The Altitude Bomber Jacket
A Storm Creek jacket is easily the most complex garment we create. The journey from idea to completed product spans many months, involving careful consideration of color, fabric, trim, and design trends. We source sustainable materials, develop prototypes, and focus on quality, fit, and sustainability every step of the way.
In honor of Women’s History Month, we’re excited to showcase the creation of our Altitude Jacket—designed specifically for women, by women. We sat down with one of our Senior Designers, Karina Fernandes, to learn more about the development process and the thoughtful work that goes into each piece. We hope these insights help you appreciate the research, dedication, and expertise that shape every jacket, reflecting our commitment to both empowering women and the environment.
COLOR TRENDS AND DESIGN INSPIRATION
Karina starts by looking at projected color and design trends for the upcoming season. We rely on forecasting services that anticipate future color and design trends across many industries, including fashion. Sources like Pantone, Vogue, fashion blogs, Instagram, and other online trend-forecasting platforms provide valuable insights.
She researches hundreds of websites and pages to gather ideas on projected colors and styles. The best selections are grouped onto boards, keying in on those that align with Storm Creek’s vision.
DESIGN AND CONSTRUCTION
Once the final decisions are made for colors and styles, the design process begins. Inspired by her boards, Karina creates several rounds of sketches and rough drawings before finalizing the look of the jacket.
Karina then develops the Technical Package—detailed instructions sent to our factories for pattern creation and prototypes. These call-outs include specifics like:
- The width of the inside storm flap
- Placement of the bungee cord stopper in the hem
- Zipper size for the inside chest pocket
- Dimensions of the diamond quilting pattern
- Distance between stitching rows in the quilting
- The more detailed the instructions, the more precise and satisfactory the prototype will be.
If new materials or fits are required, the process takes longer. However, this attention to detail ensures every jacket meets our high standards.
MATERIALS
Our jackets prioritize comfort, sustainability, and performance. Materials must meet these criteria:
- Soft, comfortable texture
- Eco-friendly components—including fabric, thread, and insulation
- Water and wind resistance without harmful chemicals like PFAS
“For the Altitude Jacket, we selected a nylon fabric with recycled insulation, while the Challenger uses Bluesign-approved recycled nylon,” explains Karina.
Once fabric and colors are chosen, mills send lab dips—small fabric samples in selected colors—to ensure they meet expectations before placing larger orders. Karina also selects elements like zippers, snaps, and drawcords, choosing between contrast or dyed-to-match options.
PROTOTYPING USING 3D RENDERING
While waiting for physical samples, Karina uses CLO3D software to examine digital samples for design flaws or pattern issues. This process allows her to make quick decisions and changes early on, saving time.
With Alvanon forms in CLO3D, Karina reviews the full-size set for each design, ensuring consistent fit and sizing across the product line.
PHYSICAL SAMPLES
Our Design Team aims for three prototype rounds, with the final decision made by the third sample. The first prototype is typically a digital rendering, followed by two physical samples to test fit, functionality, and aesthetics.
“When we receive a sample, we measure it and conduct a fitting session to confirm it meets expectations,” says Karina. “Any changes are communicated to the pattern makers for adjustments.”
Once the design details and fit are approved, every measurement and specification is entered into the Technical Package to ensure consistency in production.
ADDING TO STORM CREEK'S COLLECTION
The entire journey of the Altitude Jacket takes about 12 months from initial inspiration to warehouse stock. As we celebrate Women’s History Month, this process is a testament to the dedication and craftsmanship of women creating for women. Every stitch, fit adjustment, and design choice is made with the goal of empowering women to feel confident, comfortable, and ready to take on whatever the day brings. With Karina’s thoughtful touch, Storm Creek is proud to continue shaping women’s style—one purposeful piece at a time.
