Purposeful Dyeing

Many moons ago I acquired this jacket-styled cardigan. It was especially favoured because of the milky cream colour, but over the years it wasn't worn much at all. Before I donated this piece I wanted to see if I could get another use out of it by colour transformation. This knit was longing for an update in some magical way. And after investigating my crafting trunk I decided to dye it periwinkle! Well, it was that or a myrtle-green concoction, which I now have plans to use. 

Fortunately the cardigan was made of lovely fibres that took this dye quite well. My wants did not stray too far from the [high-aiming] mission. I simply wanted this knit dyed ... period! I was over the dull colour, I wanted something fresh. Don't get me wrong, I adore cream and white garments, however I wanted this in a soft spring colour. 

To Dye [or] NOT "Tie-Dye!"

To achieve designs or shades: Instead of scrunching or clamping the entire cardigan I folded it in fourths; dipping one half first front side down. Then, I let it sit for about 5min. Afterward, I dipped the other side, repeating the same way, only this time allowing it to sit for about 45min. to 1hr. (back side down with sleeves inside) slowly turning it every 10min.+/- or less. On the last turn I unfolded and let it sit a few more minutes before rinsing. Creating lighter and darker shades on the cardigan worked for me, because of its multiple seaming. Instead of just a solid flat colour, the shading gave it dimension and character. 

Test out various dyes and select your favourite. Some dyes work differently, i.e. plant vs. synthetic, but the dye that I used was one that I'm familiar with; therefore to get the result wanted the cardigan needed to be in a bit longer for this blended fabric. I'm happy with the result, because it actually looks like an entirely new cardigan! 

On the Fashion Tales 2012 to-do list: I obviously enjoy dyeing, so wanting to expand this art devotion is of great interest to me. I'm also working on a couple of other dyeing projects, and I've been learning techniques that were used centuries ago from great artists who are willing to show me a few tricks. I'll try to post them whenever I finish in the future whether good or indifferent. 

Certainly, if you want to take on a dyeing project do ask yourself one question, "Am I ready to get my hands dirty." Because, truth be told even with gloves it's not glamourous, yet the fun and final result is worthwhile if you're fond of a craftily slice of experimentation!

                                                

The goods: Cardigan-H&M,Skirt-Theory, Belt-F21, Chevron dress-SimplyChic SF, Boots-gifted(similar) 

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Youth Talent, Industry Approved

Christian Adamsen, fashion designer and entrepreneur from Vejen, Denmark creates feminine clothing with a luxury aesthetic.

Not exactly a new kid on the block, Adamsen has been sewing since he was 12. It would be a delayed notion to say that he’s just a star in the making, as this self-taught designer has clearly exceeded a typical teen-aged pupil with an artistic devotion. Then again, what exactly is a “typical teen” these days? Certainly, there are young blogging stars, painters, and even musical wonders.  However, it’s great to see designing youth making impressions in an often cut-throat economy.

At 16, Adamsen has a direct focus on an evolving market, specialising in an industry that literally affects everyone in some way. Whether it’s through a trickling effect from the runway or mere inspiration worn, it begins with forms of art. 

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“There are a lot of Danish designers in Denmark; if you have a technique learned in school you do it one way … but also my artistic fashion career has taken off quite rapidly. You learn things as you progress,” says Adamsen. The unconventional designer actually credits his fashion learning from YouTube tutorials, and reading books, though presently he also has a helpful patternmaking mentor.

After speaking with Adamsen about his eponymous label, there was stirring moments when listening to the acute designer express his passion, especially when talking about constructing gowns that make women feel glamourous.  

“One of my most proud designs is a beautiful dress that I made for the Danish celebrity, Sarah (Louise), a long ball gown with layers, silk chiffon, and corset.  I am very proud of that, says Adamsen.” 

In his creations you’ll find dresses with graphic prints that are carefully printed by one of Denmark’s fine detailed printers, a working relationship that’s manifested over time. “I work on the prints in Photoshop and Illustrator … the result was beautifully graphic prints that read as a sophisticated look, says Adamsen.

