Lael Osness

Parlour Shoot

2010-08-09T10:23:00.006-06:00

This weekend the photoshoot for Parlour's Creme De La Creme took place. I feel honoured that I was able to be involved, featured as 1 of 10 Albertan designer breaking out in the local industry. Such a lovely day, hanging out with fellow designers; making connections and having fun.
The dress I made was inspired by mid-century fashion, very Jackie O! You cannot see here but the train on the back of the gown was 1.5 meters of pleated fabric with netting underneath. The model, Court Baker- based out of Mode Edmonton was fantastic. A slight bump in the road, as the dress was too small, I managed to corset her up with some safety pins and a shoelace- graciously provided my one of the male models. I love having that pressure on when you only have a certain amount of time and it all comes down to practical problem solving!
The energy on set was fantastic, I feel blessed to be getting started in this line of work. This was a great experience before my big move, I am so excited to head to the big apple!!!

Christian Dior Fall 2010 Couture

2010-07-07T10:49:00.016-06:00

Photos courtesy Style.com

I am in love with Galliano's work in his most recent Couture collection. It's like candy for the eye; the volume, the fabrics and the colour!!!

New Grace

2010-06-30T11:21:00.009-06:00

My life has been changing so much within the last week it is unbelievable! It's very peculiar that these changes have centered on the lunar eclipse and planetary shift that occurred this last Saturday. As I've been preparing to move to NYC this August 22nd, I've been faced head on with the reality of my current lifestyle and relationships. This has been an extremely healthy process for me, particularly in rooting out certain things in my life that no longer are allowing me to grow but rather are inhibiting me. In doing so I have had to make difficult and painful decisions, but I believe in the long run these are the best choices I can make for myself. Although it's an emotional experience I have felt much personal gratification and the release of unneeded burden. I have felt a new surge of energy flowing throughout me; body and soul, as well as a new outlook on life with a much more positive and healthy attitude. At the same time, I feel as I am growing forward I am accepting the little bits of myself that need to be left behind. Everyday seems like a new adventure with new purpose and possibilities. My fear of the unknown strengthens me for the unfolding of my future.

This is an amazing editorial from my Astrological month of February- yes I am an Aquarian! I have been feeling very centered as a result of these shifts I am currently undergoing, and my inner bohemian has been emerging. These images inspired me and put me in a great mood this morning, hope you enjoy.

Sasha Pivovarova by Emma Summerton for Vogue Italia February 2010
Photos courtesy PaperMode

Magnificent Obsession

2010-06-23T11:02:00.005-06:00

Photos courtesy Vogue.com
Ewan McGregor & Natalia Vodianova for Vogue July 2010
Photographed by Peter Lindbergh

I love the whole 1950's dialogue in this shoot. My personal aesthetic seems similar at times.

Seeing Red

2010-06-18T11:47:00.005-06:00

Vogue Pelle July 2010
Photo courtesy Vogue.it

Photo courtesy Stockholm Street Style

Photos courtesy Citizen Couture

Lately I've been addicted to my classic shade of red lipstick with matching nails, this confirms it!!!

Givenchy Resort 2011

2010-06-18T09:51:00.008-06:00

Photos courtesy Style.com

Riccardo Tisci did an amazing job on this collection- the black, white, red and leopard print palette is brilliant! Always a fan of sharp masculine tailoring with a feminine touch.

Stella McCartney Resort 2011 & Garden Party

2010-06-14T11:43:00.012-06:00

Shots from the Garden Party showing

A selection of my favourite looks from McCartney's Resort 2011 Collection

Photos courtesy Style.com

Ice Queen

2010-06-12T12:29:00.011-06:00

Photography by David Jonathan
Hair by Phillip Elliott
Styling by Carl Abad

I recently rediscovered this photo from a hair shoot I did with Phillip Elliott back in October, it was an amazing experience!

