tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-60400284318869308672022-11-08T06:29:18.396-06:00Iron As NeededMade in ColoradoUnknownnoreply@blogger.comBlogger70125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6040028431886930867.post-39171327223337751012021-06-22T18:21:00.002-05:002021-06-22T18:29:51.362-05:00Mirror Mirror<div class="separator"><span style="font-family: georgia;">"In difficult times, fashion is always outrageous." </span></div><div class="separator"><span style="font-family: georgia;"> - <span data-redactor-tag="strong" style="box-sizing: border-box; outline: 0px;">Elsa Schiaparelli</span></span></div><div class="separator"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-EdWqjh5Nxtg/YNJJUbSUfHI/AAAAAAAAFJo/kb1pQPFVOm0D-9_QPUltV3ovCSnV3lP5wCLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/Christian%2BDior%2BFall%2B2021%2B1.jpeg" style="clear: left; float: left; font-family: georgia; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1365" height="340" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-EdWqjh5Nxtg/YNJJUbSUfHI/AAAAAAAAFJo/kb1pQPFVOm0D-9_QPUltV3ovCSnV3lP5wCLcBGAsYHQ/w226-h340/Christian%2BDior%2BFall%2B2021%2B1.jpeg" width="226" /></a><span style="font-family: georgia;"><span face="Savoy, helvetica, sans-serif"><div style="text-align: left;"><span face="Savoy, helvetica, sans-serif">Dior's fairy-tale-inspired 2021 fall collection fittingly </span><span face="Savoy, helvetica, sans-serif">debuted in the Hall of Mirrors at Versailles. With a darkness resembling</span><span face="Savoy, helvetica, sans-serif"> the original Grimms' tales rather than the rose-tinted Disney adaptations, each look told a story. </span></div></span></span></div><div class="separator"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: right;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kmnXqXp4P3Q/YNJPT0MyttI/AAAAAAAAFJ8/NIfmw18NdMg6pFanXPuLtRyeznxxrpZ3wCLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/Christian%2BDior%2BFall%2B2021%2B-%2B2.jpeg" style="clear: right; font-style: italic; margin-bottom: 1em; text-align: center;"></a></div><div class="separator"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><span face="Savoy, helvetica, sans-serif"><span style="clear: right; float: right; font-family: georgia; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1365" height="364" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kmnXqXp4P3Q/YNJPT0MyttI/AAAAAAAAFJ8/NIfmw18NdMg6pFanXPuLtRyeznxxrpZ3wCLcBGAsYHQ/w242-h364/Christian%2BDior%2BFall%2B2021%2B-%2B2.jpeg" width="242" /></span>“I prefer the original fairy tales. The references are scary. It’s a way to teach young people what happens in the world,” c</span><span face="Savoy, helvetica, sans-serif">reative director </span><span face="Savoy, helvetica, sans-serif">Maria Grazia Chiuri said</span><span face="Savoy, helvetica, sans-serif">. “A way to prepare them for the future.”</span></span></div><div class="separator"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator"><span style="font-family: georgia;">From hoods referencing <i>Little Red Riding Hood</i> to poisoned-apple red to hearts fit for the Red Queen, no detail was overlooked. Chiuri created something special that took you on a journey outside of reality.</span></div><div class="separator"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><span face="Savoy, helvetica, sans-serif">The show ended with two extraordinary dresses that would have fit perfectly into Tim Burton's </span><i>Alice in Wonderland</i><span face="Savoy, helvetica, sans-serif">, similar to <a href="http://ironasneeded.blogspot.com/2016/08/fit-for-mad-tea-party.html" target="_blank">the dress I replicated</a> from the movie a few years ago</span><span face="Savoy, helvetica, sans-serif">. Off with their heads!</span></span></div><div class="separator"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><span face="Savoy, helvetica, sans-serif">Not surprisingly, I was once again drawn to mostly black and white fabrics while shopping at Mood.com for the material to make these twelve looks. There are a few staples that I buy again and again, including an </span><a href="https://www.moodfabrics.com/italian-black-stretch-polyester-viscose-suiting-fp25792" target="_blank">Italian viscose suiting</a><span face="Savoy, helvetica, sans-serif"> and a </span><a href="https://www.moodfabrics.com/premium-black-stretch-ponte-knit-316422" target="_blank">premium stretch ponte<span face="Savoy, helvetica, sans-serif"> knit</span></a><span face="Savoy, helvetica, sans-serif"> that are both easy to work with and even more comfortable to wear. I also chose fabrics varying in texture such as lace, fringe, and quilted knit to enhance the silhouettes.</span></span></div><div class="separator"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><span face="Savoy, helvetica, sans-serif"><br /></span></span></div><div class="separator"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><span face="Savoy, helvetica, sans-serif">Made in Colorado</span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><br /><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qQQ1KgfkGnI/YNI6jkdr6BI/AAAAAAAAFIA/WsM14R9-ggYcS1eQZwsA9asgQLl2q-rIQCLcBGAsYHQ/s2395/BW%2BSkirt.jpeg" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2395" data-original-width="871" height="289" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qQQ1KgfkGnI/YNI6jkdr6BI/AAAAAAAAFIA/WsM14R9-ggYcS1eQZwsA9asgQLl2q-rIQCLcBGAsYHQ/w105-h289/BW%2BSkirt.jpeg" width="105" /></a><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-euSXLDxiwGU/YNJJ7ClddHI/AAAAAAAAFJ0/TTH3ldvZCfs7l1x3QXqSLWXm6bFAYTOaQCLcBGAsYHQ/s2528/Jumpsuit.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; 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margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1507" data-original-width="521" height="308" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-asAiFVkOb64/YNJA6KEQcNI/AAAAAAAAFJQ/sqxPIRSgcZIHoYWiLPI-3CU6BE2JRPNugCLcBGAsYHQ/w107-h308/Leather%2BSkirt%2BFix.jpeg" width="107" /></a><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nlS8iQLuR3E/YNI-8r68p9I/AAAAAAAAFIo/7dE5TUyBsCAlDp-EWkt2vtLdKeqKod2xACLcBGAsYHQ/s2359/Criss%2BCross%2BTop.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2359" data-original-width="877" height="307" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nlS8iQLuR3E/YNI-8r68p9I/AAAAAAAAFIo/7dE5TUyBsCAlDp-EWkt2vtLdKeqKod2xACLcBGAsYHQ/w114-h307/Criss%2BCross%2BTop.jpeg" width="114" /></a><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vSya6eqpLgw/YNI_Ul8odLI/AAAAAAAAFI0/hvbIq-L-QggHFjvS7AkMPUfN4Jnrj9VfwCLcBGAsYHQ/s2499/Uneven%2BSkirt.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2499" data-original-width="855" height="308" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vSya6eqpLgw/YNI_Ul8odLI/AAAAAAAAFI0/hvbIq-L-QggHFjvS7AkMPUfN4Jnrj9VfwCLcBGAsYHQ/w105-h308/Uneven%2BSkirt.jpeg" width="105" /></a><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0NBRNygc-rU/YNJA6orOI2I/AAAAAAAAFJY/Xd4Cb6VhfuYgJ8tJoOVjAYHcH3eDcOgJgCLcBGAsYHQ/s2458/Black%2BLace%2BDress.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2458" data-original-width="1029" height="309" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0NBRNygc-rU/YNJA6orOI2I/AAAAAAAAFJY/Xd4Cb6VhfuYgJ8tJoOVjAYHcH3eDcOgJgCLcBGAsYHQ/w129-h309/Black%2BLace%2BDress.jpeg" width="129" /></a></div></div></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6040028431886930867.post-548622208570503822019-09-05T20:11:00.002-05:002019-09-11T13:17:24.726-05:00Dior: From Paris to the World<span style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: "merriweather" , "georgia" , serif;">“It is unforgivable to do what one doesn't love, especially if one succeeds.” </span><br />
<span style="color: #181818; font-family: "merriweather" , "georgia" , serif;"><span style="background-color: white;"> - Christian Dior</span></span><br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-IJo-0yvp_6A/XXFfcBw_f8I/AAAAAAAAENs/wWLpvAmDcwAMD9FXfNn9F6Pa5wGyWwu6QCLcBGAs/s1600/Dior1.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-IJo-0yvp_6A/XXFfcBw_f8I/AAAAAAAAENs/wWLpvAmDcwAMD9FXfNn9F6Pa5wGyWwu6QCLcBGAs/s320/Dior1.jpeg" width="320" /></a><span style="color: #181818; font-family: "merriweather" , "georgia" , serif;"><span style="background-color: white;">By the time I had heard about the Dior exhibit happening at the Denver Art Museum, the show was over . . . or so I thought. But after repeatedly selling out day after day, the museum extended its runtime and my friend surprised me with a ticket for the final weekend of From Paris to the World.</span></span><br />
<span style="color: #181818; font-family: "merriweather" , "georgia" , serif;"><span style="background-color: white;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="color: #181818; font-family: "merriweather" , "georgia" , serif;"><span style="background-color: white;">Walking into that first room at the gallery, I was a little teary-eyed. Spotlights shone down on dresses from Christian Dior's first collection from 1947 that I had only ever seen in photos. These iconic dresses were the beginning of the "New Look" that strayed from the previous boxy silhouettes. Dior rounded the shoulders, brought in the waist, and accentuated the hips, which gave the fashion world something to talk about. </span></span><br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LeIZHti73lA/XXFe1-dAlAI/AAAAAAAAENc/TyM1_BfIx5cwIyL1y9CABSaGKsIpyAdcwCLcBGAs/s1600/DiorExhibit.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LeIZHti73lA/XXFe1-dAlAI/AAAAAAAAENc/TyM1_BfIx5cwIyL1y9CABSaGKsIpyAdcwCLcBGAs/s320/DiorExhibit.jpeg" width="320" /></a><span style="color: #181818; font-family: "merriweather" , "georgia" , serif;"><span style="background-color: white;">Each room of the exhibit featured designs by Dior and his six successors since his passing: Yves Saint Laurent, Marc Bohan, Gianfranco Ferre, John Galliano, Raf Simons, and Maria Grazia Chiuri. As well as showcasing over 70 years of the House of Dior's looks, there were also photographs, original sketches, and accessories on display. </span></span><br />
<span style="color: #181818; font-family: "merriweather" , "georgia" , serif;"><span style="background-color: white;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="color: #181818; font-family: "merriweather" , "georgia" , serif;"><span style="background-color: white;">Having watched the documentary <i>Dior and I</i> a few years back, I was particularly drawn to the dresses designed by Raf Simons that were highlighted in the film. I was able to get so close to them that I could see the stitching, texture, and detailing of each garment. </span></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: "merriweather" , "georgia" , serif;">The last room of the exhibit was filled with dozens of dresses on a large stage that spanned the history of the fashion house. There was so much to look at that it was almost overwhelming, but i</span><span style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: "merriweather" , "georgia" , serif;">t wouldn't be Dior without a grand finale</span><span style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: "merriweather" , "georgia" , serif;">. </span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: "merriweather" , "georgia" , serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: "merriweather" , "georgia" , serif;">After seeing over 200 couture dresses, I was inspired to create. In the four looks below, I used everything from plaids to stripes to sequins to flowers. And I learned one lesson: I will never sew a fabric made of both sequins and beading ever again. But just this once, it was worth the hassle.</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: "merriweather" , "georgia" , serif;">Made in Colorado </span><br />
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6040028431886930867.post-18999955663812798182018-05-22T21:27:00.002-05:002021-06-22T18:30:02.497-05:00J'Adore Dior"Everything I know, see or hear, every part of my life is transformed into dresses. They are my daydreams, but they have passed from dreamland into the world of everyday items to wear."<br />
-Christian Dior<br />
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5zY6YvY9EKw/Wv9eomffXYI/AAAAAAAADyA/zGaulYefQFEZEzu2rolR3vJO9Im25_ATgCEwYBhgL/s1600/Dior1.jpg" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1067" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5zY6YvY9EKw/Wv9eomffXYI/AAAAAAAADyA/zGaulYefQFEZEzu2rolR3vJO9Im25_ATgCEwYBhgL/s400/Dior1.jpg" width="266" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Christian Dior Spring 2018 Couture </td></tr>
