I’ve finally decided I’ve been designing for way too long without being able to sew my own designs and it’s time to put my money where my mouth is! After taking a basic sewing class and doing some self-teaching, I put myself on a crash course to learn how to sew by committing to 3 looks for this year’s student fashion show at my school. Last year. I participated as a designer and model but because I lacked sewing expertise, all of my looks were created by cutting up other things and putting them together like stylish frankenstein monsters.

This year, I wanted to create my looks from scratch- I got some lessons in patternmaking, and purchased some basic patterns which I modified to fit my designs.

I am creating 3 corset/skirt ensembles, each with a different theme. I’ve worked on all 3 but am at different levels with each one. I have until April 25th- that is 22 days- to finish them and I’m hoping for the best!

 

LOOK #1: Burlesque Inspired Corset of Pink Slipper Satin, with Black Lace and Tulle Pleats (aka “Jessica” corset)

I desiged this look way back in 2006. I tried to make my own version of it back then before I knew how to sew, attempting to draft my own pattern and put it together. It came out sort of like a really pretty, lace, pink… tube. It did not flatter my model whatsoever, or even fit her. But I still loved the design and years later, I learned how to sew, re-designed it, PURCHASED a pattern and modified it slightly.It is now almost done (unfortunately I didn’t take pictures yet) and it looks WONDERFUL! It fits, the details are beautiful, it has some very minor flaws but it sure isn’t bad for my first real corset.

STILL NEEDS:

-hooks and eyes

-ribbon lace-up in the back

-minor finishing touches (trimming thread, etc)

-a skirt to go with it!

 

LOOK #2: L’amour Satin Steampunk “Military” Corset with tulle ruffles and double-breasted appearance (sort of looks like a sexy navy uniform with frosting on top)

 

This was one of those random ideas that sort of spontanieously popped into my head. I wanted my second look to be different from the first, but I had a dull pink satin I also wanted to play with… and ta-da! I will provide pictures when it’s done. The color palette is warm and pastel. It is a light, dullish pink with antique metal details, tulle ruffles in ivory and antique gold colors. Very Victorian color pallette.

STILL NEEDS:

 -Boning

-Outer material connected to lining

-Ruffles and buttons and such

-Closures and lace-up in the back, finishing touches

-a skirt to go with it!

LOOK #3: Shantung Silk Corset with Organza and Flower Detail oddly enough, was inspired by the baroque era… but once I started sketching, it looked sort of 1950s pin-up. Go figure that one!

STILL NEEDS:

-Same as above, look #2

 

Now I should probably be sewing rather than posting a blog about this… but everyone wish me luck! I will update on my progress and let you know when I have more photos! And if you live in the Northern California, then north bay area come to the fashion show on April 25th at the Santa Rosa Plaza Mall! Completed looks will either be sold on Etsy or given away to friends and family. Depends on how well they come out and who I owe money to. 😉

Launch Gallery