Snow White

2010-06-11T09:26:00.009-06:00

Photos courtesy PaperMode
Sasha Pivovarova & Guinevere Van Seenus by Paolo Roversi for Vogue Italia April 2010

Although this is from a couple months back it needs to be shared, I love Vogue Italia editorials, I find they often push the boundaries with a unique view.

I'm stoked it's FRIDAY!!! So much goodness this weekend! I am meeting with my good friend to FINALLY get my new site up, fitting and hair done after work for an Aveda modelling shoot on Sunday, then going out to HiFi tonight with my good buddies Robin and Nicholette! Should be fun, have a great weekend!

L

Business Groove

2010-06-10T12:00:00.004-06:00

Photos courtesy PaperMode

Freja Beha & Lara Stone by Terry Richardson for Vogue Paris June/July 2010

Words, Written on the Wind

2010-06-10T09:21:00.004-06:00

Vogue: Russia June 2010
Model: Ranya Mordanova
Photography: KT Auleta
Stylist: Simon Robins

Pretty Snazzy

2010-06-08T11:17:00.020-06:00

I LOVE anything pink and pretty. My stylometer often varries from rock'n'roll to modern to fancy- I enjoy changing like a salomander every day, it's like playing dress-up!
Photos courtesy Stockholm Street Style, The Sartorialist, Stylesightings and Burda

Weekend Update

2010-06-08T09:24:00.020-06:00

A little behind here, but I needed to share some hipstamatic shots from this weekend!(Most still to come as I lost my charger for my camera and need to by a new one today) Tommy boy and I started things out right on Friday and saw Splice, the new film by Canadian director Vincenzo Natali starring Adrien Brody and Sarah Polley. I LOVED this film- it was a great genetic sci-fi and it's nice to see a Canadian film that isn't about some shitty national cliche.

After that we headed over to my gf Nic's house for some pre-party champagne- to celebrate being done our Wild Rose Cleanse. It was so hard not to have any sugar, bread or liquor for 12 days- I'll admit I snuck a glass of wine or two! The party was awesome- I caught some very wonderful "derelict" shots from the party house basement(which I cannot post until tonight) I'm so excited for my new camera!!!

Saturday morning we all went for breakfast at The Ship and did a little vintage shopping in the afternoon.

Me

Steak and Eggs- Breakfast of Champions!

I have to say my fave vintage places in Calgary right now are:

1. USED 921 17 Ave SW
2. Divine 720 17 Avenue SW
3. Value Village 3405 34 Street NE
4. Cat's Eye 614 10 Ave SW
5. Junk Star 718 17 Avenue SW

Lately I've been picking up soom amazing stuff- notably a black leather patchwork batwing pullover that is croched togethor with this wonderfully silky thread.

This baby will take me places!

Downward view

Me at Local 510- great joint

Allison & Nicholette

Beauties

We stopped by Local 510 for some sunny day brewskies and re-conviened for a fabulous dinner at The Living Room. Our dinner was definitely the highlight of my weekend. Again- in celebration of having finished an herbal cleanse we thought why not go all out. I had an amazing lambrack for dinner and shared a Bernard Calibou Fondou with the ladies for dessert!

Tommy holding his own with us ladies

Allison

Nic

Silhouette

LAMBRACK....droooooooool.

Hangin after dinner

Too full to even move!

Overall a wonderful weekend! I am posting my amazing party pics tonight! I can't believe I went this long in my life without a great camera. I'm having so much fun with it.

LOOKS OF THE DAY

2010-06-07T09:39:00.028-06:00

Some Monday goodness!!!
Photos courtesy vogue.it

MY STUDIO

2010-06-04T14:22:00.013-06:00

YAY FOR FRIDAY! Here are some pics of my workroom as well as the materials I am using for my sister's bridesmaid gowns. I am starting cutting on one of the dresses this weekend- I love the hands on process when the design comes off of the paper. Have a fabulous weekend!

