A Journal
A personal journal that invites readers to design their own journeys through the world - with travel, dress and taste.
My work is shaped by seasonal rhythms, cultural, sensory and historical awareness, and expressions of independence. Language is my first love.
Wearing colour well can become walking in art
Colour is foundational to the dressmaker’s art and the wearer’s style. Finding the right route, and a nuanced and depthful approach to colour takes time, but pays dividends.
The amalgamation of good ideas generously donated by history with innovative creativity
Allowing ones work to be influenced by the work of others is smart, innovative and creates depth.
Anni Albers on the weaving craft
Craft and art. Art and craft. Steps on the same spectrum.
Recycling the past - and from them creating something that lives again
Creativity is not a synonym for originality. We can recycle the past to inspire future directions, and there ain’t nothing wrong in that.
The occasional lies behind the creative journey
A good reminder that making something great matters more than having the perfect explanation.
Cutting is higher risk than sewing
A reminding quote that scissors in-hand is as much a part of successful garment construction as time at the machine. There are few ways to correct a faulty cut.
Workings of a Garment: a 1950’s rose-print cotton gown
Study and analysis of how this summer gown was constructed.
Square neck tiered midi dress in Liberty Heidi cotton poplin
Perfected the fit, and finally making with an expensive fabric, Liberty’s cotton poplin. Detailed dressmaking closeups.
Workings of a Garment: a Y2K Acne oversized long-line shirt
Learnings and inspiration for improving my dressmaking up to designer ready-to-wear standards.
Pleated blouse in wool flannel from 1970’s Gunne Sax pattern
After some significant design amendments, made a cropped blouse in micro-houndstooth wool flannel. Lessons learnt.
Puff-sleeve midi dress in khaki green linen-cotton twill from 1970’s pattern
Fourth make with this pattern, following several refinements on fit and pattern instructions.
Vogue September 1978
Striking fashion imagery from a vintage Vogue magazine, September 1978 edition.
Reflections on The Lost Art of Dress, by Linda Przybyszewski
A book about The Dress Doctors, a troop of women operating during the early-to-mid 20th century who advised American women on style and clothing throughout the Great Depression, World Wars and social upheaval.