This is a very simple uniform to make.
The original fabric is "Wool Gaberdine". You can get this at most fabric stores. It will cost a little more, but it is worth it. Of course, you will determine the division color, and you will need lots of black.
JACKET:
Use your pattern and lay all the pieces out. Remember, this uniform is very form fitting, so, if you think your a small but your really a large, be honest with yourself. Nobody wants to see a Starfleet officer in a uniform that looks like a repair man with his crack showing as he/she bends over. OK?
Start sewing the pieces together as the pattern calls for. When you get to the collar, instead of using your divisional fabric around the piping, try to find cord trimming, it's more authentic. You'll have to match the color, so take a swatch of fabric with you.
The zipper is the hardest part of this uniform. It is a jacket zipper sewn upside down. It should zip from the top of the uniform down to the bottom. This is the reason they created that great little flap that attaches to the waist band.
You will need hook and eye closures to attach the collar. The zipper starts just below the collar. Attach black snaps ( like the ones used on the "Wrath of Khan uniform" )to the flap around the wast band. Did I mention that your waist band should be made of high quality thick spandex turned inside out?
All you need now is your rank pips and communicator. You're set. You can sew a pocket into the lining of the jacket for the magneticsound board, and velcro your communicator to the jacket. It works better than trying to just use the magnet. The damn thing will be at your stomach before the convention is over.
PANTS:
You will use the same fabric. Make sure the hidden zipper is in the back. You'll want to split the front before hemming, so cut a little bit longer. With the pants turned inside out, cut up the center front of the pant leg 4" and turn up. Sew along the cut edges. When you turn the pants to the right side, you will get that open area at the bottem. NOTE: you must measure to where you want the pant leg to end, then add 4" to be turned under.
NOTE: If you decide to use the pocket trick with the communicator, before you do anything, you must paint the communicator. I think these talking communicators are great!! But the originals are not shiny. Buy model paint and paint over.
Also, the pants are suposed to be a little high waisted, so, because you will be wearing the jacket, wear suspenders. Also sew elastic sturups to the bottom so the pants will maintain that straight look.
