Style Rookie: Jocelyn Dubose

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

Thrift Haul – Goodwill + Target

Preparing for the schoolyear would not be complete without a little back-to-school shopping. Now I know what you’re thinking, “Sky, school started like two months ago.” That’s very true, school did start like two months ago. But given my recent move across the planet country, it feels like I’m starting a whole new schoolyear. Hence my incredibly belated back-to-school shopping!

I unconsciously bought a lot of 60s- and 70s-esque pieces. This is not a problem, of course, as retro style is en vogue this season. Hope these looks give you some fall inspiration!

Turtleneck – Banana Republic; Faux Fur Coat – Target; Denim Skirt – Thrifted; Boots – Thrifted

Turtleneck – Studio Works; Dress – vintage Jones New York; Shoes – Target

Dress – New York & Company; Low-Block Loafers – Thrifted

~Sky

Fall Trends for 2015

As New York Fashion Week continues to lay out the trends for the 2016 Spring/Summer season, it’s time to flashback to the fall runway looks for this year. Grab a cozy blanket and a pumpkin spice latté, because your guide to cold-weather style is right here!

• Punk

Coach – via Harper’s Bazaar

3.1 Phillip Lim – via Harper’s Bazaar

Marc by Marc Jacobs – via Vogue

A much-needed revival of rebellious attire dominated the fall runways this year. Coach brought their best leather game, while 3.1 Phillip Lim channeled their inner 90s teenager with pocketed plaid. And we can always count on Marc by Marc Jacobs to deliver a generous helping of youthful punk. It seems like a wise idea to whip out those leather jackets and combat boots, because the bad girl look is definitely good.

• Faux Fur

Michael Kors – via Vogue

Altuzarra – via Harper’s Bazaar

Oscar de la Renta – via Harper’s Bazaar

Fur made a classy comeback this year (and do I spy tweed?). Michael Kors and Altuzarra ensured we would all be warm this winter with their downy necklines and knee-length coats. Giving the timeless look a twist, Oscar de la Renta clad his models in fur-lined skirts.

• 70s

Cushnie et Ochs – via Harper’s Bazaar

Diane von Furstenburg – via Vogue

Rodarte – Vogue

Ah, the 70s! Is there really anything more delightful than green, all-velvet menswear? I think not, and Cushnie et Ochs agrees with me. Velvet was not the only semi-tacky 70s trend to resurface this season. Diane von Furstenburg’s line flaunted vivacious patterns. And look at the sequins on that Rodarte dress! The diva look is your way to sparkle this fall (literally, if you’re going with the sequins).

Overall, there are a multitude of bold new trends to try out this autumn. Whether it’s sporting that classic faux fur, or owning the town with a grungy flannel, there’s no way you’ll look boring for the schoolyear.

-Sky