Candyland

2010-06-02T14:12:00.005-06:00

These are some shots from a photoshoot I did back in October 09'. This was the first "line" of clothing I've ever designed and constructed all on my own. I am really happy that I made the decision to just jump into sewing and teach myself as I went along. I have really learnt alot- mostly about time management amd it has been a very rewarding process, both creatively and personally. I am super excited to start putting together my next shoot for later this month. It will be a cool concept thanks to the likes of Thomas R. Lee, a SAIT film school graduate/writer/my fabulous boyfriend. (You will hear more about this!!!) Whenever I start to get nervous about moving to NYC and being thrown into the fashion design snake pit, I just think about what I've already done on my own. I believe honesty and hard work always previal! I'M SO EXCITED TO GO!!!!! Enjoy the pics!

1960's VOGUE COVERS

2010-06-02T10:15:00.009-06:00

I stumbled across some vintage vogue covers that I NEED to share! I am an absolute lover of anything twentieth mid-century era, especially the 60's. I love how fashion was evolving so much, and parallel to these changes were the extreme shifts in society. I would give anything to go back and have graduated High School in 1967, just as my Mum did. (She grew up in the Mid-West US, and went to High School and College during the peace love movement)I hope you enjoy!!!

UK Vogue October 1969- Pattie Boyd

UK Vogue September 1969- Jean Shrimpton

Paris Vogue May 1969- Jane Birkin

US Vogue November 1968- Veruschka

UK Vogue February 1968

UK Vogue May 1968

UK Vogue December 1967- Candice Bergen

US Vogue November 1967- Susan Murray

US Vogue August 1967- Mia Farrow

Paris Vogue May 1967- Twiggy

US Vogue November 1966- Veruschka

UK Vogue October 1966

US Vogue July 1966- Barbara Bach

US Vogue March 1966

UK Vogue September 1965

UK Vogue July 1965- Sophia Loren

US Vogue March 1965- Wilhemina

US Vogue November 1964- Audrey Hepburn

US Vogue September 1964- Veronica Hammel

UK Vogue July 1964

US Vogue February 1964- Wilhemina

US Vogue September 1963- Brigette Bauer

UK Vogue August 1963- Jean Shrimpton

US Vogue April 1963

UK Vogue November 1962

US Vogue May 1962- Isabella Albonico

US Vogue January 1962

Paris Vogue December 1961

US Vogue September 1961- Dorothea McGowa

US Vogue July 1961

UK Vogue February 1961

UK Vogue December 1960

US Vogue October 1960

UK Vogue March 1960
Photos courtesy voguearchives.onsugar.com

The Ghost Who Walks

2010-06-01T11:21:00.008-06:00

If you haven't purchased(NOT downloaded)the new Karen Elson Album, The Ghost Who Walks, you should...right now! It is absolutely amazing. For those who don't know Karen Elson is a British Model Singer/Songwriter who is marred to Jack White III. I am a huge fan of Elson because of her runway modelling and editorial work, and was super impressed to find out that she wrote all of her own music. It has this great old haunting southern folk vibe to it, here are some images of her album art and modelling.

Photos courtesy fashionista.com, thelovemagazineblog.wordpress.com, papermag.com, fashionknowitall.wordpress.com, flickr.com, voguearchives.onsugar.com, zimbio.com, frillr.com, brooklynvegan.com

My Weekend

2010-06-01T09:50:00.006-06:00

It seems as if the weeks fly by quicker and quicker, and the same can be said for my precious weekends! The Lilac Festival was the main local event that I went to Sunday, it is always so much fun...depending on the weather that is. Calgary has been getting the WORST weather- all rain, no sun! My friend Nic and I went to the Coup for Brunch, a wonderful little vegetarian restaurant tucked away on 17th Ave. It was absolutely delightful. Since I am on a cleanse right now this was the perfect place to eat!!! I had organic granola with fruit compote, organic bananas and almond milk topped off with a soy chai latte! It was so great- I would recommend it to anyone who lives (or is visting) Calgary.

