I am excited to have been asked to share a booth with my friends Bruce and Susan from Dynotunes in Burlington, Ont

(Susan and I have some exciting things for women Motorcycle riders for the upcoming season… we will share with you soon)

This show is a bit different as they have added the Tattoo aspect. I have decided to mix it up a bit as well! Not only will I have motorcycle leathers, and half chaps….and taking your custom orders.

I will have my fashion lamb leather jackets as well a few samples of a great jean line from Texas!

 My F’N Jeans from Texas

Sky Blue Lamb Jacket....one of the designs available this weekend

And to not forget the men…I have Lil Joe’s Leather vests….I love this product….these are the vests seen on the Son’s of Anarchy. I have up to 3XL in stock….come by and see us and save on the shipping. If we have to order your size, I will send it to you and pay your shipping costs!

Looks like the show will have tons to see, and much to do…shop for you, your bike… there is a motorcycle auction, custom contests….you can even get a tattoo at the show!

Stop in and see Rob and I and Lissa Hill Leathers to see and try the Lil Joe’s vests, and pick up some limited edition spring fashion jackets (only $150 !!!) Order your custom leathers and pick up a pair of the coveted Lissa Hill Leather half  chaps

Susan and Bruce and the guys at Dynotunes  will get your bike in perfect tune for the season!

Looking forward to seeing you!

We are working together designing and creating riding leathers that match their personality, body type, motorcycle…whatever their heart desires! I am working with snake prints, shades of purple, subtle accents of pink…studding and appliques.

Snakeskin Heart and Cross Applique for Leather Riding Pants

Yesterday I met with four women, all in different stages of their custom leather process. Their excitement inspired me to share the process from concept to the second fitting stage.

I chose my client Sally, as she fits all the criteria for custom clothing. She wanted riding leathers that are different and feminine. Combined with being petite with a full bust line, off the rack was not going to cut it for Sally’s figure. Our starting point was Sally’s bike….beautiful silver Honda Shadow with flame detail.

Sally's Honda Shadow

During our initial consultation we spoke about her everyday wardrobe, the style of clothing she is comfortable in and how she likes to look. I created a working sketch for myself ( I will always be a paper and pencil designer) from the sketch patterns drafted and her muslin (cotton) fitting.

We are working with a black 5oz cow leather with beautiful silver accents (to match the flame on her tank) in the expanders at the back of  her jacket, zipper insets and pockets. Sally has chosen the knee length half chaps (which are perfect for her petite frame)

Sally's Sketch and Matching Half Chaps

The jacket has the visual  effect of a corset and empire waist seaming to flatter her figure. The correct fit ensures that she is comfortable while riding…looking great too!

Back View

The white markings on the front show where the outside pockets will be. A tip for pockets on motorcycle jackets…make sure the zipper heads are at the bottom so they do not come open from the vibration of your bike.

Front View

The next fitting for Sally will have the zipper in, the pockets, black on black flame detail on the elbows (will look great and added protection) collar applied and her lining in.

Four fitting and she has the perfect lifetime jacket, and half chaps that are unique to Sally!

This is why I LOVE what I do!!!

I have been buying most of  my leather from a supplier Toronto since I was a fashion design student. Perfect Leather is the most amazing place, shelves and shelves full of leathers. The smell is incredible! There is every colour imaginable, prints, metallics, furs and exotic snake skins.

Inside Perfect Leather

I am so inspired here! When I tell you you can have any colour…this is what I mean! Once I select the type of  leather I need, I hand pick the best skins out of a bundle. Leather is sold by the square foot and each skin is a different size. Perfect Leather carries leather from all over the world, different price points and different brands. They also have sheepskin, Mongolian Lamb and cow skin rugs (for interior design)

Sheepskin, Mongolian Lamb and the rugs

Back in the studio I lay the leather out on my cutting table, using my patterns trace out the pieces on the skin using a china marker. I use the strongest parts of the skin for the parts of the garment that will have the most stress. For example the back of the jacket would be cut along the spin area of the leather…..softer are for under the arms.

Half Chap Pattern Laid Out

I cut the whole pattern at once so that there is very little waste. I use a walking foot machine to stitch the leather….I love my machines like I love my car and my motorcycle! This sewing machine is great and can sew through even the toughest leather! Even the occasional thumb…but I will save that for another post!

Topstitching Half Chaps

I wanted to share a bit of my construction process with you, so you know what goes into a quality custom leather garment. It is a thrill for me when I am out riding or at an event to see my clients wearing their Lissa Hill Leather pieces as they are truly made from passion.

Robin from NWT in her Lissa Hill Leather Half Chaps

Thank you!

Knee Length Half Chaps With Side Zipper

How should my Half Chaps Fit?

Your Motorcycle Half Chaps should fit snugly over your boot and jeans. They have room for movement at your knee, for a comfortable feel when you are riding with your knee bent.

What is the best way to wear Half Chaps?

It is your choice how you want to wear them…over jeans, over leather, over a full boot for added protection.

Many of my clients wear them over Capri Pants in the summer months, and just remove the half chaps when they arrive at their destination..so easy to roll up and put in you saddle bags!

