This year, one of my best friends, Jocelyn, took an apparel course at her school. It’s evident that she’s garnered a wealth of sartorial knowledge, from sewing to designing patterns. Guess what she gave me for Christmas this year? A handcrafted purse made out of old vinyl records! So in honor of all the amazing skills Joce has learned, here’s a delightful display of her finest pieces, as well as a thought-provoking interview.
Electric Thrift: What have you learned from designing and creating your own clothes?
Jocelyn: I learned that creating your own clothes takes a lot of time! But you get to say you made it, so it’s totally worth it. I’ve also learned a lot about reading patterns, and how to make your own patterns for things (I made my own pattern for the backpack). I learned that I love to sew and wear my fabulous creations!
ET: Describe the process of turning design ideas into real pieces.
J: With my fur coat, I first found the fur and then the idea of the coat came along. So from there you just buy or make your own pattern, sew sew sew, and voilá! A new fur coat! But for other things you find inspiration first, like a velvet coat worn by a celebrity, or an awesome black curtain sitting in your drawer asking you to turn it into a rocking tank top! Or maybe just the colors of the trees or flowers, or any random object that catches your eye. You have to find the perfect fabric for your piece too, then the pattern, and then your hands and a sewing machine do the rest!
ET: What’s your favorite piece that you’ve made?
J: Probably my fur coat because of how wonderfully fantastic it is, but the red velvet coat it a very close second.
ET: How does fashion reflect your individuality?
J: If you saw me in my normal clothes, you definitely wouldn’t assume I love fashion, because my wardrobe is very comfy and laid back most of the time. But I think by seeing the pieces I sew, you can see that my style is more classy, and a little fur crazy!
ET: Would you consider apparel design to be a useful skill?
J: Yes, absolutely!!! It helps you to be more creative in the way you see things and make things. Also, it’s helpful in daily living. For example, my friends backpack strap broke at school once. Instead of her going to spend money on a new one, I sewed it up and it worked like it it was brand new!
A big thanks to Jocelyn for letting me pester her about apparel! How does fashion inspire you in everyday life? Share your thoughts and style with me in the comments below!
~Sky
Electric Thrift 