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In my early twenties I worked at Saks Fifth Avenue in Kansas City and purchased a little sleeveless top by Christian Dior that read, "J'Adore Dior." And to this day, it's still one of my favorites. The design house has seen many creative directors come and go since Mr. Dior stunned the world with his debut collection in 1947. Carmel Snow, editor of Harper's Bazaar at the time, fell in love with Dior's silhouettes that had so much volume, yet minuscule waistlines. She said, "It's quite a revolution, dear Christian! Your dresses have such a new look!"<br />
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Dior's current artistic director Maria Grazia Chiuri is adamant that the company needs to be about female empowerment as she demonstrated throughout the spring 2018 couture show. The black and white checkerboard runway set the scene and looked like it was snatched right out of a Tim Burton film. Dresses mirrored the two-toned floor in eye-catching prints for a dramatic effect and the result was much edgier than previous collections.<br />
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Springtime always puts me in the mood to sew. I haven't done much sewing since last spring, but I got inspired the last few weeks and started to make a dent in my ever-growing pile of fabric. I made some new patterns out of muslin while draping on my dress form and got to work.<br />
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The first three looks I created are light, airy, and full of color. I experimented with different necklines and hemlines. For the top of my fourth look, I sewed a two-way zipper into the top fabric that can be unzipped to expose the black fabric underneath. And then I continued sewing with my go-to black and white palette while throwing in a little dark blue for good measure. I saved the sparkliest fabric for last, which made me think of Art Deco. I was initially going to make a twenties flapper-style dress with it, but decided on a cinched waist with a fuller skirt that will be perfect for a night out.<br />
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Made in Colorado<div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Ootun5_wEr4/WwTSRqLGbHI/AAAAAAAADyc/ciwtyzpAwWcnAvDHrh-a3yLQJsGmVBN8gCLcBGAs/s1600/SpringBlogpinkblueWhite.jpg" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="452" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Ootun5_wEr4/WwTSRqLGbHI/AAAAAAAADyc/ciwtyzpAwWcnAvDHrh-a3yLQJsGmVBN8gCLcBGAs/s320/SpringBlogpinkblueWhite.jpg" width="133" /></a><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-jVHdk5dlI7U/WwTSK8AaLkI/AAAAAAAADyU/2v5chOItq-IWpQ5xwbviFwPErMA9tfUMACLcBGAs/s1600/SpringBlog2White.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="428" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-jVHdk5dlI7U/WwTSK8AaLkI/AAAAAAAADyU/2v5chOItq-IWpQ5xwbviFwPErMA9tfUMACLcBGAs/s320/SpringBlog2White.jpg" width="126" /></a><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-rh1livWgJbQ/WwTSDvaKjdI/AAAAAAAADyQ/eSQSX_ZHQAwbYISLlmBM08r7GaBw140AACLcBGAs/s1600/SpringBlog18White.jpg" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1066" data-original-width="438" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-rh1livWgJbQ/WwTSDvaKjdI/AAAAAAAADyQ/eSQSX_ZHQAwbYISLlmBM08r7GaBw140AACLcBGAs/s320/SpringBlog18White.jpg" width="131" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-fcm4DCrcrSg/WwTSV5q_NfI/AAAAAAAADyk/S6Mspryo1w43x-sfau0RmTrU6cGu2fLgACLcBGAs/s1600/SpringBlog7White.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LSlSWaQ_mkU/WwTSb7CWj_I/AAAAAAAADys/453fIplW6AQuOBPDDhxooDARw6tNRwwGQCLcBGAs/s1600/SpringBlog8White.jpg" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1072" data-original-width="498" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LSlSWaQ_mkU/WwTSb7CWj_I/AAAAAAAADys/453fIplW6AQuOBPDDhxooDARw6tNRwwGQCLcBGAs/s320/SpringBlog8White.jpg" width="148" /></a><img border="0" data-original-height="1072" data-original-width="477" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-fcm4DCrcrSg/WwTSV5q_NfI/AAAAAAAADyk/S6Mspryo1w43x-sfau0RmTrU6cGu2fLgACLcBGAs/s320/SpringBlog7White.jpg" width="142" /><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-fnyJP3bY77c/WwTTDZzgAEI/AAAAAAAADzI/feKzU_PQhMQsWSaK0eWwrTdBvDyhOtCdQCLcBGAs/s1600/SpringBlog13White.jpg" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="444" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-fnyJP3bY77c/WwTTDZzgAEI/AAAAAAAADzI/feKzU_PQhMQsWSaK0eWwrTdBvDyhOtCdQCLcBGAs/s320/SpringBlog13White.jpg" width="131" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-trAMWWRDdq8/WwTTDaY0HRI/AAAAAAAADzM/BhY6ffcY5jYAMPkZK2Fe7JK2f0Ncs47RwCLcBGAs/s1600/SpringBlog17White.jpg" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-trAMWWRDdq8/WwTTDaY0HRI/AAAAAAAADzM/BhY6ffcY5jYAMPkZK2Fe7JK2f0Ncs47RwCLcBGAs/s320/SpringBlog17White.jpg" width="142" /></a><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3SalHuJyk60/WwTSOyOZYeI/AAAAAAAADyY/fdnrj3HkF8w41KCRiahTEafS1LVYqDVfgCLcBGAs/s1600/SpringBlog5White.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="496" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3SalHuJyk60/WwTSOyOZYeI/AAAAAAAADyY/fdnrj3HkF8w41KCRiahTEafS1LVYqDVfgCLcBGAs/s320/SpringBlog5White.jpg" width="146" /></a><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-9zOPDq2eneg/WwTSWCK_uXI/AAAAAAAADyo/Ta7xqPUHYKUQ8FF4du20m4BtNyNVwfOLwCLcBGAs/s1600/SpringBlog6White.jpg" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="420" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-9zOPDq2eneg/WwTSWCK_uXI/AAAAAAAADyo/Ta7xqPUHYKUQ8FF4du20m4BtNyNVwfOLwCLcBGAs/s320/SpringBlog6White.jpg" width="124" /></a></div>
<br /></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6040028431886930867.post-11178640740041691272017-05-25T17:41:00.001-05:002021-06-22T18:31:31.669-05:00Versace's Couture Metamorphosis<div>
"I think glamour all the time. I wake up in the morning and I'm already thinking glamour."</div>
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-Donatella Versace</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Versace Spring 2017 Couture</td></tr>
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The first haute couture house in Paris was established in 1958 by Englishman Charles Frederick Worth. Rather than being simply a dressmaker, he was an artist. There have been many more to follow Mr. Worth, including the rocker-glam leader of the fashion world, Versace. </div>
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Gianni Versace started his clothing line in the late 70s and debuted his first couture collection in 1989 while always keeping his family working closely alongside him. From the very beginning, Versace used innovative materials in his designs, such as metal mesh and a unique blend of rubber and leather. </div>
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Gianni's sister, Donatella, has kept Versace going strong through the years and did not disappoint with the latest couture designs based on the theme metamorphosis. There were short dresses paired with gladiator sandals and long gowns showing off hourglass silhouettes that were the epitome of glamour. Using fresh construction techniques involving knots, pleats, metal, and organic elements, each piece was loaded with texture. Just as the theme suggested, Versace's couture collection was inspired by the beauty of transformation. </div>
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I dusted off my sewing machines and started creating again. I designed everything from one-piece rompers and dresses to pants and graphic tops. Using matching white and black fabrics, I even created some of my own prints by making a checkerboard-like pattern and sewing stripes onto fabric. The end result was a mini capsule collection. </div>
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Made in Colorado</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-jMk4Sx0Yqnw/WScL15N8arI/AAAAAAAADfM/idfgBt-b5UktRCKHCn8eU9udDJzwRbQQQCLcB/s1600/Blog2-White.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-TayABLhUbPc/WScLxgVvnPI/AAAAAAAADfI/_0HBSiqpr6UyNagNMu48z4UBjcib28x0wCLcB/s1600/Blog1-White.jpg" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="632" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-TayABLhUbPc/WScLxgVvnPI/AAAAAAAADfI/_0HBSiqpr6UyNagNMu48z4UBjcib28x0wCLcB/s320/Blog1-White.jpg" width="126" /></a><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="629" height="320" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-jMk4Sx0Yqnw/WScL15N8arI/AAAAAAAADfM/idfgBt-b5UktRCKHCn8eU9udDJzwRbQQQCLcB/s320/Blog2-White.jpg" width="125" /><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-H6iDheRQmNE/WScL67Z3AfI/AAAAAAAADfg/l8QJ4AISq8UmzjaurqSoSORAEX0htojtACLcB/s1600/blog8-white.jpg" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="638" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-H6iDheRQmNE/WScL67Z3AfI/AAAAAAAADfg/l8QJ4AISq8UmzjaurqSoSORAEX0htojtACLcB/s320/blog8-white.jpg" width="127" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-bwYsdfzWvck/WScL3D6SAyI/AAAAAAAADfU/eC-xDfH-pDMYxJUPzGQhIR8maGUkK2MrQCLcB/s1600/Blog4-white.jpg" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="605" height="320" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-bwYsdfzWvck/WScL3D6SAyI/AAAAAAAADfU/eC-xDfH-pDMYxJUPzGQhIR8maGUkK2MrQCLcB/s320/Blog4-white.jpg" width="121" /></a><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-21fwFFZ_x20/WScL6KNJNZI/AAAAAAAADfY/c6O5sXHh_VwUyWtSlRdknunJaMMefZ97gCLcB/s1600/Blog5-White.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="577" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-21fwFFZ_x20/WScL6KNJNZI/AAAAAAAADfY/c6O5sXHh_VwUyWtSlRdknunJaMMefZ97gCLcB/s320/Blog5-White.jpg" width="115" /></a><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5CGnsf1vmMk/WScL6VoJf-I/AAAAAAAADfc/3BcBTyHbKJUZuDAavXK5wqzC-ZGQavbiQCLcB/s1600/blog6-white.jpg" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="670" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5CGnsf1vmMk/WScL6VoJf-I/AAAAAAAADfc/3BcBTyHbKJUZuDAavXK5wqzC-ZGQavbiQCLcB/s320/blog6-white.jpg" width="134" /></a></div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6040028431886930867.post-29295288479508014962016-08-11T10:02:00.000-05:002016-08-11T10:06:34.801-05:00Fit for a Mad Tea Party"You’re mad, bonkers, completely off your head. But I’ll tell you a secret. All the best people are."<br />
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-Lewis Carroll, <i>Alice in Wonderland</i></div>
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The Mad Hatter, the Red Queen, Tweedledee, Tweedledum, and, of course, Alice. Lewis Carroll's <i>Alice in Wonderland</i> is full of memorable characters. The mastermind who helped bring them to life in Tim Burton's film adaption and its recent sequel, <i>Alice Through the Looking Glass</i>, was designer Colleen Atwood. She deservedly won an Oscar for making <i>Alice in Wonderland</i>'s costumes ever bit as extraordinary as the cast.</div>
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One of the biggest challenges for Atwood while coming up with design ideas was Alice's continuously shifting shape. "We made a decision that as Alice shrunk and grew, her dress would not," says Atwood. "Alice had around eight looks, and multiples of most of them, so there were around 20 hand-made costumes. The script and idea of Alice as an exploring spirit really inspired me." </div>
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In one scene, Alice shows up to the Red Queen's court, eats a bit too much cake given to her by the White Rabbit, and completely outgrows her blue dress. The Red Queen (played by Helena Bonham Carter) spots her hiding behind the bushes and orders, "Someone find her some clothes, use the curtains if you must, but clothe this enormous girl!" Alice is then given the very Burton-esque, asymmetrical black, white, and red dress.</div>
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The Mad Hatter, played by Johnny Depp, is a bizarre character that has literally gone mad. When coming up with a vision for the character, Depp found that hatters would actually go a little nutty from the glue they used because of its high mercury content. He then made a watercolor painting of how he envisioned the Mad Hatter's appearance. At the same time across the globe, Burton came up with a sketch that was very similar to Depp's. When designing the Hatter's costume, Atwood spared no detail and even incorporated all the tools of his trade into the designs, such as scissors, thimbles and a pin cushion ring. </div>
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Atwood and Burton have been working on projects together since <i>Edward Scissorhands</i>. May their whimsical masterpieces continue for many years to come. </div>