“The next collection is all about luxury,” says the designer (Think Dubai, Egypt’s gold colouring, and silks.) However, for the fall 2012 collection, “I’m inspired by the moon, snow, [and] crystals. It will be more dramatic with deep reds and black crystals. I have a jewellery maker making a corset in jewellery,” says Adamsen.

Until recently, Adamsen’s full collection has all been produced by himself, but for the impending line it will be the first time being produced by other people. So what’s next? The designer will graduate this year and will continue working on his flourishing label, which will hopefully include expanding within the UK and US boutiques in the future.

       (Above) Sarah Louise wearing Adamsen's design.

Adamsen’s designs are available on Not Just a Label as well as Trendsales. In addition, you may view his new collection showcasing at the upcoming SS-2013 Copenhagen Fashion Week.

For more information visit: www.christianadamsen.dk

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The Modern Gentry

Tweed. Plaid. Hounds-tooth. Actually, all types of textures and patterns forever seem to influence me in some way. The powerful balance of wearing two contrasting patterns can often be satisfying. 


I've always appreciated strong patterns and fabrics, and love it especially when used in womenswear. Specifically when they're used in wide-legged trousers, fitted blazers, or even a long overcoat. Oh, how I long to inherit the old jackets and coats of my grandfathers. I also wouldn't mind possessing a few original buttons that I'd likely use in DIY crafting sessions.

How does one wear historic patterns or silhouettes (think hunting and shooting apparel), or some that are normally tied strictly to menswear? Well, fortunately, there are ways of achieving a modern look when wearing these patterns while maintaining your individual style. 


The genuine sophistication of certain patterns can be tailored to a modern-casual ensemble without decreasing its ingrained refinement. For example, today, one might combine a favourite jean or feminine blouse. However, I gravitated toward the accessories department.

                                                 

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What are some of your favourite patterns, and textures? And are you a wearer of them or frankly an admirer?

Also, check out my newly designed clutch!


The goods:  Tweed jacket-charity shop, plaid hat-c/o Goorin brothers, Jeans-Miss Selfridge, Loafers-Wanted, Turquoise wooden necklace-SF flea market, Cardigan & stripe shirt- H&M, Rabbit pocketwatch-Etsy, Envelope clutch-Ladyofashion 

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DIY: The Glam Brooch

Oh, I feel the presence upon me ... the textural sparkle and twinkles of gems, and you know what that means? It's time to get glamourous! Understanding that for "some" of us that means just about everyday. As for me, well I've recently been eager to create a glam brooch, a versatile trim to add to a favourite hat or blazer.


After gathering a few remnants of fabric that I initially regarded toss worthy; of course I decided to grace them with one last look ― only to find an end use for the sheer pieces. Enter, the glam brooch. Enjoy!                          

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Materials needed:
Leather or PU
Glue-gun
Scissors
Small scraps/1X1 pieces of sheer material
Clear all-purpose glue/Sealant
Gems, stones, acrylic beads, etc.
Loose glitter 
Brooch pin back 
Empty stone settings (optional) Easier way to manually place fabric around gem)
Sewing machine/Needle & thread (either)

Click images for zoom

Cut a rectangular piece of leather to size preferred. Mine is approx. 3" x 1.5" or so.
Fold pieces in half or sandwhich them together (with fabric face-to-face), stitch all around rectangular shape or whatever shape that you create. (If you don't want to use a sewing machine, with right sides up, carefully glue your pieces together. Or by folding in each inside edge of the leather use a needle and thread to make a whipstich or straight stitch around the leather.)

Next, for visual sake I arranged my gems on the leather beforehand to get an idea of what I wanted.

Take a circular cut piece of fabric (lace, or sheer, or netting material), slightly larger than each gemstone, and one by one cover a gem. If you use a larger size or square sheer piece make sure to twist the bottom ends and tuck underneath, still leaving it fairly flat on the bottom. Holding in place, glue back bottom of gem. Let dry. (If you use hot glue wait a few minutes.) *You can carefully place each covered gem on wax paper until dry. Cut excess material from gem back. Repeat steps on each gem that you want covered with fabric.