The food is all organic, vegan friendly and very reasonable!!!

My GF Nic...she's a beauty.

Some vintage quails my gf picked up at the festival.

We stopped by Local 510 for a snack after the festival and then picked up grocerries for a special Sunday evening meal. My babe joined us for dinner- ginger lemon chicken, asparagus, buckchoy, mashed squash and brown rice. Our little family dinner!

My man

At Nic's place.

REST IN PEACE EASY RIDER 1936-2010

2010-05-31T09:44:00.011-06:00

We will all miss this legendary Hollywood Icon. I will remember Dennis Hopper best for his direction and roles in Easy Rider, Apocalypse Now, and Blue Velvet. He was such an inspiring artist in Hollywood, I feel mostly because he was himself no matter what. He was human and wasn't afraid to do what he wanted- a true rebel baddass. Although Hopper once said that his base of work could have been larger if he had done things differently Viggo Mortenson said it best, what sets Hopper apart is "his ability to instill … fearlessness … as an artist and friend." Too bad more people in the film industry weren't more like him- instead of all this sellout bullshit we get these days. PAPST BLUE RIBBON FOREVER!!!

Photos courtesy efitnessnow.com, artquotes.net, lipsticktracez.com, hollywood-blog.net, hkll.zc.bz, horrormovies.ca, sfist.com, guardian.co.uk

Social Commentary

2010-05-28T10:17:00.006-06:00

Lately I've had this fascination with vintage ads- mostly because it says so much about societal views at the time of their being printed. It's an interesting commentary on the "old school" way of thinking. Also, how much propoganda (in terms of marketing an idea or product) affected the US especially during the mid-twentieth century. I am taken back at how blatently sexist some of these are- I respect the women who continuously fought for our rights during this period of time.

Photos courtesy pzservices.typepad.com, popularwealth.com, purpleslinky.com, sho.wca.se, boingboing.net, frozentoy.blogspot.com, slyoyster.com, markarayner.com, historyteacher.net

Nature for Inspiration

2010-05-27T15:54:00.006-06:00

Here are some amazing shots by Guido Mocafico. I found these on the the blog "Insomnia" and couldn't resist sharing them with more people. The first thing that popped into my head was MCQUEEN! This was at the heart of his S/S 2010 line which was groundbreaking in my opinion. I love how organic their bodies are piled up in each photo. The color is amazing- I find the images almost hypnotic when staring. ENJOY!

Here is a shot from McQueen's S/S 2010 Ad Campaign

Fall RTW 2010 Personal Faves

2010-05-27T12:26:00.006-06:00

Alexander Wang

Alexander Wang

Alexander Wang

3.1 Phillip Lim

3.1 Phillip Lim

3.1 Phillip Lim
Whether it be a dark gothic pallete, blue jean baby or 1970's hip, this Fall's runway is offering great bold looks! It's wonderful how apparent trends sometimes do not matter, with the current array of looks on the runway there is something to satisfy anyone's individual taste. I find that if one is true to themselves in terms of dressing individual- almost anything can work with that dash of personal flare. For instance, mixing a new look with a vintage item or perhaps a family heirloom can add an irreplicable element to an outfit. The hunt for these items in my opinion, propose the most fun shopping adventures!(and most every girl loves a good hunt)NOTE: Due to my lack of energy I only posted examples from 3.1 PL & AW- will update soon!

Dead Weather Concert Pics

2010-05-27T12:04:00.006-06:00

Here are some new pics courtesy Spin.com from a surprise show The Dead Weather played in Chicago this last Saturday. I saw these guys at The Commodore Ballroom in Vancouver last August and it was one of the best concert experiences I've ever had. The Dead Weather has two albums now; Horehound and their most recent Sea of Cowards.

My New Home

2010-05-21T14:27:00.002-06:00

I will be moving August 21st to the Big Apple- my new home!!! I'm super stoked on having the opportunity to study at such a prestigious school, this will be the start to something very exciting.