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-IiS7B2o7des/V6yUKdqjJBI/AAAAAAAADSs/B4AiwMJ8bwczwKE3F-FcJ3yTIIH96TK4ACLcB/s1600/AliceFabric.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="168" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-IiS7B2o7des/V6yUKdqjJBI/AAAAAAAADSs/B4AiwMJ8bwczwKE3F-FcJ3yTIIH96TK4ACLcB/s200/AliceFabric.JPG" width="200" /></a>My friends are throwing a mad tea party this week inspired by Lewis Carroll's <i>Alice in Wonderland </i><i>(</i>costumes, teacup breaking, and all). Since I love Tim Burton films, I chose to make the dress Alice is given when seeing the Red Queen. And that is when I fell down a rabbit hole . . .</div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-A7PPeKDxN_s/V6yULpEoGtI/AAAAAAAADSw/2bbkb15JncUsQU4qEYewPXRmy1RO1JhGwCLcB/s1600/aliceblog1212.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-A7PPeKDxN_s/V6yULpEoGtI/AAAAAAAADSw/2bbkb15JncUsQU4qEYewPXRmy1RO1JhGwCLcB/s320/aliceblog1212.jpg" width="215" /></a>The black and white striped fabric used for the original costume is beautiful and it was difficult to find something similar. I ended up buying a striped chiffon from Etsy along with a lot of tulle, taffeta, cotton twill, cording, and ribbon. The total amount of fabric came close to 20 yards. </div>
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I only had photos from a Google search to use as a guide to create this costume. Due to the limited number of hours I had to make the dress, it was lucky for me that the original design by Colleen Atwood was made to look like it had just been thrown together on a whim. It was perfectly undone. By the end of it, I was cutting fabric pieces haphazardly without even measuring them and randomly tucking in bits of the skirt in the back just as Alice's dress is in the movie when she shrinks once again.</div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-J9LmtNk_7FE/V6qe4QhuEUI/AAAAAAAADQ4/dtavZc-RS2cKM9N4zL7mxjENIxx9BkhpACLcB/s1600/BlogAliceDesign12.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><br /></a>Fittingly, constructing this dress made me go a little mad. </div>
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Made in Colorado</div>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6040028431886930867.post-24135872507786309542016-06-02T08:25:00.000-05:002016-06-02T09:00:34.685-05:00Spring into Summer with Flowers and Lace"After women, flowers are the most divine creations."<br />
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- Christian Dior</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Emilia Wickstead Spring/Summer 2016</td></tr>
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Wildflowers of all different colors are in full bloom on the mountainsides of Colorado. It's quite fitting that this season's collections are adorned with flowers and lace.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.8px; text-align: center;">Monique Lhuillier Spring/Summer 2016</td></tr>
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Marchesa, known for their ultra feminine dresses, seems to include these two elements into each and every one of their collections and did not disappoint for spring/summer 2016. Burberry, Oscar de la Renta, Emanuel Ungaro, Emilia Wickstead, and Monique Lhuillier have all followed Marchesa's lead. Designers can't get enough of the flowery prints and have even sprinkled them throughout their latest collections for next fall.<br />
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Not only something pretty to look at, flowers have been incorporated into clothing from many different cultures around the world offering significant meaning and symbolism.<br />
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The peony is the national flower of China and represents wealth and honor. It is often seen on Chinese paintings, national clothing, and decorations. Floral prints are also widely used in India and Japan (think of all the colorful flowers on a kimono). Do I even need to mention Hawaii?<br />
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Just like floral prints, lace has been around for centuries and was frequently used for both men and women's collars, shawls, and even to decorate door knobs. It was a popular clothing choice for Queen Elizabeth I in the 16th century.<br />
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Quite a contrast from the buttoned-up and formal usage of the delicate fabric worn by the Queen, the Roaring Twenties transformed the textile into something entirely different. It was used to create a whole new look and controversial dress silhouette that encapsulated the free-spirit of the 1920s flapper girl.<br />
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-CgZ_ZzMVhLo/V1A0TNNwfKI/AAAAAAAADCw/d2d9KAYYW6Y6_M8gKSEG7P2oatRl_B-pwCLcB/s1600/blogfloral1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-CgZ_ZzMVhLo/V1A0TNNwfKI/AAAAAAAADCw/d2d9KAYYW6Y6_M8gKSEG7P2oatRl_B-pwCLcB/s320/blogfloral1.jpg" width="140" /></a>This week I dug through my fabric archives and found an absolute gem that I had used ages ago for a summery dress. The new and improved design is made of the same black cotton lace. Using the flowers to my advantage, I carefully cut around their edges to accentuate the collar and hem. It isn't entirely symmetrical, but that's what makes it unique.<br />
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For my next look, I purchased a gorgeous floral silk cotton voile by Liberty of London from Mood Fabrics and made a dress with a dramatic collar and exposed shoulders. Every girl needs a pretty flowery dress she can wear to a summer garden party.<br />
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Made in Colorado</div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6040028431886930867.post-91739655114343627722015-12-21T09:35:00.001-06:002015-12-24T20:51:52.032-06:00Have Yourself a Merry Twenties Christmas <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
"My idea of Christmas, whether old-fashioned or modern, is very simple: loving others. Come to think of it, why do we have to wait for Christmas to do that?" </div>
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- Bob Hope<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Actress Carole Lombard (1927)</td></tr>
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The Roaring Twenties was a festive time and Christmas was no exception. Drop-waisted flapper dresses, jazz music, dancing, and lavishly decorated trees were all part of the 1920s Christmas experience. </div>
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Much more round in shape than they are today, Christmas trees in the twenties resembled something that could've been extracted from the house of Herman and Lily Munster. The footloose and fancy-free flappers were not focused on decorations in early November. They were busy out dancing the night away and waited until Christmas Eve to set out their trees, which they garnished with cotton spun ornaments and strands of popcorn or beads.</div>
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In 1923, Calvin Coolidge was the first president to preside over the National Christmas tree lighting ceremony. Before him, the first actual tree in the White House was displayed in 1889 following the first Christmas party held in December of 1800 for the Adams's 4-year-old granddaughter.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Fitzgeralds in Paris (1925)</td></tr>
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Two of America's best known sweethearts from the twenties were F. Scott and Zelda Fitzgerald. As did many budding artists of that decade, they spent a lot of their time in France. In 1925, they posed with their only daughter Frances Scott, commonly referred to as "Scottie," by a tree in Paris. In 1947, Zelda wrote a letter to Scottie about their past Christmases together:</div>
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"I remember the trees we had in Europe: one Christmas we spent drinking under the gold statue of Victor Emmanuel in Rome, lost in time and space & the majestic prettiness of that square before the cavernously echoing Piazza Cologna. The tree was covered with silver bells which rang hauntedly through the night by themselves…..and we had a tree in Paris covered with mushrooms & with snowy houses which was fun. There were myriad birds of paradise on the tree with spun glass tails. And Nanny kept busily admonishing us about the French customs: how they did not give gifts at Christmas but at New Years…..then we had a tree on the Avenue McMahon which Nanny & I decorated between sips of champagne until neither we nor the tree could hold any more of fantaisie or decor. We kept our decorations for years in painted toy boxes and when the last of the tails wilted & the last house grew lopsided, it was almost a bereavement."<br />
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Christmastime attire for a care-free girl in the twenties would have consisted of a classic flapper dress spruced up with lace, bows, and, of course, fringe. They would have completed the look by slipping on their finest fur-collared coat to keep them warm on a wintry, December night.<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KTAuPDapHf8/VngcnZrIx6I/AAAAAAAAC8E/vfk0fw5-P7Y/s1600/Christmasblogpicfinal8.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KTAuPDapHf8/VngcnZrIx6I/AAAAAAAAC8E/vfk0fw5-P7Y/s320/Christmasblogpicfinal8.jpg" width="142" /></a></div>
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-xZmC89ygzK8/VngcmmKvUJI/AAAAAAAAC78/cwIx68De0ig/s1600/Christmasblogpicfinal2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-xZmC89ygzK8/VngcmmKvUJI/AAAAAAAAC78/cwIx68De0ig/s320/Christmasblogpicfinal2.jpg" width="147" /></a>As I'm obsessed with all things from the 1920s, I chose lace and more lace for my two latest designs. It was widely used for dress overlays throughout the Jazz Age and has a soft femininity to it while being easy to work with while constructing a garment.<br />
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The first dress I sewed is made of black lace and mesh that I spotted at a local fabric shop. It has an exposed metal zipper running down the back. For the second look, I used a pretty blue lace for the top and an Italian woven for the skirt. It is fairly stiff, which worked well since I wanted to create some volume that would be perfect for a holiday party.<br />
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Merry Christmas!<br />
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Made in Colorado</div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6040028431886930867.post-53524212966760137812015-10-07T19:45:00.001-05:002015-10-08T01:01:20.694-05:00A Meadow of Wildflowers "London is a riddle. Paris is an explanation."<br />
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- G.K. Chesterton</div>
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Paris in the fall. It's the place and season for fashionistas in the City of Light to get a firsthand view of what lies ahead for spring couture. Three collections unveiled this week that stood apart from the rest were Longchamp, Valentin Yudashkin, and Moncler Gamme Rouge.<br />
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Longchamp began in Paris in the 1940s and is known for their luxury luggage, handbags, and accessories. But at the Lonchamp show, Artistic Director Sophie Delafontaine asked, "And here are the handbags, in the back, if you’d like to see them, too?" Wanting to prove there is more to the brand than just their famous bags, a few models were sent down the runway empty-handed (gasp!). Luckily for Delafontaine, their women's ready-to-wear for spring 2016 was the real star of the show.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Moncler Gamme Rouge Spring 2016</td></tr>
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Russian designer Valentin Yudashkin's new designs were eye-catching to say the least. He strayed from his usual monotone black and introduced many vibrant colors into his garments. The blend of neoprene and mesh combined with unique silhouettes resulted in intriguing clothing with a sophisticated edge. Yudashkin explained, "If you do it from the heart, the customers will follow."<br />
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And now the best for last. Moncler was founded in the 1950s and is mostly known for their practical, yet fashionable outerwear that is perfect for wearing in the crisp mountain air. In 2006, the now Italian-based brand created their first high-end women's collection and named it Gamme Rouge (followed by Gamme Bleu for men).<br />
