, Ruffled Jacket I Sew

I had been eyeing the Hailey Ruffled Up Jacket (pattern no longer available for purchase) for quite a while, and I finally got around to making it. Lately my little one has been picky about clothing, but she immediately loved this jacket — especially the fabrics I chose. Sewing it felt rewarding from start to finish: the finished piece is both practical and delightfully feminine.

For the outer fabric I used a silky synthetic that gives a soft sheen and a smooth hand. The lining is a beautiful Japanese cotton that adds contrast and structure without bulk. I like fully lined jackets for children because they feel more polished and are comfortable to wear; the lining also helps the jacket slide on and off easily over layers.

The pattern instructions were clear and well organized, following the high standard I expect from Peekaboo Patterns. Construction flowed smoothly: the pieces matched up, the steps were logical, and finishing details came together without guesswork. Because the jacket is fully lined, seams are tidy and the inside looks almost as nice as the outside — a small detail that makes a big difference in the final garment.

The ruffle treatment is what makes this jacket special. The ruffles are constructed to allow just a little bit of fray and movement without becoming bulky or stiff. They hold a flattering curve around the neckline and trace down to the hem in a way that frames the face rather than overwhelming it. Because the ruffle is narrow, it doesn’t flop awkwardly or rub against the child’s neck — it stays neatly in place and looks intentionally designed.

There was one small lesson learned: I need to be more mindful of seam placement when attaching the ruffle. On this version I ended up with a seam that lands right under the chin. It’s not a major flaw and the jacket still looks lovely, but next time I’ll adjust my layout so any ruffle seams fall to the side or back where they’re less visible. That kind of small alignment detail is easy to fix with a bit more planning during cutting and basting.

Overall fit was comfortable for my child: roomy enough for a sweater underneath without looking oversized. The lining adds structure so the jacket hangs nicely, and the choice of fabrics created a good balance between drape and shape. If you’re considering sewing a similar style, a lightweight woven for the outer fabric combined with a crisp cotton lining will give the same polished effect without adding weight.

In summary, the Hailey Ruffled Up Jacket is a charming project that yields an elegant, wearable jacket. It’s a great pattern for sewists who want a statement ruffle without excessive bulk, and the fully lined construction elevates the final garment. I’ll sew this design again with only minor adjustments to seam placement, and I expect it will become a favorite for gift-making or special outfits for little ones.