Inspiration for Bridesmaid Gowns

2010-05-21T10:20:00.007-06:00

I am thrilled to have been asked to design and construct 3 bridesmaid gowns for my sister's October wedding. I'm using the term Bridesmaid "Gown" because the wedding is at the Banff Springs Hotel and Kayleigh's dress is opulant to say the least. I have finished designing the gowns, all distinct but coherent with the tone of this event, which is elegant, classic and vintage. It has been fun going through drafts and coming up with my final sketches! The materials I'm using are embroidered lace, soft shimmer satin, pearl buttons and tulle (as well as pearl & crystal hand embroidery)for all 3 gowns. The colour is absolutely fabulous, it is this dove grey with a warm light blue undertone and I am up for the challenge of hand dying the lace to match this exact colour.
When I started researching for this project I couldn't get the classic look out of my head, which prompted me to revert back to the very famous Grace Kelly gown she wore when she married the Prince of Monaco. What I really love about going back in time is that garments were designed in a more demure and lady like manner, unlike now. Don't get me wrong, there are designers who still acheive this, it can be much more appealing and effective when you cover it up a bit. I am excited to start construction on these wonderful gowns, as soon as I get the lace died!!! I will keep this progress updated.

POLYVORE!!!

2010-05-20T14:25:00.006-06:00

Rock Me Baby by MissLael featuring Cheap Monday jeans

Put Your Fancy Pants On... by MissLael featuring Valentino bags

Rainbow Bright by MissLael featuring Balenciaga bags

Country Hip by MissLael featuring Jimmy Choo bags

California Cool by MissLael featuring Jeffrey Campbell shoes

Tacori Ring by MissLael featuring Diane Von Furstenberg pants

Ready for Spring by MissLael featuring Charlotte Olympia shoes

Sharon Tate by MissLael featuring Freya swimwear

Modern Elegance by MissLael featuring Chanel bags

A very good friend of mine turned me on to Polyvore not too long ago and boy will I tell you, IT'S SO ADDICTIVE!!! I think it's great that there is an online community for everyone and everything- including people (like me) who want to test their fashion editorial skills. Give it a try if you haven't already!

Edie Sedgwich, 60's Icon

2010-05-20T11:59:00.008-06:00

I find Edie such an interesting character from the history books of time. From what I've read(not watched- because the film was garbage)she was so passionate and full of life. It's funny how fragile we as humans really can be when it comes to pushing our personal limits. It's a shame that her life became such a tragedy. Rest in peace Edie.

Sharon Tate, 60's Icon

2010-05-20T10:08:00.005-06:00

Out of all the 1960's icons Sharon Tate is my very favorite. She was amazingly beautiful and according to her sister had a curious and happy approach to everything. RIP SHARON TATE POLANKSI

FALL/WINTER 2010 LINE

2010-05-19T16:29:00.001-06:00

My F/W 2010 Ready Wear line that was unveiled at Alberta Fashion Week this last March. This was my second experience in a local fashion show...very challenging and fun!

SPRING/SUMMER 2010 LINE

2009-10-13T10:33:00.002-06:00

The following images are in reverse order (This peice closed the show)

Close up of Cherisse

Black 50's High Waisted Rouched Bathing Suit with Purple Sheer Crepe Peplum Bathing Suit Cover and Chartruese Georgette Sash

Cobalt Crepe Sheath Top with Shoulder Embellishment and Printed Voile Peplum Pencil Skirt

Cobalt Georgette Waterfall Shoulder Top and Grey Pencil Skirt with Cobalt Embellishemnt

Grey Silk Shift Dress with Chartruese Georgette Wrapping

Orange Crepe Vertically Pleated Cocktail Dress

Printed Voile Top with Shoulder Embellishment and Orange Pleated Skirt with Silk Waitband