I suggest wearing over a basic jean (not too much flare in the bottom)

Suggested cut of jean leg and ankle boot

Where on my leg do I measure?

For the best fit for your Motorcycle Half Chaps I require 4 measurements. The fullest part of your calf, your knee, around your ankle and your leg length from ankle bone to knee.

All of your leg measurements have to be taken over your jeans and boots. If you are wanting to wear your Half Chaps with Capri pants you must measure with out your jeans on your bare calf. (my half chaps are fully lined and are totally comfortable with Capris and not concern of leather dye transfer on your skin)

If you want to wear them over a taller boot, measure over the boot on your leg.

Correct position to measure on your ankle over your boot

Any more questions, just email lissa@lissahill.com or call the studio at (905) 528-4478

Borrowing Rob's Shadow, Wearing Knee Length Half Chaps

Fashion or Safety? Why not Both? We are women, we ride motorcycles…we can have it all!

I am still getting questions about my half chaps…many people at the Motorcycle Shows have never seen them and are curious as to their function.

What is the point?

Not only do these motorcycle half chaps look hot, they protect you from the road with kick ass style! Added protection on your shins and knees keeping you warm, protect you from road spray, rock and bugs. A great option to the full chaps in warm weather or climates…or if full chaps are not for you. I have both, and love the added protection in the heat of summer, without the full layer of chaps.

Thigh High Half Chaps With Red Stitching

When riding your knee is protected from wind, road debris and rain. The Thigh High cut is 4″ above your knee creating a shield effect when your knee is bent. The back zipper ends just below your knee, so you are comfortable when riding. Soft 5oz leather is comfortable yet durable and can handle what the road throws at it.

Close Up Of Knee Bent (note the red stitching matches the pin striping!!)

How do they stay up?

Lissa Hill Leather half chaps are cut to the shape of your calf and ankle. They fit snugly over your boot at the ankle and your calf with room and ease at your knee. Check my measurement chart here.

http://www.lissahill.com/accessories/half-chaps/

Heading Out For a Ride in My Thigh High Half Chaps

Choosing the Thigh High or Knee High Half Chaps they are an added layer of protection over your jeans or leather riding pants. They also protect you skin, boots and jeans from the heat of your bike…rider or passenger.

I am happy to answer any other questions or concerns you may have about Motorcycle Half Chaps.

lissa@lissahill.com

The booth was decked out in red and black, and the smell of leather! On Friday we sold almost ALL of our half chaps!!!

The booth on Sunday...a very tired me and little stock left...half chaps went like crazy!!!

Rob even sold his Lil Joe’s Leather Outlaw vest, right off his back! These are the vests that are seen on Son’s of Anarchy…amazing quality, lifetime guarantee. This vest is a perfect addition to Lissa Hill Leather!!!

Lil Joe's Leather Son's of Anarchy Vest

We met so many amazing people, a few crazy folks dresses up in their Christmas best too…horns and all! Even some tacky Christmas Sweaters….on men!!! Bikers even! Sorry no pictures of that…could not do it! Lots of laughs!

Rob and I both took the time to look around and drool over our dream bikes….mine is still the Indian Motorcycle  Dark Horse, and Rob has fallen in love with the Harley Davidson Street Glide..black of course!

The Indian Motorcycle Dark Horse

Rob's Harley Davidson Street Glide

I also had a chance to sit on the bike that started my passion as a teen…the Yamaha VMax….still love it, has an amazing Mad Max look to it…only I cannot stand flat foot with this bike.

The VMax

It was a fabulous weekend, and a fabulous show! Thank you to everyone that helped to make it happen and Rob for all his hard work, sense of humor, and natural ease with people….and knowing when to feed me!

Looking forward to an awesome season of leathering up men and women riders in 2012!!!

I traveled to Michigan late last week, stopping to meet with clients with my final destination to meet with THE Rebel Girl, Cher Bell and her American Rebel, Joe.

Once again I was welcomed into their home, like family, and Drifter (the dog) even seemed happy to share his bed this time! Perfect timing on my part to arrive on Romeo bike night, again!

Cher Bell and Joe Young

I was excited to see the new shop/showroom for Rebel Girl.Since my last visit so much has happened, new designs, new ideas and new products.The leather corsets that Cher was working on during my last visit were perfected and manufactured in time for Sturgis. Joe told me that almost every woman that tried them on purchased one of these beauties.

Rebel Girl Leather Corsets

I had the pleasure of meeting the newest Rebel Girl team member,Stacey. Stacey is an incredibly interesting woman who is a stewardess, body builder and designer. She is doing some awesome design work with denim jackets, exotic skins, studs and stones!

Not only did I come away from this visit with knowledge, inspiration and a lot of laughs…(mostly at my expense…thanks for mocking my Canadianisms…Joe!!!) I am very excited to say I am now a rep for Rebel Girl!

The Rebel Girl line, it is unique in it’s look, great artwork and fabric treatments. The fit is great for motorcycle riding, long in the body and sleeves.Feminine details like scoop necks, deep V’s and crystals.

