Even though I work in a very corporate setting, I have always been more of an "artsy" type garment wearer. So I am constantly looking for a way to add a corporate slant to "Art to Wear" garments.I was inspired to purchase the Swing Jackets pattern/book/DVD combo from Nancy's Notions after watching the first part of the series in the streaming videos. The jacket concept along with the ability to add embellishment to it, to make it reversible ~ my mind went gaga over an all silk crepe reversible jacket ~ to use some manipulated fabrics for it, really tickled my imagination...so it is now on it's way to me!
I totally understand that "corporate" and "art to wear" are two terms that don't seem to be related to each other but again if you look in most plus size stores or in the plus size section of most pattern companies..."high fashion" and "plus-size" don't seem to go together either! Since I seem to have a knack for going against the grain, I am on a search for a jacket pattern that I can coalesce into a corporate look with an art to wear sensibility.
There are times we must travel new paths and explore new creative venues...trails that others don't venture upon or can't see their way down...or even have a vision for! Hopefully this series will assist me in trying something new that will come closer to a vision that I've been holding onto for a minute. Now of course, I have no idea when I will get to this pattern...there is just so much stuff rolling around in this brain trying to get out...but when I do get to it and figure out what I want it to become...I will share it here!
Until then the possibility of mixing two styles that shouldn't go together into one awesome outfit that works on all levels for me is a very intriguing thought...and one that I am actively seeking to create in 2009!
I'm excited to see this project! As of now, I am not even a beginning sewer. My first machine will be purchased next month. I hope to one day be able to make my own work clothes that can pass muster in a corporate environment.
ReplyDeleteI just received my simple swing jacket DvD from Nancy Notions.. Thanks again.
ReplyDeleteCarolyn, I've seen that and been tempted... but as of yet haven't made the plunge to get it! I do have a ton of jacket patterns too! I don't have a corp. situation but I still enjoy wearing jackets a lot... plus like you I really like the idea of being able to do what I want artistly to clothes... seems I never end up sewing anything "just like the pattern"! Rarely do I ever get to make something that way... but, I suppose that's a good thing too!
ReplyDeleteEnjoy!
I read More and Oprah mags and pour thru the fashion advice. I want to be sure I tell alterations customers current trends and advice. Both these mags, for women of a certain age like us, suggest that successful well dressed women have a "signature". It can be jewelry, a scarf, a "uniform" that fits their style, shoes, etc. I don't see why your signature can't be art to wear jackets. I am seeing more and more embellished stuff in expensive suits and jackets. No one wants to look cookie cutter. Chicos is making a fortune on embellished jackets and tops. And I have seen plenty of people wear Chicos stuff for business. Go for it- develop your signature art to wear jackets.
ReplyDeleteGo for it! I think it can be done in an elegant way that says "artistic" without screaming it, which would be appropriate for the corporate environment.
ReplyDeleteWell! It seem to me that creating your own clothing, even in a corporate setting, it's still "artsy". You are not going to find another soul who dresses like you. They will never have the polish, the look that you do. Your clothing are artistic and beautiful. But I do believe you are trying to stretch yourself in a confining category. YOU GO GIRL! I can't wait to see what you come up with in the "Artsy Corporate" look!.
ReplyDeleteThanks for the photo of the book/dvd set. Guess what I am giving my self for Christmas from Nancy's Notions if it is still there? Embellished jackets/garments sound exciting. I always need inspiration as I have to start out as a copy cat before I do my thing with an idea. mssewcrazy
ReplyDeletei can't wait to see what you come up with. I like artsy garments - but only on other people! I think if you can create "corporate art-to-wear", it might be artsy while being conservative - something that would appeal to me.
ReplyDeleteI think you have delved into that area in 2008 already. Remember the dress/jacket with the jaquard fabric on the back and for the binding? That is vey art-to-wear (at least for a corporate environment). Enjoy!
ReplyDeleteI think the style you are looking for is one women in the creative industries--advertising, publishing, magazines--carry off very well when they hit a certain age. Simple but elegant and with a certain artistic flair.
ReplyDeleteCarolyn, if anyone can do it, you can. Your ideas and fine craftsmanship will produce nothing short of specatular! I can't wait to see the journey.
ReplyDeleteI have this jacket pattern and DVD. I made a swing jacket using wool fabric from Nancy Z and embroidered designs on lapel and center back. It turned out great. I have not worn the jacket in awhile. I look forward to seeing your creation.
ReplyDeleteYes, even though you are in one environment, you can interject some pizzazz into your clothing. Well by the looks of all your other clothes you have produced this year, you do have a very special clean look with a bit of whimsy so why not walk across the line? All your sewing sisters are rooting for you and we wonder where you find the time! Can't wait to see the finished product...Good luck!
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