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It's no surprise that I was immediately drawn to the latest Moncler Gamme Rouge collection. It was designed by Giambattista Valli, who masterfully crafts feminine dresses adorned with flowers and intricacies with ease. Moncler prides themselves on technological research to discover the best materials for their outerwear and the fabrics seen on the runway in Paris today were no exception. Ivory white was the color of choice. Light, yet crisp silk organza dresses complete with flowers and exposed metal zippers were the real showstoppers. Fittingly, models walked down a catwalk that was transformed into a green grassy meadow full of colorful wildflowers. It was the perfect setting to accentuate the beauty that Valli created once again.<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tnvAY0o1zb4/VhYGlEaI0PI/AAAAAAAAC04/9sJYKSPxwn4/s1600/WSBlog1.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tnvAY0o1zb4/VhYGlEaI0PI/AAAAAAAAC04/9sJYKSPxwn4/s320/WSBlog1.png" width="129" /></a><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-J_pP4A6D86c/VhYGfPu4RMI/AAAAAAAAC0w/GFB_T08Ruig/s1600/WSBlog2.png.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-J_pP4A6D86c/VhYGfPu4RMI/AAAAAAAAC0w/GFB_T08Ruig/s320/WSBlog2.png.jpg" width="141" /></a>Fall always puts me in the mood to drink a lot of coffee and sew. I made two dresses that are perfect for this time of year. For the first I chose a beautiful stretch cotton twill with a floral landscape print and sewed black floral lace onto the fabric for some asymmetry. I used a solid black twill with chiffon sleeves for the next dress. The chiffon is an exquisite Rag & Bone material acquired from Mood Fabrics.<br />
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Made in Colorado</div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6040028431886930867.post-27549483828845070352015-08-06T12:34:00.001-05:002015-10-07T21:40:36.726-05:00Celtic Couture"I'm still astounded by some people's reaction to things I consider quite normal."<br />
-Jean Paul Gaultier<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-szOyiF0rvtk/VcOB8xAWOsI/AAAAAAAACuc/oSQ7_hgFzrU/s1600/jean-paul-gaultier-couture-fall-2015-10.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-szOyiF0rvtk/VcOB8xAWOsI/AAAAAAAACuc/oSQ7_hgFzrU/s320/jean-paul-gaultier-couture-fall-2015-10.jpg" width="213" /></a><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-uzJaeacVCf0/VcOL5tGXkrI/AAAAAAAACus/x16Kqk1vMGk/s1600/jean-paul-gaultier-couture-fall-2015-41.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-uzJaeacVCf0/VcOL5tGXkrI/AAAAAAAACus/x16Kqk1vMGk/s320/jean-paul-gaultier-couture-fall-2015-41.jpg" width="213" /></a>A foghorn booming in the distance, seagulls flying overhead, waves crashing, and bagpipes blaring all set the scene for Jean Paul Gaultier's fall couture runway show, where he transported the audience to Brittany, an idyllic seaside region in France. As models appeared wearing trench coats and velvet dresses, onlookers feasted on crepes that were passed around on trays.<br />
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Gaultier captured the area's rich history and Celtic heritage by incorporating stripes, large headpieces, and embroidery into the designs. He also introduced voluminous round skirts that <a href="http://ironasneeded.blogspot.com/2013/12/capitol-couture-effie-trinkets.html">Effie Trinket</a> would like to get her hands on. They seemed to defy gravity and were a true work of art.<br />
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<span style="background-color: white;">To end the show on a high note, a traditional pipe band appeared on the runway for the grand finale as Mr. Gaultier debuted the most extravagant gowns. They then proceeded to march off the catwalk following their flag.</span><br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Eo8RUBU4624/VhXXhtliv8I/AAAAAAAACzE/tREJjSiR3Bo/s1600/WSWebsite1a.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Eo8RUBU4624/VhXXhtliv8I/AAAAAAAACzE/tREJjSiR3Bo/s320/WSWebsite1a.png" width="143" /></a><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-XpSGZEUE7kc/VhXXhfd7L1I/AAAAAAAACzA/SZhjog5T9Ks/s1600/WSWebsite2a.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-XpSGZEUE7kc/VhXXhfd7L1I/AAAAAAAACzA/SZhjog5T9Ks/s320/WSWebsite2a.png" width="139" /></a>After a busy summer with not a lot of sewing time, I placed a massive fabric order with <a href="http://www.moodfabrics.com/">Mood Fabrics</a>. It's always like Christmas to receive a large box of brand new fabric. Two unique textiles that arrived with the shipment were a Rag & Bone black lace and a cotton material with an abstract black and white design.<br />
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I got to work draping and creating new patterns for a top, collar, and skirt. I used those new patterns that I had perfected for two dresses. The only difference is the gathered Rag & Bone black lace used as an overlay on the skirt portion of the olive green one. They will be great transition dresses as summer turns to fall.<br />
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Made in ColoradoUnknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6040028431886930867.post-46400699161541902802015-04-30T12:53:00.003-05:002015-10-07T21:42:35.024-05:00The Perfectly Imperfect Collection"Fashion should be a form of escapism, and not a form of imprisonment."<br />
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-Alexander McQueen<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-kLv0NDQ0BFI/VUAG7ufKWAI/AAAAAAAACpU/CkBYc0v4dMA/s1600/alexander-mcqueen-rtw-fw15-runway-09.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-kLv0NDQ0BFI/VUAG7ufKWAI/AAAAAAAACpU/CkBYc0v4dMA/s1600/alexander-mcqueen-rtw-fw15-runway-09.jpg" width="213" /></a><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-3OBlYaQCEq8/VUAG7kLEkCI/AAAAAAAACpM/_tFz5WGR7Rg/s1600/alexander-mcqueen-rtw-fw15-runway-27.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-3OBlYaQCEq8/VUAG7kLEkCI/AAAAAAAACpM/_tFz5WGR7Rg/s1600/alexander-mcqueen-rtw-fw15-runway-27.jpg" width="213" /></a>The Spirit of the Rose. It sounds like a theme for a spring/summer line, but was actually the idea behind the latest Alexander McQueen 2015 fall/winter collection. The simple, yet powerful rose is one of England's national emblems. The British luxury fashion house described it best when saying the rose is "a symbol of strength and fragility, forever on the brink of dishevelment." This is the inspiration that creative director Sarah Burton based her latest creations on. She wanted to conceptualize "the frayed nature of reality and the beauty of imperfection" while deconstructing the female form to "discover the darkly romantic woman underneath."<br />
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The show was held at the Conciergerie on the banks of the River Seine in the heart of Paris last month. Once a prison and part of the former royal palace, the grandiose structure's interior architecture was the perfect backdrop for Burton's masterfully-crafted designs. Models entered the grand room to industrial-electronic music that wouldn't be out of a place in a sci-fi movie, and weaved their way through the stone pillars. They were styled with wildly tousled hair along with perfectly made-up faces that resembled doll-like features. <br />
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The extraordinary dresses displayed a color palette that included blush, bordeaux, and black. Tiered chiffon ruffles that mimicked the rose and deconstructed black lace that morphed into skeleton-like dresses beautifully captured Burton's story of romance and imperfection. Alexander McQueen, the fashion rebel himself, would've been proud of this magnificent collection. </div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-TKsF3Ghto8o/VhXX-8LBe5I/AAAAAAAACzU/WbFQNmBLEuI/s1600/WSWebsite4ab.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-TKsF3Ghto8o/VhXX-8LBe5I/AAAAAAAACzU/WbFQNmBLEuI/s320/WSWebsite4ab.png" width="140" /></a><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ME392G7WaT0/VhXX-ggt0AI/AAAAAAAACzQ/fcj8OGpxREw/s1600/WSWebsite23a.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ME392G7WaT0/VhXX-ggt0AI/AAAAAAAACzQ/fcj8OGpxREw/s320/WSWebsite23a.png" width="134" /></a> The Alexander McQueen collection got me thinking about silhouettes that really flatter the female form. I decided to make two fit and flare dresses with cinched waists. I purchased a black stretch wool and a polka-dot brocade at Colorado Fabrics and designed two similarly cut dresses. They are both versatile and can be worn throughout the year for many different occasions. Plus, it's always great to have a few little black treasures hanging in the back of your closet.<br />
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Made in Colorado</div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6040028431886930867.post-77842871963416113372015-03-10T07:00:00.000-05:002015-10-07T21:47:44.495-05:00Flapper Fringe and Rocker Rage from New York to Paris"People will stare. Make it worth their while."<br />
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-Harry Winston</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Marchesa Fall 2015</td></tr>
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New York to London to Milan to Paris. With only a few designers left to debut their fall 2015 collections, fashion week is nearing an end. Some have pulled their inspiration from the 70s, while others were stirred by the Deco skyscrapers of Bryant Park. </div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Saint Laurent Fall 2015</td></tr>
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Known for their extraordinary dresses and precise attention to detail, Marchesa's Georgina Chapman and Keren Craig looked to F. Scott Fitzgerald for inspiration. Models wore dresses with dropped waists and were draped in beads, feathers, and tiers of fringe that wouldn't be out of place at a 1920s Gatsby party. </div>
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Marchesa gowns are a staple on the red carpet, but Chapman insists that the "runway and red carpet are completely different things" to them. She said, "If someone contacts us and wants to wear one of these dresses on the red carpet, that’s wonderful, but the clothes today are really as ready to go to the Academy Awards this weekend as they are some party in New York." Either way, their dresses next fall will unleash every girl's inner Zelda.</div>
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The Saint Laurent show took place yesterday in Paris. Although tulle was present on both Marchesa and Saint Laurent's catwalks, the two collections couldn't have been more different. As a song by The Felines, a girl punk garage band out of Copenhagen, blasted from the speakers, models walked the runway. All of the looks were very rocker chic with ripped tights, biker jackets, and short skirts lined with tulle. Creative Director Hedi Slimane created something special that would make Debbie Harry swoon.</div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dqQ0NCO1EkE/VhXZQIv_rOI/AAAAAAAACzo/kyOSszZDAwo/s1600/WSWebsite8a.png.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dqQ0NCO1EkE/VhXZQIv_rOI/AAAAAAAACzo/kyOSszZDAwo/s320/WSWebsite8a.png.jpg" width="151" /></a>Last week I visited Colorado Fabrics and purchased a faux leather designer textile that came straight from New York. Using my dress form, I draped and cut a new pattern out of muslin. The fabric was a cinch to work with and already had a great backing to it. I added the white waistline with belt loops to break up the blue. It turned out to be a fun dress that can be worn in the spring or fall.</div>
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Made in Colorado</div>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6040028431886930867.post-33532201769188099882015-02-18T00:51:00.001-06:002015-10-07T21:53:40.843-05:00The Fanny Pack Attends New York Fashion Week"I'm not afraid of the fanny pack."<br />
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-Matthew McConaughey</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Marc by Marc Jacobs Fall 2015</td></tr>
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The belt bag, hip tote, waist pouch, hands-free satchel, or whatever hipsters want to call the purse that is strapped to their waist ... is still a fanny pack. I used to rock a hot pink one back in the day that was made out of a cheap canvasy-type material. It was perfect for stashing away my gum and lip gloss as an adolescent. Although the fanny pack has been the butt of many jokes, it has slowly been making a comeback the last few years.</div>
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Matthew McConaughey, Kate Hudson, and Jared Leto are all fans of the functional bag. "I'm not afraid of the fanny pack," McConaughey said in 2014. "You gotta kinda put it on the side to make it look a little not as nerdy, but still, practicality wins out. I got so much gear in here that I don’t want in my pockets."<br />
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Isaac Mizrahi had it right when he said, "You either love them and make them part of your life or you fight them until the end." The designer has not sent one down the runway since the 1992. Only two years before that, an episode of Seinfeld aired where Jerry poked fun at George Costanza's fanny pack by telling him that it "looks like your belt is digesting a small animal."<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Rag & Bone Fall 2015</td></tr>
