How To Make Or Buy A Captain Jack Sparrow Vest / Waistcoat

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Pirates Of The Caribbean Costume For Johnny Depp Character
'The Curse of the Black Pearl' & 'Dead Man's Chest'

HISTORICAL BACKGROUND

Jack Sparrow's waistcoat (or vest) is a bit unusual. The front is a dark, purplish-blue that comes to the upper thigh. The back, however, is a light brown fabric with faint vertical stripes, and ends just below the waist. Most early to mid 18th century waistcoats had a single length. This is reflected in the vests and patterns below, so costuming purists will have to make alterations.

REFERENCE PHOTOS

Waistcoat front

Waistcoat back

FOR SALE

Waistcoats tend to be expensive, in part because they must be tailored. Here's the best reproductions we've found:

A Stitch In Time

Jas Townsend & Son

C & D Jarnagin Company F & I Uniforms (scroll down)

The Crew Of The Painted Lady

Audrey Carol (scroll down to "Weskit")

MAKE YOUR OWN

The cheapest and fastest way to make your own waistcoat is to find a dress at the thrift store and convert it. Brass and pewter-looking buttons can be found on mens blazers. If you have no luck in the dress section, try the ladies' short-sleeved shirt, vest and uniform areas.

Do you have fabric, but no money? This page may be of help to you.

Patterns:

Dixie Gun Works

Tailor's Guide (scroll down)

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