Black Stretch Micro Dress with Pleated Embellishent

Cobalt Crepe Pleated Cocktail Dress

Grey Peplum Sheath Set with Silk Dove Grey Sash

Chartruese Upholstery Assyemtrical Coctail Dress

Orange Crepe Assyemtrical Top with Splatter Pique Micro Mini

Purple Georgette Waterfall Shoulder High Cut Top with Black Silk Jazz Pants

Splatter Pique Sheath Dress with Chartruese Georgette Emabllishment

Purple Peplum Sheath Set with Chartruese Georgette Rear Detailing and Orange Silk Sash

Finally after months of hard work I unveiled my debut line at Alberta Fashion Week. This was the first annual event for AFW and it is here to stay!!! Alberta Fashion will put on events throughout the year showcasing local and non-local Canadian designers. The two major events will occur October and March of every year. This is really exciting for Calgarians, Albertans and Canadian designers- finally the local fashion community is coming togethor and putting down some roots! I hope you enjoy my new line.

Look Of The Day

2009-09-01T14:39:00.000-06:00

Often when we think fashion, we think designer labels and big bucks. I'm here to tell you (as an avid thrift store shopper) that this is nonsense! Although style and fashion are two very things, you can have it all with confidence and creativity. The young woman here is wearing a recycled eighties look- aimed to the hipster but still looking good in non-label garb. My best hint is to check out Divine Fashion on 17th Avenue SW in Calgary, AB- some of the best vintage in this city for the cheapest price!

Alberta Fashion Week Schedule Released

2009-09-01T14:26:00.000-06:00

The event is getting closer! Alberta's first annual Fashion Week is coming up Oct 4 to Oct 10, and here is the Designer Schedule;

Designer Schedule
(All times are PM)

Tuesday, October 6
Opening Show 7:00-8:00
Camille Prins
Adejoke Taiwo

Wednesday, October 7
Designer Mashup Show 7:00-8:30
Maria Orduz
Jana Klaus Beatrix
Madame Wolf
Heather Leslie
Emery Eden
Olga Courtnage

Thursday, October 8
Fashion Show 7:00-7:30/8:00-8:30
Lael Osness
Jennifer Shepherd
Brenda Low
Caitlin Power

Friday, October 9
Designer Trunk Sales 11:30
Olga Courtnage
Hadija Gabunga
Sarah Moore
Alex Hunt
Cynthia Hou

Designer Runway Show 5:00-5:40/7:00-7:40/8:20
Nonie Rahal
Holly Irwin
Hannah Grant
Kyle Nylund
Laura George

Saturday, October 10
Afternoon Designer Runway Show 3:00/4:00/5:00
Tiffany Wollman
Erin Williams
Sara Chalupnicek

Evening Designer Runway Show 6:00/7:00/8:00/9:00
Shelley Court
Sarah Shell
Jessica Halabi
Special Guest

TICKETS GO ON SALE SEPT 7- Be sure to get yours!

FALL TREND REPORT

2009-08-27T16:35:00.000-06:00

Trend: RUSSIAN INSPIRED FASHION
Assorted Designers, Fall 09

Trend: 80's PARTY FASHION
Marc Jacobs, Fall 09

Trend: GOTHIC CENTURY FASHION
D&G, Fall 09

Trend: METALLICA
Balmain, Fall 09

Trend: 80's INSPIRED
Balenciaga by Nicolas Ghesquiere, Fall 09

Trend: 80's BUBBLEGUM PUNK
Alexander Wang, Fall 09

Some looks off the runway that forecast what to expect for another fabulous fall! This season lives and breathes the 80's (still!); Futuristic fashion, rock'n' roll, bubblegum punk, neons brights, gothic romantic style, sculpted shoulders and arcitectual design.
Photos courtesy elle.com

Updated pics from AB Fashion Week Shoot

2009-08-27T12:22:00.000-06:00

Photos taken by Caitlind Brown

Shot at Lael Osness' personal residency

My Dress Form

2009-05-27T10:56:00.000-06:00

I just ordered a new adjustable dress form and I am thrilled! This baby will be my new best friend when it comes to fitting garments to specefic measurements. I think I will name her NANCY!!!