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Isaac may not be showcasing the belt bag anymore, but other designers are. At the fall 2015 Marc by Marc Jacobs show this week, the majority of the models walking down the runway were sporting fanny packs. Some were black and some were colorful, but they all had a boxy shape and a hip vibe to them with plenty of room for essentials. Other brands to proudly include the fanny pack in their fall 2015 collections are Rag & Bone and Moschino.<br />
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Compared to the neon pink fanny pack that my mom most likely picked up as a freebie at one of my dad's meetings back in the 90s, the new and improved "belt bags" come with a steeper price tag. Net-a-porter.com currently has a <a href="http://www.net-a-porter.com/product/474364/NewbarK/eva-calf-hair-and-leather-belt-bag">calf hair and leather one by Newbark</a> listed for $1,050. There is no doubt that the modern day fanny pack is much more sophisticated than its predecessors. If you're brave enough to make the switch from handbag to belt bag, your aching shoulders will thank you. Even if like Costanza, your friends never let you live it down.</div>
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In honor of fashion week, I made a mini collection comprised of three looks. I purchased a wool herringbone textile and used it to construct a dress and skirt. To make the fabric a bit edgier, I sewed down strips of thin black cord. The blue and white top with the zipper down the front is pieced together from fabric scraps I had lying around and is paired with a skirt I made several months ago. The white top is made out of a stretch denim. I added a closure at the neckline with three buttons and made half glove-cuffs to wear with it. It was fun to make and coordinate these three looks. I told my husband that next I would be making a fanny pack for myself. He looked at me like I was certifiably insane. I think the glove-cuffs had already done him in.<br />
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6040028431886930867.post-42617902479928828522014-12-18T22:55:00.001-06:002015-10-07T21:59:06.779-05:00Velvet Underground"I would drape myself in velvet if it were socially acceptable."<br />
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-George Costanza (<i>Seinfeld</i>, "The Label Maker" episode)</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-60PYwIZCM-E/VJOH1LSfdmI/AAAAAAAACic/vmvcguLYufA/s1600/saint-laurent-rtw-fw2014-runway-05_20051641070.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-60PYwIZCM-E/VJOH1LSfdmI/AAAAAAAACic/vmvcguLYufA/s1600/saint-laurent-rtw-fw2014-runway-05_20051641070.jpg" width="213" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Saint Laurent Fall 2014</td></tr>
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Hapless <i>Seinfeld</i> character George Costanza is a man of simple pleasures. All he wants out of life is a free meal, a private bathroom, and to be covered head to toe in the most unlikely of materials, velvet. It is not only the Costanzas of the world who favor the buttery soft fabric, but also royalty. Queen Elizabeth wore a 21 foot long violet, velvet train for her coronation in 1953. It took 12 embroiderers, 18 types of gold thread, and 3,500 hours to complete. It was truly fit for a queen. </div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Saint Laurent's Velvet Cape (Fall 2014)</td></tr>
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Designers are going gaga for velvet this season and using it in a chic and modern way. Emilio de la Morena paid homage to his Spanish roots and incorporated colorful shades of velvet combined with ruffles and ruching. It was a series of amazing cocktail dresses that any women would want. My absolute favorite velvet pieces this fall/winter came from Saint Laurent. All of the dresses and coats were impeccably done. Earlier this month, Angelina Jolie draped herself in Saint Laurent's black velvet cape. It could be hanging in your closet for the princely sum of $3,190.</div>
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The festive fabric is the perfect choice this Christmas as it conveys a sense of richness, royalty, and warmth. "Velvet has jewel-tone colors and a rich, luxe touch,” said Vogue.com Market Editor Chelsea Zalopany. “The luster of the material gives a touch of seasonal flair during the holidays, like the velvet bows at the recent Chanel pre-fall show." </div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-yfRYqAAuKxc/VhXbpdHR-SI/AAAAAAAAC0M/Ckrfi32g1-c/s1600/WSWebsite17a.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-yfRYqAAuKxc/VhXbpdHR-SI/AAAAAAAAC0M/Ckrfi32g1-c/s320/WSWebsite17a.png" width="152" /></a><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-sqsV94e6kBw/VhXbpb3RoFI/AAAAAAAAC0Q/eRbC4jiEPlI/s1600/WSWebsite19a.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-sqsV94e6kBw/VhXbpb3RoFI/AAAAAAAAC0Q/eRbC4jiEPlI/s320/WSWebsite19a.png" width="153" /></a>Following a recent trip to my local fabric shop in search of the perfect stretch velvet, I came home and began constructing a pair of pants. After finishing them, I had enough left over to make a top. Inspired by old diamond paned windows, I incorporated lace and created velvet strips for the panes. After thinking about how the modern jumpsuit is overtaking the LBD, I decided to turn my separates into a one piece. After painstakingly ripping out the zippers and shortening the top, the two pieces attached together with ease. </div>
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I also made a top using an old go-to fabric. This time I positioned the stripes horizontally and sewed black strips down the front and on the sleeves to change the direction of the wool and give it a unique texture. </div>
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These two looks will be perfect for sipping eggnog this Christmas and ringing in the new year!</div>
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Made in Colorado</div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6040028431886930867.post-50908126894831537792014-11-24T20:03:00.000-06:002014-11-24T20:03:00.849-06:00Leather Up"If I could dress anyone, I'd like to dress the Queen - she can handle anything. I'd put her in black - she never wears black - and add a little leather, maybe. A little rock n' roll."<br />
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-Donatella Versace</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0_j8ZxX37jk/VHKgY4kqAiI/AAAAAAAACf0/H0G-f17sCZw/s1600/james-dean-leather-jacket.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0_j8ZxX37jk/VHKgY4kqAiI/AAAAAAAACf0/H0G-f17sCZw/s1600/james-dean-leather-jacket.jpg" height="316" width="320" /></a>Each fall and winter, leather hits the streets and every fashion magazine proclaims it to be THE trend of the season. It's no surprise that this "trend" never fades.<br />
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Made famous by rebel rousers James Dean, Marlon Brando, and The Fonz, leather jackets gained popularity in the 40s and 50s as actors wore them on the big screen. Although they didn't outfit the masses until the later-half of the 20th century, leather jackets were worn by aviators and military men in the early and mid 1900s. They strategically chose leather for the "bomber jacket" to protect pilots from extreme weather conditions while cruising at high altitudes and often incorporated fleece for added warmth.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Gucci Fall 2014</td></tr>
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On November 26, 1967, <i>The Observer</i> published an article that began with, "Leather and suede used to be thought of as typical point-to-point gear for middle-aged, middle-class women." Describing current leather as "smarter, younger and cheaper" than in previous years, it went on to say, "This year's leather look is brisk battledress, sinister SS, or early aviator: coats are worn with high leather boots and gauntlet gloves."<br />
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A few years later, Debbie Harry casually posed on the beach wearing a leather vest. Then in 1974, <i>Punk</i> magazine founder Legs McNeil reacted to The Ramones' dress choice, "They were all wearing these black leather jackets…They looked so striking. These guys were not hippies. This was something completely new.”<br />
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Just like in years past, leather is abundant. From Paris to New York, everyone from Kate Moss to Gwyneth Paltrow is roaming the streets in leather leggings, jackets, tops, skirts, and dresses. The edgy textile is not limited to black/brown or fall/winter these days. It is seen in all colors of the rainbow and even on spring dresses. A little something for everyone.<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6ICPSv9vPFQ/VHPdNcUW0mI/AAAAAAAACgg/Y7yWoMB7NLo/s1600/leather2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6ICPSv9vPFQ/VHPdNcUW0mI/AAAAAAAACgg/Y7yWoMB7NLo/s1600/leather2.jpg" height="320" width="109" /></a><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7XyOMZ7D5L4/VHPdM1o5UNI/AAAAAAAACgc/BBf9bH3B7gE/s1600/leather1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7XyOMZ7D5L4/VHPdM1o5UNI/AAAAAAAACgc/BBf9bH3B7gE/s1600/leather1.jpg" height="320" width="153" /></a>Apart from a pair of pants or a jacket here and there, my leather purchases have mostly consisted of shoes, handbags, and belts. A fabric shop that I recently discovered nearby sells hides. I purchased a black one for the bargain price of $30 and had enough to incorporate it into three designs: <a href="http://www.ironasneeded.blogspot.com/2014/10/a-haute-halloween.html">a dress</a>, a skirt, and a top.<br />
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This week, I paired the leather with a novelty wool to make a skirt. The way I patterned the piece makes it wearable two ways: either with the zip in the back or on the side. I also made a blue top and added leather at the neckline with three buttons. For a price like that, you can't go wrong.<br />
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Made in Colorado</div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6040028431886930867.post-89224907142841094712014-10-27T21:06:00.002-05:002014-10-28T09:12:32.933-05:00A Haute Halloween"No matter how many modern parts I do, people still refer to me as Mrs. Costume Drama."<br />
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-Helena Bonham Carter<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Commes des Garçons Spring 2015</td></tr>
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Halloween is lurking around the corner and couture costume ideas are aplenty. From Marie Antoinette to a twenties flapper to Marilyn Monroe, there are numerous options for the fashion-conscious. Heidi Klum is the master of creative costumes. Over the years, she has transformed herself into Cleopatra, Lady Godiva, a crow, and a plethora of other extravagant characters. When it comes to Halloween festivities, she spares no expense.<br />
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<i>The New York Times</i> posted an article this week on their fashion and style page about Halloween costumes inspired by high fashion. My favorite look shown on their Pinterest board is an extraordinary red hooded cape that graced the runways at the recent Comme des Garçons spring 2015 show. Little Red Riding Hood, eat your heart out.<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-RGXDKcaU5sQ/VE7vN-QxRaI/AAAAAAAACdo/7MuG1aC9InM/s1600/7cf724f8198f54d5357f60c2a9afb08d.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-RGXDKcaU5sQ/VE7vN-QxRaI/AAAAAAAACdo/7MuG1aC9InM/s1600/7cf724f8198f54d5357f60c2a9afb08d.jpg" height="320" style="cursor: move;" width="255" /></a>If you prefer an understated Halloween ensemble, there are many ways to pull together a chic look while avoiding an actual costume. I was recently perusing online retailers and found some great pieces that embrace the spirit of Halloween without being too literal. One of them is <a href="http://www.net-a-porter.com/product/472223/Alexander_McQueen/hooded-velvet-trimmed-wool-cape">Alexander McQueen's black hooded cape</a> sold on net-a-porter.com. It is a great statement piece that can be worn past October 31st without looking gimmicky (if I had a spare $2,695 lying around, I would snap it up).<br />
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Another combination for the costume-shy is <a href="http://www.net-a-porter.com/product/466239/Michael_Kors/stretch-wool-and-silk-georgette-gown">Michael Kors' black stretch-wool and silk-georgette gown</a> paired with <a href="http://www.net-a-porter.com/product/466729/Bottega_Veneta/suede-pumps">Bottega Veneta suede pumps</a>. It screams dark and mysterious and wouldn't be out of place on Mrs. Count Dracula. My favorite Haloween-esque couture design is a <a href="http://www.net-a-porter.com/product/446718/Oscar_de_la_Renta/silk-satin-maxi-skirt">skirt by Oscar de la Renta</a>. I can just imagine Lily Munster wearing it while at a gala with Herman by her side.<br />