I only wanted a few gems covered to give my brooch character. Place a small amount of glue on the leather areas that you want your gems to be positioned, then place each gem on glued area. Let dry completely. 

Use scissors to cut around the shape of your brooch, carefully cutting in-between the spaces of the gems that are hanging along outter edge from leather. Hence, I've made an irregular shape (for the body of the brooch) by using teardrop, square and circular sized gems, along with other various shapes. Take sealant or all-pupose glue to dab small amounts atop the gems. Lightly sprinkle brooch with glitter to add a glam effect. Let it sit to dry. Afterward, brush a coat of sealant/clear glue to lock-in the glitter.

Lastly, use glue to adhere the metal pin backing to the brooch. You may also use a clip backing or add a clip to the pin back, making your brooch more versatile, additionally as a hair clip or hat adornment.

I loved it so much that I made a second version! 

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Foot-Prints

Who doesn't love a great print, one that wakes your feet up in loud or charming hues? And, with each step your feet receiving a pep-talk to parade the streets on an early morning. Whether animal inspired or an enchanting floral, prints have evolved greatly.


Patterned and printed footwear have conquered the territory from tops and bottoms to, now must-have complimentary outfit companions ― and deem themselves of much importance as function. Although, there has been hazy areas in the "function" department recently, leaning toward an elite high-tower instead of a stable home of practicality. 

 
We've seen the comeback of the printed sole stylishly pouncing the catwalks in many prior seasons. They are the dazzle in breaking the ice with not your typically generic intro or selling soundbite. Rather, your sole conversing footwear is the new elevator pitch. 


Shoes telling the story of good tastes, clever shopping strategies, daring abilities, and perhaps the goings on behind the boundaries of one's closet. Why not, right? It's often necessary to interject a busy heel with an ensemble in need of a pick-me-up! What better way to show a slice of your personality than with shoes.


Let's face it, shoes [often] are the accessory!
Printed soles can brighten a fashion heart. Shoes generally may even alter the tone of your day, especially when being well-received from strangers. We search, stare, maybe compare prices and buy! Then, all it takes is one strut, prance, or glide across a surface to bond us with a specific print or sole of choice. Witnesses are present and whether silently admiring or vociferously detesting the type that we've chosen, it exemplifies our style. A reflection in the manner of our dress ... if worn on any occasion.


So, what do your footprints look like this season?  

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The Culture Club

Undoubtedly inspiration comes in various ways for me. Thus, I managed to muster items that I haven't worn in a while. The gathering session did not take long, because I halted at one of my favourite cardigans. The colourblocked cozy knit with original elbow patches! Oh yes, I do fancy the patches, in fact, I've several articles of clothing that sport the elbow patch very well ... in my opinion. 

A fitted retro blazer and vintage tweed jacket comes to mind when instantly thinking of patched styles from my wardrobe. Even a few professors or liberty uniform elements may abruptly enter one's thoughts when pondering about who wore past patches. Though, in earlier times it was more for functional purposes and less of a fashion statement. 

But, the beauty in keeping garments that you love is that it may exceed any fashion cycle, resurface within years or decades! I decided to bring back a worldly medley of what is keeping me warm and styling today; which also includes my latest crafting piece, a convertible hat made from vintage fur. Not quite the ushanka, but obviously inspired from one.

Throw in some tulle, lace, and a vintage lustrous bag ... well then I believe we have my cultured day look! Are you donning any different threads this weekend to stay warm and comfortable during your leisure activities?

Wishing you a wonderful weekend!

The goods: Handbag-vintage, Lace skirt-seen here, Retro cardigan-charity shop, Leg warmers-gifted, Leather boots-Pam/Nordstroms, Tweed/leather gloves-Target, Vintage fur hat-Ladyofashion, leather suitcase-seen here.

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