Cotton Candy Origami Dress

2009-05-27T10:05:00.000-06:00

Recently I picked up a whole bunch of great remnants at the fabric store and decided to do a quick little project for myself. Because I was using a sheer material I made a tube dress out of some hot pink spandex that luckily matched the pink shade of sheer fabric. I decided to do something simple but fun, and the bright color makes this off the shoulder dress pop! It's a mash up of something you might see for spring/summer 2009 on the runway- in terms of style it's got that 80's look going on, and I love the delicate little tipped shoulders that add a oriental origami style to it. It reminds me of something you might see from 3.1 Philip Lim, Alexander Wang or maybe Marc Jacobs. I fit this to myself without a pattern.

Alberta Fashion Week

2009-05-26T14:33:00.000-06:00

Alberta Fashion Week is a time reserved for the celebration of fashion here in Alberta. This year I was invited to submit a mini Spring/ Summer 2010 line in the week taking place October 4th to the 10th. I am thrilled to be a part of this event which hopefully will expose me to more of the local fashion industry and designers! Right now I am developing the concept behing this mini-line by doing alot of research and out of the box thinking. I will post these garmets when I complete them. Ciao for now!

Lael

The First Style Icon- Jeanne Paquin

2009-05-19T11:09:00.000-06:00

I've been researching twentieth century fashion for ideas and inspiration, and my interest was struck while reading about some of the first fashion icons. Because these were days when women had to fight for their rights and eventually liberate themselves, it makes perfect sense that they also had to fight to clothe themselves as equals rather than erotic ornaments. Around the turn of the century the female wardrobe embodied that of an "S" shape. Women were fully armed in their grotesque and unnatural body form; breasts pushed outward and the rear exaggerated as a counterweight. The female shape was treated as an object, deformed and suppressed from it's natural state. This was the industry standard for female fashion, visibly unequal to that of a man's garment.

Rational dressing was becoming more popular and expirimental by artists and free thinkers of this early century. During this movement of modern thinking Jeanne Paquin established a name and iconic reputation for herself as the first couturiere to become a fashion icon. Jeanne and Isidoe Paquin opened the House of Paquin in 1891, it soon became known for it's youthful, modern and sophisitcated fashions. Eight years into her career Jeanne was chosen by other leading couturiers to head the first collective exhibition of couture at the Paris Universal Exibition in 1900. For her display she chose a wax manequin of herself dressed in a lux blue velvet teagown emriodered with gold roses and trimmed in Alecon lace. Paquin was known for wearing her own designs and making an impression on those around her, she has been coined as "The Mother of Modern Dress" due to her free and comfertable garments. She was the personification of her own style, and her popularity prepared the way for the rise of the next great fashion personality- Coco Chanel.

My Sewing Machine

2009-05-13T11:24:00.000-06:00

May I introduce you to my sewing machine, a 4277 Singer Advance. This baby was a Christmas gift from my parents this year, and probably the most useful gift I have ever recieved. My studio setup is limited, but there is plenty room for all of my supplies.

Ever since I have gotten back into sewing I have found fasination in vintage sewing books. I love antiques as it is, and anything that involves antiques and sewing is right up my alley! The first book I aquired is a Singer book from the 50's, it was a freebie from the owner of an antique store located in Kelowna, BC. Louis keeps little trinkets aside for me whenever I am in Kelowna, a true reminder that networking can be the most valuble tool!

I also have huge containers full of my crafting supplies, but for now I keep my lux fabrics out in the open so they are handy for me to reach. I am currently on the lookout for a serger and dress form to add to my sewing collection, so browsing ebay has become a daily event. I will post updates on my progress!