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Over the past few days, I have been on a sewing binge and designed a dress, a striped top, and a cape. I used a polka-dot wool boucle and added a bit of leather to make a dress. It was the first time I have ever bought a real leather hide and I could easily become obsessed. It was easy to work with, blended well with the wool fabric, and does not fray.<br />
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I also used the polka-dot fabric and combined it with a black camel's wool to create a cape. Then I layered it over the striped top and paired it with some pants that I made last year. The best part about these separates is that they are all interchangeable for mixing and matching. You won't see me dressed as a vampire this Halloween, but I will be donning a cape.<br />
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Made in Colorado<br />
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6040028431886930867.post-87401137034312135722014-10-02T12:49:00.000-05:002014-10-27T22:43:53.768-05:00From Pinball Games to Woodstock: Inspiration for Spring 2015 Collections"I want to empower women. I want people to be afraid of the women I dress."<br />
-Alexander McQueen<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px; text-align: center;">Marchesa Spring 2015 RTW</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Givenchy Spring 2015 RTW</td></tr>
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At London fashion week, the design duo for Marchesa, Georgina Chapman and Keren Craig, celebrated the label's ten year anniversary at their spring 2015 ready-to-wear show. Chapman and Craig wanted to honor British icons. Fittingly, Georgia May Jagger, daughter of The Rolling Stones frontman Mick Jagger, was the first to grace the catwalk. “She really embodies the spirit of the new collection,” said Chapman. “It’s a little bit gypsy, a little bit Woodstock and a little bit rock ’n’ roll.” Marchesa is known for their feminine chiffon dresses adorned with flowers and ruffles. Although inspired by the late sixties, this collection was still full of romanticism that Marchesa is known for.<br />
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In contrast, the late Alexander McQueen liked to explore the dark side when designing clothing and had <span style="background-color: white;">a theatrical flare. Creative director Sara</span>h Burton looked to McQueen's love of kimonos for her inspiration this season. She incorporated exaggerated chrysanthemum prints on pretty dresses and paired them with gladiator sandals. Apart from the disturbing face masks, this collection was astonishing from start to finish.<br />
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In Paris this week, Riccardo Tisci for Givenchy turned out a truly amazing spring collection. The styling was nothing less than perfect with black over-the-knee boots and free-flowing, boho-esque locks. When asked what his inspiration for the collection was, Tisci replied, “Flipper—the old computer pinball game—the black-and-white graphics.” How can you go wrong with lace, leather, riding coats, and pinball?<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-kIRQEkoCvOI/VC2OYzrjIxI/AAAAAAAACbQ/wrEnPISs46w/s1600/2014-10-01%2B22.48.33.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-kIRQEkoCvOI/VC2OYzrjIxI/AAAAAAAACbQ/wrEnPISs46w/s1600/2014-10-01%2B22.48.33.jpg" height="320" width="150" /></a>This week I wanted to make a complete look that would be fitting for the ever-changing day-to-day autumn weather. Using a Rag & Bone cotton woven fabric, I sewed a dress with a playful silhouette and included cap sleeves. Then looking to the Seargent Pepper suits worn by The Beatles as inspiration, I designed a lined coat using a Marc Jacobs wool blend tweed. Beatles<span style="background-color: white; color: #252525; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 22px;"> </span>biographer Jonathan Gould wrote that the Sgt. Pepper costumes "spoofed the vogue in Britain for military fashions." My coat is not as military-inspired or outlandish as the ones worn by John, Paul, Ringo, and George, but it is brightly colored, knee-length, has an exaggerated mandarin collar, and is fitted with a slight flare at the bottom. Puts me in the mood for "Lucy in the Sky with Diamonds."<br />
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Made in Colorado</div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6040028431886930867.post-47549305146982143752014-09-17T22:44:00.000-05:002014-09-17T22:44:40.737-05:00Jumpsuit Fever"Anyone can get dressed up and glamorous, but it is how people dress in their days off that are the most intriguing."<br />
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-Alexander Wang</div>
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Jumpsuits have made a comeback the past few years and are still going strong in the land of high fashion. The adult onesie has been around for the past century and embraced by luminaries such as Elvis, Marilyn Monroe, and Audrey Hepburn for its style and comfort. Even Winston Churchill was famous for his "siren suit" that noted London tailors Turnbull & Asser custom made for him in blue, red, and green velvet. The one-piece-wonder is not only fashionable, but is also worn for its practicality by skydivers, race car drivers, and stage performers.<br />
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Along with other online luxury fashion retailers, <a href="http://matchesfashion.com/">matchesfashion.com</a> has a great selection of jumpsuits for fall 2014 including designs by Balenciaga, Stella McCartney, and Rag & Bone. One of my favorites is a <a href="http://www.matchesfashion.com/product/185204">Saint Laurent wool-gabardine tuxedo jumpsuit</a> listed for $3,291 that is currently sold out. "The great thing about the jumpsuit is you can embrace the high-low method of dressing – wear them with brogues or heels," says matchesfashion.com's buying manager, Suzanne Pendlebury. "They make an outfit in one, which makes life easy."<br />
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Others think the jumpsuit is giving the LBD a run for its money. It is versatile and easily transitions from day to evening. It is even being seen as a replacement for gowns on the red carpet at award shows. There is something utilitarian about the one piece look that acts somewhat as a uniform and feels empowering to wear.<br />
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With New York and London fashion weeks behind us and the beginning of fashion week in Milan, we have already seen a multitude of jumpsuits walk down the runways for spring 2015. Marc Jacobs showed loose fitting one piece militaristic pantsuits in shades of green while Yigal Azrouël opted for a more feminine lace version.<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1i5qBmqafpY/VBnoTkNt0rI/AAAAAAAACZk/MZYDRPuzSMM/s1600/IMG_6563.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1i5qBmqafpY/VBnoTkNt0rI/AAAAAAAACZk/MZYDRPuzSMM/s1600/IMG_6563.JPG" height="320" width="131" /></a><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-GuiivY6fw_4/VBnoRbgsiVI/AAAAAAAACZc/-OesMZ2zDOA/s1600/IMG_6562.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-GuiivY6fw_4/VBnoRbgsiVI/AAAAAAAACZc/-OesMZ2zDOA/s1600/IMG_6562.JPG" height="320" width="134" /></a>This week I designed my first pants jumpsuit. I've made one piece shorts playsuits before, but never attempted pants. As I just tweaked the pattern I recently made for a black and white top, it was quick and easy to construct the top portion of the jumpsuit. I added some blue piping and included four blue buttons down the sides of the cuffs for a pop of color.<br />
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Constructing this garment was all about measurements and getting the proportions just right for the perfect fit. It is a great transition piece for fall and will lessen the time I have to spend picking out separates in the closet (although more time spent zipping back up in the ladies' room).<br />
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Made in Colorado</div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6040028431886930867.post-44866640930245953172014-08-25T14:04:00.001-05:002014-08-25T14:07:09.371-05:00High Fashion Dolls and Mannequins Unite“The woman is the most perfect doll that I have dressed with delight and admiration.”<br />
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-Karl Lagerfeld<br />
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Behind every great collection is an enticing marketing campaign. My husband and I are what you would call magazine junkies. We look forward to the days when the latest issue of <i>Vogue</i>, <i>Harper's Bazaar</i>, <i>InStyle</i>, etc. (in his case, <i>Outside</i> and <i>Men's Journal</i>) arrive in the mail. There is something thrilling about opening a hot-off-the-press magazine and excitedly flipping through its glossy pages. Not only do I enjoy perusing the articles, but also poring over the ads.<br />
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Season after season, many fashion houses repeat the same old campaigns with little room for surprise - such as Calvin Klein's go-to black and white, Prada's vibrant colors with an artistic flare, and Dolce and Gabbana's luxury party scenes in the Italian countryside or by the sea. Rarely does an ad have the startling power to halt my incessant page flipping and cause me to take a second look. That's exactly what happened the first time I saw Alexander McQueen's 2014 spring/summer designs come to life in print.<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-BvEKh8Qw05k/U_pdxyzI0EI/AAAAAAAACXs/OTPcdPqGN5o/s1600/photo-6-2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-BvEKh8Qw05k/U_pdxyzI0EI/AAAAAAAACXs/OTPcdPqGN5o/s1600/photo-6-2.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a>The photo shoot starred Kate Moss - her first time to grace an Alexander McQueen ad - and was captured by photographer Steven Klein on the streets of East London. Inspired by the sixties thriller "Peeping Tom" by Michael Powell, the adverts had an overall dark and foreboding vibe. Maybe this had to do with the disturbing miniature Kate Moss doll clone with shockingly yellow hair that was wearing high fashion McQueen designs? Whatever it was, it was a marketing act of genius.<br />
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Although more than a little creepy, the Kate Moss figurine had nothing on the enormous Blythe dolls used in the display windows at Bottega Veneta stores worldwide to model their 2014 spring/summer collection. Creative Director Tomas Maier said, "The collection is about freshness and Blythe is known for her uniqueness as well as her sense of style, wears it effortlessly and with confidence. The result is surreal, reflecting a dynamic combination of elegance and modernity." </div>
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The dolls were created in the seventies and later bought by Hasbro. They are wildly popular in Japan and have freakishly large heads and eyes. It's not surprising that they drew a lot of attention for the Italian luxury goods house. </div>
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Quite a contrast to Alexander McQueen and Bottega Veneta's marketing strategies, Marc Jacobs chose minimalism for his 2014 fall campaign. At first glance, it looks as though mannequins are wearing his designs in the photographs. But in fact, models are strategically posed to mimic the lifelessness of mannequins. Although the Marc Jacobs print ads don't have the same impact as the peculiar dolls, they are still memorable, nonetheless.<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-OJD0AMFawH4/U_uIIU627pI/AAAAAAAACYE/FmHGVYYWZ4E/s1600/IMG_6460.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-OJD0AMFawH4/U_uIIU627pI/AAAAAAAACYE/FmHGVYYWZ4E/s1600/IMG_6460.JPG" height="320" width="119" /></a>In the last few weeks, I made a loose fitting dress out of a stunning rayon and silk jersey. I also crafted a top using a textured fabric that I have used time and time again. It is durable, washable, and feels like superhero suit fabric, not to mention that it's made in Italy. Using my dress form, I created a new pattern to give the top contrasting diagonal lines with the same fabric in white. Then I added an exposed white parka zipper down the back and paired it with high-waisted pants that I made with a subtle houndstooth pattern. Using the leftover fabric, I fashioned a matching cuff-like accessory to go with each look.<br />