The Rebel Girl line marries beautifully with Lissa Hill Motorcycle Leather as Cher definitely considers Fit, Fashion and Function when designing her pieces. Totally Rock and Roll! Awesome leather cuffs and belts for 2012…all made in America, not overseas.

a taste of the Rebel Girl tops

Thank you to Cher and Joe for welcoming me to the team. I am thrilled to bring the Motor City to the Steel City!!!

Please come by the studio to see the line. I will be letting everyone know what stores will be carrying Rebel Girl.

Thanks again Cher and Joe…and to Drifter too!

Look forward to my next visit…I promise it will be longer…I think it might be sooner than later…I am out of chips

As the summer slowly turns to fall, it is time to have fun with your favorite summer pieces layered with fall jackets. The leather jacket as part of your outfit instead of covering it! We spend so many months in Canada all bundled up under winter coats…now is the time to enjoy fun leather jackets.

Printed Silk Chiffon tops...add a leather belt accent!

Throw on a Leather Jacket

Caramel Apple Leather with Sage Green Cropped Style

My fall ready to wear jackets are in buttery soft leather in yummy fall food inspired shades… Paprika, Carmel Apple, Plum, Red Pepper, Black Licorice….also shades of green and mocha.

Styles are cropped to biker inspired…even a nod to the 80′s…blazer styles that will be perfect at the office all in great colours.

Perfect for the Office

Paprika Blazer with Floral Silk Top

My Lissa Label Trunk shows were such a success in the Spring that we are doing them for the Fall! (a Trunk Show is a preview of a designers upcoming season)I am offering my Lissa Label jackets at wholesale pricing.

I have added silk tops that are one of a kind or limited runs in hand picked colours to match the leathers. I also am thrilled to have one of a kind denim pieces hand painted by Hamilton, artist Sue Upton. Once her pieces are gone…that is it!

When you book a trunk party you can have it at a location of your choice or in my Hamilton studio. I will present the styles the best way to incorporate them into your wardrobe and how to wear leather jackets not just as outer wear.

A fun option is for your guests to bring their favorite tops or out fits and I will offer style tips on how to bring fashion leather into their wardrobe.

Wow Your Wardrobe With Colour

Red Pepper Leather

With every sale the hostess earns Leather Loonies with can go toward your own jacket order or I will donate the amount to the charity of your choice. All jackets are wholesale priced from $110.00 to $250 (10%) of every sale goes to the hostess. sizes xs to xxl

book a date email lissa@lissahill.com or call the studio (905)528-4478

A few years ago I transplanted salmon poppies from my mother’s garden, it has taken a couple years for them to get established…but they are now in their glory! The colour is amazing and their petals are like delicate chiffon.

I am blessed to be great friends with amazing photographer Kevin Thom. Kevin has an incredible talent for taking your verbal vision and creating a beautiful piece of art expressing it. With the Salmon Poppy, he actually made it look as though it has a personality. He captured the beautiful fabric like quality of the bud.

http://www.kevinthom.com/

http://www.kevinthom.com/

I love the contrast of leather and silk. I found a  pearlized lamb leather in a soft salmon shade for the jacket and pants, and after much searching found the perfect silk chiffon for the Poppy inspired top.

I used the draping process for the top. I cut the silk on the bias, to create folds and draping similar to the flower.I used steam to keep the pleats tight like the opening bloom.

The leather jacket and pants I created from a flat drafted pattern.

Jacket in process

The leather pieces have a retro feel to them with raw edge seams with covered snaps. The silk chiffon top is flowing, pretty and fresh…just like the Poppy that was the inspiration, I love the contrast of leather and silk!

The final Poppy Inspired leather and chiffon

Despite the warmth we still have the danger of road debris, bugs….which at even at 30 km a month can feel like a sledge hammer….and of course the danger of coming off our bikes.

We have all seen the riders with shorts and flip flops on and as a teenager before I started riding I first hand “felt” the danger of wearing flip flops….I had a boyfriend that had a wonderful VMax…I, as a new passenger, shifted my weight at a stop and we landed on the pavement because his flip flop fell off…not so cool! To wear protective footwear seems obvious…yet we all see them out there. Boots with proper soles are key, soles that will not slip in  oil or grease and a foot and shaft that will protect your foot and ankle.

There are industry guidelines for fabrics and leathers and road abrasion rates. The tests were done using a belt sander and a hammer to mimic a fall off a moving motorcycle, to calculate the wear through distance in a slide. The standard recommendation is 3oz leather for riding clothes which gives you a sliding distance of 86′, Denim 3′ (this is 100% cotton denim) I use 5oz leather in my basic riding pieces….my father even test crashed a jacket for me….no damage to him and scuffing on the leather….that is family support. Thanks Dad!

Woman's cross over jacket in 5oz leather

Part of motorcycle riding is being prepared for the worst, from your skills, maintenance of your bike and what you wear. So Leather up…with proper fitting leather, a minimum of 3oz, wear great boots, always protect your eyes and hands and wear sunscreen too. Look for vented jackets for the airflow and linings made of moisture wicking fabric to keep you cool and alert.

Enjoy the summer and the freedom

I am rocking my half chaps...protects your legs from rocks and the heat from your bike...look great too!