Another Rainy Day

2009-05-12T12:43:00.000-06:00

An abundance of indoor time has been brought to my attention with all of this atrocious Calgary weather. With that said, I have no excuse but to sew all night long nestled in my little apartment! Currently I am working on finishing a jumpsuit I started for my sister-in-law's birthday, and it will be a great creation to have finished. It seems every season the eighties floodgates open a little wider and wider- and now with rompers and jumpsuits dominating the runway it is undeniable that the eighties are here to stay. (well who really knows!) It is so exciting for me, a person who would have loved to live throughout the 1980's, to see such a trendy garment become a staple in one's summer wardrobe. When I set out designing a take on the modern jumpsuit I felt it important to punctuate on my personal style and a mash up of assorted inspirations. The jumpsuit that I designed for Cherisse was quite expirimental but with new projects ahead this garment has many possible routes to follow. I am developing a summer line that will include jumpsuits, rompers, billowy tops and trouser shorts. I'm selecting lightweight fabrics with movement allowing a feminine silhouette, as well as assorted sheers. Since I'm at the drawing board process I will keep updates on unfolding ideas and creations!
For now so long,
L

The Kayleigh

2009-05-06T10:30:00.000-06:00

This dress was a birthday gift for my sister Kayleigh, hence the name. It's my first custom garment for someone other than myself and it was designed with some specific parameters which had been requested by my sister for a personal fit. I incorporated colorblocking as well as a tulip-shaped bottom due to their modern look and relevance on the runway. This piece is faced and all inside edges have been finished.My first personally drafted piece!

Green Pencil Skirt with Raw Silk Bow

2009-05-06T10:17:00.000-06:00

This was my first sewing project in some time and what better to sew than a pencil skirt! I choose a forest green stretchy dress material as well as some royal blue raw silk for the waist band. This is one of the very few garmets I decided to use a pattern on. I modified it slightly by slimming the whole pattern down, especially towards the bottom hem for a more bell shaped skirt. I also added an assymetrical tri-bow ornament on the back of the skirt, just above the zipper. I was slightly inspired by the Marc Jacobs fall/winter 2008 line. (I think mostly it was the idea of a skirt in these colours)

Vintage Ornamental Madonna Headband

2009-05-06T10:08:00.000-06:00

This piece is one of my first headbands of many to make! I am starting to create recycled vintage accessories and this is one of my favorites. I covered the headband in a ceme satin material and added antique lace, fabric and jewels to make it dazzling. I was inspired by Catholic communion headpeices, mafioso like, that would be ceremonial.

Grey Jersey Racer Back Tank

2009-05-06T10:00:00.000-06:00

This is a loose and billowy fitting jersey tank, great for layering in any way and light for hot summer weather. I choose to design it with a v neck back that splits into a seam down the tank. All edges are rolled raw for a laid back look. I drafted a pattern for this creation.

Black Crepe Bag Dress

2009-05-06T09:29:00.000-06:00

I had decided to design this modern geometric take on a classic bag dress whilst I was in possession of a gorgeous crepe fabric. I was to be attending a funeral and was planning on sewing something myself. It wasn't until I recently saw a bag dress by BCBGMaxAzria that I was planning to use the crepe fabric this way. This garment is fully lined with all inside edges finished, as well as some beautiful lace detailing on the sleeves for an added feminine touch.

Vanilla Truffle Assymetrical Dress

2009-05-05T15:09:00.000-06:00

The idea for this lovely frock came about when I was looking through all of my extra fabric and discovered some crème satin I had aquired in grade school. It is very shiny and silky feeling and there was no question that I must turn it into a sweet summer dress. I decided to design a simple balloon dress and jazz it up with an assymetrical cut and gushing rossettes! I added some toffee colored fabric in the bobel detailing for a splash of contrast. I wore this dress for an Easter brunch at the Banff Springs Hotel and it was a great event for another creation!

Welcome

2009-05-05T14:47:00.000-06:00

As you can see this is my first post on my blog! I want to welcome anyone surfing through or stopping by for a read. I will post all of my creations, designs and inspirations in the future!