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Made in Colorado</div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6040028431886930867.post-27091956195059929132014-07-16T18:24:00.000-05:002014-07-16T18:24:40.523-05:00From the Battlefield to the Bride"When I decided to get married at 40, I couldn't find a dress with the modernity or sophistication I wanted. That's when I saw the opportunity for a wedding gown business."<br />
-Vera Wang<br />
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Parachute Wedding Dress Worn </div>
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by Mrs. Hensinger in 1947</div>
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We are nearing the summit of peak wedding season. The average amount spent on a wedding dress is well over a grand and a Marchesa gown retails for close to $6,000 on net-a-porter.com. Quite a contrast from today's standards, brides-to-be in the 1940s had bigger concerns weighing on their minds than what type of cake they would eat or who would photograph their wedding. Many just hoped their fiancé would return home safely from the war.<br />
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War rations directly impacted fashion in the 1940s. Wool and cotton were commandeered for uniforms and other military supplies while silk and nylon were needed for parachutes. Hemlines rose and <a href="http://ironasneeded.blogspot.com/2012/06/wartime-swimsuits-storm-beaches.html">swimsuit necklines plunged</a> as designers consciously stuck to war limitations, which led to saving fifteen million yards of fabric. <i>Vogue</i> reported this figure in May 1943 while giving its approval of "The Narrow Look."<br />
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Those engaged to be married didn't have the luxury of popping by a shop and choosing a wedding dress consisting of silk, lace, and tulle. If they were lucky, a parachute might blow their way . . .<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-RADpHgnkLFY/U8G8cvVoeWI/AAAAAAAACV0/Evmj7ldNu_I/s1600/Adney01.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-RADpHgnkLFY/U8G8cvVoeWI/AAAAAAAACV0/Evmj7ldNu_I/s1600/Adney01.jpg" height="320" width="257" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mr. Reynolds with Mrs. Reynolds Wearing<br />
Her Parachute Silk Wedding Dress in 1946</td></tr>
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In 1944, Major Claude Hensinger, was returning with his crew from a bombing raid over Yowata, Japan, when his engine caught fire. Major Hensinger clung to the parachute that saved his life and later gave it to his girlfriend Ruth to use for her wedding gown when he proposed. Ruth wanted her dress to resemble Vivien Leigh's in <i>Gone with the Wind</i>. She hired a seamstress to complete the look and became Mrs. Hensinger on July 19, 1947. Ruth signed over her dress to the Smithsonian in the 1990s.<br />
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Joyce Adney and Adrien Reynolds's story was not much different than the Hensingers'. According to the National WWII Museum of New Orleans, Mr. Reynolds and his fellow Marines stumbled upon several unused Japanese parachutes while clearing out some caves in 1944. He sent one of the parachutes back to his bride-to-be Joyce for safekeeping. <br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-6SCk6kER2Qs/U4Y0DQyp4HI/AAAAAAAACQ0/egD7ZTuBINQ/s1600/IMG_5974.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-6SCk6kER2Qs/U4Y0DQyp4HI/AAAAAAAACQ0/egD7ZTuBINQ/s1600/IMG_5974.JPG" height="320" width="149" /></a>Just as many other brides did at the time, Joyce also had her wedding dress constructed out of parachute silk. Her mother, a seamstress who lived in another state, had Joyce measure her bust and waist using strings. She then mailed the strings to her mother to use as guides in sewing the dress for her big day. Although Joyce didn't have the opportunity to try on a multitude of Vera Wang and Marchesa dresses, the future Mrs. Reynolds would have quite a story to tell.<br />
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I didn't make a wedding dress, but I did incorporate two white parachute buckles into my latest design. The jacket and shorts are made out of a blue organic twill from Mood Fabrics. I included square cap sleeves and two belts (made out of the same twill fabric) and attached the parachute buckles. I also made a pair of matching high-waisted shorts to complete the look. This summer shorts suit may not have a romantic war-related backstory, but I'm just happy I didn't have to wait for a parachute to fall from the sky to make it with.<br />
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Made in ColoradoUnknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6040028431886930867.post-30580371874915783422014-05-26T21:31:00.001-05:002014-05-26T23:11:56.784-05:00Coco's Little Black Dress"A black so deep, so noble that once seen, it stays in the memory forever."<br />
- Coco Chanel<br />
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Coco Chanel once said, "Dress women in black or white at a ball. They will catch the eye." And she did just that. Chanel designed a little something special in 1926 that would last for generations to come . . . a little black dress. Yes, there were other black dresses at the time, but not fashionable ones worn outside of a funeral or the servants' quarters of a stately home.<br />
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In the 1920s, Chanel spent an evening at the opera and was sickened by all the flashy colors worn. She then decided to dress all those high society women in black. In November 1926, <i>Vogue</i> dubbed Coco's new little wonder the "Ford dress" in honor of Henry Ford's monchromatic Model T. Like the pioneering American vehicle, It was simple and it was fabulous.<br />
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Chanel said, "Before me, no one would have dared to dress in black." After the famous dress was unveiled, it soon became known as "the modern woman's uniform" and everyone was eager to replicate Chanel's style.<br />
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Karl Lagerfeld replicated the dress close to its original form for Chanel's 1999 fall collection. Its modern and chic design made it as relevant then as it was in the twenties.<br />
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After purchasing matching black and white Italian textured fabrics, I worked on getting the bottom of my dress just right. My aim was to perfectly drape it in front while angling it down in the back so that the contrasting white would show through.<br />
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Although I had never designed a dress silhouette like it before, it really worked out well and I was happy with the end result. It is simple, yet timeless as Coco Chanel's original little black dress was. Just as Coco said, "A well-tailored dress suits everyone."<br />
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Made in Kansas.Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6040028431886930867.post-44199985114201946512014-04-22T20:26:00.003-05:002014-04-22T20:26:58.003-05:00Coco's Tweeds"A lot of serious work goes into successful frivolity."<br />
Coco Chanel<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-DP45R6pFJPk/U1cMW2deiRI/AAAAAAAACJw/lxG0ZjKANAM/s1600/coco-chanel-working.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-DP45R6pFJPk/U1cMW2deiRI/AAAAAAAACJw/lxG0ZjKANAM/s1600/coco-chanel-working.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a>Once upon a time Gabrielle "Coco" Chanel said, "We seem to forget that couture is a craft." Unlike today, when a celebrity's name is attached to a fashion line to merely increase sales, Coco Chanel took pride in her craft of design and was a master tailor who understood a woman's body. She was such a perfectionist that she would spend countless hours fitting a sleeve and not stop until the fit was flawless. "The day before the show, I am capable of changing everything if a detail bothers me, or if I have the impression that everything is already out of date!" she said in 1959.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Chanel Spring 2014 Collection</td></tr>
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Coco was always looking to the future of fashion and what would make a woman feel elegant and comfortable. Karl Lagerfeld, Chanel's creative director, has said, "Yes, the old Coco would have been shocked by a lot of things I did, but I had to do it, to keep the label in time with the times." It's a contradiction because Coco was nothing if not a modern woman. She suntanned and cut her hair short before either was popular and designed clothing that set trends for decades to come.<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vpaa4H5sfOM/U1cPNAC8K0I/AAAAAAAACKI/TfwHFihAUjA/s1600/2014-01-30+23.32.15.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vpaa4H5sfOM/U1cPNAC8K0I/AAAAAAAACKI/TfwHFihAUjA/s1600/2014-01-30+23.32.15.jpg" height="320" width="143" /></a>Another obsession of Coco's was tweed. She fell in love with the versatile fabric in the 1920s because of its suppleness and how the mix of woven colors matched the skies and landscapes of England. Lagerfeld has incorporated tweed into many collections, including the one for spring 2014. Although he claimed that he's "not interested in history," Lagerfeld still includes many of the design details that Coco made famous, such as the camellia flower, suits, and decorative buttons.<br />
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We often think of tweed as the fabric of choice for fall and winter coats, skirts, and suits, but Chanel's new springtime tweeds are a refreshing blend of colors and design. When describing the new collection Lagerfeld said, “This is for daily life. I wanted color, and a fraîcheur. It’s a very happy mood.”<br />
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I purchased a plaid wool boucle with pops of color that would typically be used for a coat. Instead, I used it to make a dress that works perfectly for spring. I'd like to think Coco would approve.<br />
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MADE IN KANSAS</div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6040028431886930867.post-8264151423316566232014-03-03T15:44:00.000-06:002014-03-03T15:44:39.383-06:00Billowing Bonfires Inspire and New Collections Light up the Runways"You're only as good as your last collection, which is an enormous pressure."<div>
-John Galliano<br /><div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px; text-align: center;">Marchesa Fall 2014</td></tr>
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Fashion month is nearing an end as press and style enthusiasts make a mad dash to see the last few remaining shows in Paris this week. Each collection -- from New York to Milan -- has exhibited its own individual charm, but there are a few elements that have been seen over and over again on the runways for fall 2014: furs, texture, knits, and shades of green.<br />
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Georgina Chapman and Keren Craig for Marchesa are master designers when it comes to capturing femininity and their latest collection was no exception. Inspired by "billowing bonfires" and the Scottish Highlands, the dresses were full of romanticism, while adorned with lace and feathers and paired with pointed-toe flats.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px; text-align: center;">Balenciaga Fall 2014</td></tr>
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The two friends, who met at Chelsea College of Art and Design, also combined lace and fur in a genius way to create a soft and feminine sweater. They described their muse as "our Scottish woman who's a little bit more disheveled in winter, with this static hair like she's running through the fields in the Highlands."<span style="background-color: white; color: #2d2d2d; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px;"> </span><br />
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Creative Director Bill Gaytten for John Galliano created a collection inspired by Marc Newson's furniture designs. Printed velvet with a retro design, high-waisted pleated pants, and fur all came into play. The next time a passerby tells you that your dress reminds them of their grandmother's couch . . . well, you can thank Gaytten for that.<br />
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After revealing his collection in Brooklyn, Alexander Wang headed to Paris for the Balenciaga show. "I go back to pieces that feel familiar—it's a sweater, it's a wrap dress, it's a raincoat—and ask myself, 'How do I make it feel special?'" he said. An expert when it comes to knits, Wang incorporated them into the collection and manipulated the fabric in a unique way, which led to inventive shapes and silhouettes. He also strategically placed eye-catching zippers on tops, coats, pants, and dresses and accessorized the models with luxurious carrier bags. "I love the idea that something as simple as a shopping bag can come in croc!” Wang explained.<br />
