Updates on costuming business!

So for the last 2 months or so, I've been creating and selling ghawazee-style coats at various events in Michigan and Ohio.

So far, it's been a success. So much of a success, in fact, that I plan on expanding the line into several other styles of ladies' coats and men's coats and vests.

Here are some of the styles currently available...

Here's what I hope to extend for the ladies....

And Monday's Sketchbook roughly detailed what I'd like to bring forth for the men. Next week's Sketchbook should have some new drafts as well.

I just ordered a whole bunch of Sari fabric, so I will have lots of new patterns to play with. This week I've been making a Queen Elsa for a friend's daughter; I'll have a separate post all about that.

Cheers!

Current projects: ghawazee coats and more

So, based on the reception of my blue ghawazee outfit at the last few events, I've decided to branch out into costume vending. I will be selling wares at the upcoming Springs and Sprockets event in Ypsilanti, MI on April 13th. I've been busy sewing away, creating stock ghawazee coats (and hopefully some high collared Victorian Steampunk coats as well). Here are some of the in-progress shots!

Silvery green with cream embroidery. Size M

Golden/tan with blue embroidery and sleeves. Size XS/child

Purple/green feathery pattern. I can't wait until the purple trim is on...it will really pop. Size XL

Close up of feather pattern. 

I have a bunch more cut out in many more sizes, including a gorgeous blue/gold, a very pretty silvery purple, a pink and maroon stripe, and a red and black taffeta. As they get done-ish, I'll keep posting photos!

Photoshoot at Gears, Beards, and Beers

Last week, I attended Capitol Steam's fantastic event, Gears, Beards, and Beers in Jackson, MI. Matt Gwinn of Errant Knight Photography was there offering free photos, so I took advantage and got some great shots of my new blue/gold outfit with my ShopTroll leather. 

I wish I had removed my camera bag, but this is a great full body shot that shows how the skirt is hitched to the belt and creates some interesting falls. I love how the blues of the coat and the trim really make the lighter sand-colored leather pop!

Playing around with props! This is one of my favorite costume photos of me ever - Matt did a great job. I love how the blue feathers set off my purple hair. Again, great detailing in the leather by ShopTroll. 

I'm BA-ACK!

Sorry about the lack of posts for the last few months. I've been dealing with depression, never ending snow storms, too many medical school exams and papers to count, and just general life.

The good news is that my depression is mostly under control, med school is going well, and I've been helping out a few vendor friends (Shoptroll and War Pony) at some shows, so the inspiration and costuming has been happening more and more.

I just got back from yesterday's Shiver Me Timbers, put on by the Brethren of the Great Lakes. A fun day of shopping and music was had by all.

The most exciting piece for me was my completed, totally brand new costume. I was a bad costumer and forgot to bring my camera, so I don't have any good photos right now, but if they happen to appear, I will post them.

In the meantime (and for your viewing pleasure), here is a little glimpse into the madness of what my costuming process looks like, from sketch to draping to actually putting it all together.

Original sketch

Pinning cutout fabric and various trims/accessories on dress form. 

The final look. Leather pieces (bodice, skirt, hip pockets) are made by Shoptroll

So there you have it! At the very least, I will be bringing back Monday Sketchbook. As things go along, I will have more updates about costumes, events, some tutorials, and all good things about the colorful side of my life.

-SheWolf