Tuesday, July 19, 2011

Inspiration...



Every time I go shopping at all the big mall stores to see what’s new, I am always sorely dissapointed.  There is a severe lack of creativity in the price points I can afford.  Now I realize, some designs must be dumbed down a little to be able to sold for less but quite honestly that’s no excuse.  You can change a neckline,  add a ruffle where you wouldn’t except it, or even have a really cool color or print.  This is about the point when I start sketching my own designs but realize, “oh wait, I’m in school! I don’t have time to make anything for myself!)  But that doesn’t stop me from being inspired.  :-)  I’m so excited this term because I get to actually make my own collection for a real live fashion show!  I can use whatever fabrics, silhouettes and details I want! 

This week, I want to focus on what’s been inspiring me as of late.  This may be an ongoing theme depending on how well it’s received and what I feel like writing about on any given day.

This last week I got to see the movie Water for Elephants with Reese Witherspoon and Robert Pattinson.  The movie itself was pretty cool.  I didn’t think it would be as intense of a drama but I was still entranced by the magic of the circus and of course the costumes. I am now officially obsessed with the fashion of the 1930’s. Combine that with the magic and drama of the circus… and all the gorgeous animals and I might be in love!  After doing some research I found out about the costume designer for the movie (Jacqueline West) and found some gorgeous sketches of the costumes! They are very reminiscent of one of my favorite 30’s designers who revolutionized the way women dressed, Madeleine Vionnet.  I found some pics of each so enjoy!
http://24.media.tumblr.com/tumblr_len3k1u8tg1qahuhjo1_500.jpghttp://www.thecheapdesignerpurses.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2010/01/1930s-Fashion-Backless-Dress.jpghttp://www.metmuseum.org/toah/images/h2/h2_C.I.52.18.4.jpg

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3103/2512349134_f62777392a.jpg
http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3167/2511519085_dbd5262520.jpg

Friday, July 15, 2011

The Beginning...

Today I am starting a new adventure.  I'm a little scared because I hate to write, but if there's anything I've learned, besides the fact that cliches will never cease to be applicable, it's that you should finish what you start, learn to face your fears and try something new everyday.  So here we go. Hope you enjoy my random ramblings.  You can expect anything from fashion advice, to movie reviews, recipes, sewing tutorials, art, craft projects, etc.


First of all, since this is blog number one, I should explain the title.  "Dancing Bears and Painted Wings" are lyrics from a song from Anastasia (one of my favorite movies by the way).  I love the scene where this song is played.  Anastasia is poking around this old castle that sparks memories of her long forgotten past and has the most gorgeous day dream.  I wish I had a dream like that.  It makes me want to be a little girl again, dress up in princess clothes, with a tiara in my hair, and dance around in my mothers shoes.... At the same time, I want to be Audrey Hepburn in "My Fair Lady" as the sophisticated women.  Then again maybe it's my life goal to be a little bit of both. :-)