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This week I experimented with creating a new sleeve pattern with a little extra volume. After I had perfected the sleeve, I incorporated it into a lined jacket made out of an Italian brocade. I paired it with high-waisted shorts that I made a few summers ago because I love the idea of shorts with a jacket for the transitional seasons.<br />
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I also made a simple, yet custom-fitted, dress using an organic cotton twill in a military green that will perfectly coincide with <i>the</i> color for next fall. After this harsh winter, springtime and all the refreshing dresses that go with it cannot come soon enough!<br />
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MADE IN KANSAS </div>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6040028431886930867.post-23620566060147813772013-12-31T11:53:00.000-06:002014-01-02T10:24:16.273-06:00Capitol Couture: Effie Trinket's Delusions of Grandeur<div>
"Happy Hunger Games! And may the odds be ever in your favor!"</div>
-Effie Trinket<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GeLqtG4jAec/UsG60T8JluI/AAAAAAAABpE/5-ZjtHTvcmw/s1600/Downloads11.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GeLqtG4jAec/UsG60T8JluI/AAAAAAAABpE/5-ZjtHTvcmw/s320/Downloads11.jpg" width="256" /></a>Avant garde-clad Effie Trinket, a character brilliantly crafted by Suzanne Collins, takes the spotlight (the fashion spotlight that is) in the latest installment of <i><a href="http://www.thehungergamesexplorer.com/us/epk/hunger-games/">The Hunger Games</a></i> trilogy. Actress Elizabeth Banks beautifully captures Effie's eccentric behavior and stuns in designs chosen by the film's costume designer Trish Summerville.<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-tNIeYLbGGm0/UsG7n4Xzj2I/AAAAAAAABpM/MtH3h7q5yyM/s1600/20b1f70d602ff14138c12cb262393548.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-tNIeYLbGGm0/UsG7n4Xzj2I/AAAAAAAABpM/MtH3h7q5yyM/s400/20b1f70d602ff14138c12cb262393548.jpg" width="150" /></a>With a resume that includes <i>The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo</i>, Summerville already knew the pressures of living up to readers' expectations, a task much harder than dressing actors for an original film. "When you’re reading a book, each individual person gets to imagine each character. What they look like, as well as what they’re wearing and what they do, and how they act. So I just had to take the approach of what I thought would be visually appealing, ‘cause a lot of things that are written don’t necessarily translate onto film." explained Summerville.<br />
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The unassuming drab clothing worn in the post-apopcalyptic districts and the contrasting fantastical designs of the frivolous capitol crowd ranged from hand-crafted pieces to show-stopping looks chosen from past Alexander McQueen collections. One of the most talked about dresses worn by Effie is McQueen's butterfly dress paired with Iris van Herpen boots with soles adorned with fangs. The look was punctuated with miniature butterflies perched on the tips of her eyelashes and glued to her arms. Not something one could easily pull off on a winter Kansas day.<br />
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-zqa7S5-7nGI/UsHgmG3pnAI/AAAAAAAABp0/4N2o0EqCdfg/s1600/catching-fire-katniss-peeta-effie.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-zqa7S5-7nGI/UsHgmG3pnAI/AAAAAAAABp0/4N2o0EqCdfg/s320/catching-fire-katniss-peeta-effie.jpg" style="cursor: move;" width="320" /></a><br />
Effie Trinket's costumes were over-the-top, but Katniss Everdeen, played by Jennifer Lawrence, also wore impressive show-stoppers, including her white wedding dress that transformed into a black mockingjay costume as it was engulfed in flames. When asked about the mesmerizing gown, Summerville said, "I wanted to have a subliminal feel of flames and feathers to keep her the Girl on Fire while also representing the Mockingjay."<br />
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As with most things Hollywood, capitol couture is being capitalized. Summerville has partnered with one of my favorite fashion one stop shops, net-a-porter.com, to exclusively sell her <a href="http://www.net-a-porter.com/Shop/Search?keywords=capitol+couture">mini collection</a> inspired by the popular film. The collection includes a mockingjay printed silk chiffon dress for $550 and a black twill jumpsuit priced at $414 that you can imagine Katniss wearing in the arena. These pieces may not be worthy of Effie's outrageous style, but they are a little something for the masses.<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-iZe777aDObA/UsGzKl7jRFI/AAAAAAAABos/_IcTY9VSLZU/s1600/2013-12-29+09.35.40.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-iZe777aDObA/UsGzKl7jRFI/AAAAAAAABos/_IcTY9VSLZU/s320/2013-12-29+09.35.40.jpg" width="128" /></a>Although I am slightly obsessed by Effie Trinket's frocks, you won't see me traipsing about covered in butterflies anytime soon. I did, however, make a few unique pieces this week with a modern vibe.<br />
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I designed a top that buttons up the side with a high collar, added red lace accents, and paired it with some basic skinny pants I sewed with ankle cuffs. I also made a black and white dress using an Italian fabric that I keep coming back to. It is stiff, durable, and could easily be transformed into a bat suit.<br />
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MADE IN KANSAS</div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6040028431886930867.post-20012319613632780302013-11-26T17:00:00.002-06:002014-01-02T10:25:14.003-06:00Much Ado About Plaid"Any self respecting Scot knows that a good tartan is the solution to everything: it tells you where you are, where you belong, who your friends and family are."<br />
-Trisha Telep, author<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-voJC0VytrWU/UpTHDKc8R7I/AAAAAAAABlY/L63hlHJxoec/s1600/tartan5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-voJC0VytrWU/UpTHDKc8R7I/AAAAAAAABlY/L63hlHJxoec/s320/tartan5.jpg" width="251" /></a>Prince Charles, lumberjacks, hipsters, rockers, and the fashion world unite with their common love for plaid this winter. There are many reasons why the classic pattern is in high rotation on the revolving trend carousel.<br />
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Some give all the credit to tartan-enthusiast Queen Victoria for bringing plaid to the masses. Not only did she don the traditional Scottish print herself in the 1800s, but she also draped the inside of Balmoral Castle in it.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Celine Fall 2013 Collection</td></tr>
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Fast forward to an article in <i>The Washington Reporter</i> on March 20, 1931, which advised that a plaid jacket was best paired with a plain skirt and that "women who have the manner to 'get away' with anything, however daring, will be seen in all plaid suits." Oh, how times have changed. Not only will head-to-toe plaid looks be worn this season, but also contrasting variations, as seen in <a href="http://ironasneeded.blogspot.com/2013/02/temperley-london-looks-to-hitchcocks.html">Emilia Wickstead's collection</a>. Others hopping on the bandwagon include Gucci, Dolce & Gabbana, Band of Outsiders, Marc by Marc Jacobs, and Vivienne Westwood.<br />
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Punk and plaid have always gone hand-in-hand, so it makes sense that some designers have included edgier looks in their collections. Karl Lagerfeld embellished his punk-inspired plaid with studs and leather. Whether you're shopping for a wool coat, a dress, wrapping paper, shoes, or an umbrella, you'll be sure to find everything your heart desires adorned with plaid.<br />
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Recently, I stepped inside a local fabric shop with one thing on my mind: plaid flannel. After rummaging the racks for a few minutes, I found a black and gray print perfect for making my husband a button down shirt.<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-65vt75AXsFM/UpTaUQyBRkI/AAAAAAAABl4/-EQ3UlZ1uOU/s1600/IMG_4826.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-65vt75AXsFM/UpTaUQyBRkI/AAAAAAAABl4/-EQ3UlZ1uOU/s320/IMG_4826.JPG" width="121" /></a><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-swMjjU-5qgw/UpTbIuJTl6I/AAAAAAAABmM/V_YdWpeAj6s/s1600/IMG_4850.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-swMjjU-5qgw/UpTbIuJTl6I/AAAAAAAABmM/V_YdWpeAj6s/s320/IMG_4850.JPG" width="129" /></a>If you've ever tackled a shirt like this with no pattern, you'll understand when I say that constructing it was no walk in the park. Aside from never doing menswear before, I also had never done a buttonhole. Just my luck then that the shirt needed 14. The buttonholes were a cinch (thanks, Brother sewing machine pre-set), but the "chimney plackets" near the cuffs of the sleeves were anything but.<br />
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With the leftover fabric, I designed a dress for myself. I was deliberate in my plaid placement to create an eye-catching pattern and sewed pockets into the side seams. And no, you won't be seeing us out and about in matching "his and hers" outfits.<br />
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MADE IN KANSAS</div>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6040028431886930867.post-44948172357405063072013-10-30T07:00:00.000-05:002014-01-02T10:25:37.319-06:00Cape Fear"This ensemble has a cape made of tufted coffin lining in a lovely shade of cemetery grey. This little number was very inexpensive. The fabric is made of black widows webs, and the underslip, pure unborn centipede."<br />
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-Lily Munster</div>
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Vampires and superheroes aren't the only ones donning capes this week. Fashionistas around the world are embracing the whimsical accessory that can make you feel mysterious, powerful, or part of a fairytale. Capes, popular for both costumes and everyday wear, have been around for centuries and continue to be a great accompaniment to any fall wardrobe.<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-8GgD3CxitbA/UnBqQM_W8WI/AAAAAAAABkI/k1zOH2VqWvY/s1600/Paul-Cape.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-8GgD3CxitbA/UnBqQM_W8WI/AAAAAAAABkI/k1zOH2VqWvY/s320/Paul-Cape.png" style="cursor: move;" width="243" /></a>Audrey Hepburn, Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis, and Paul McCartney gravitated towards the versatile outerwear. Hepburn wore a beautiful floor-sweeping blue cape in the movie <i>Funny Face </i>that was designed by Hubert de Givenchy. Once she had been draped in one of Givenchy's exquisite designs, she could never go back. “His are the only clothes in which I am myself,” she told reporters in 1956.<br />
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Jackie O selected an elegant white cape for her husband's inaugural ball in 1961. Ethel Frankau of Bergdorf Goodman created both the gown and the cape.<br />
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Capes can be dramatic or subtle and made out of anything and everything from organza to fur. Who wouldn't want to own an accessory that Red Riding Hood, Dracula, Superman, and the Queen of England can pull off?<br />
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Qknc_tliUg4/UnBqd0zc9TI/AAAAAAAABkU/YAJU2B76h0A/s1600/2013-10-28+06.44.04.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Qknc_tliUg4/UnBqd0zc9TI/AAAAAAAABkU/YAJU2B76h0A/s320/2013-10-28+06.44.04.jpg" width="107" /></a><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/--BldZRXul0M/UnBqZgSf0uI/AAAAAAAABkM/NvyzOqlK9to/s1600/2013-10-29+06.34.45.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/--BldZRXul0M/UnBqZgSf0uI/AAAAAAAABkM/NvyzOqlK9to/s320/2013-10-29+06.34.45.jpg" width="126" /></a><br />
My sons both opted to be superheroes this year for Halloween and lo and behold, they will be sporting capes. Having never owned one myself, I decided to make a cape using an exceptionally soft Marc Jacobs wool that I purchased from Mood. Not wanting my arms completely confined, I added openings adorned with zippers on both sides and a zipper up the middle. It was surprisingly easy to make. I learned how to insert the zippers within the garment via a YouTube how to video. I also found time to make a pair of pleated, tapered black pants and a red top with lace accents. Cheers to the cape!<br />
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MADE IN KANSAS</div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com