My Sketchbook for the new collection
Behind the scenes at our atelier this week.
The final week of October was different than usual with work placement student Olivia spending the week with us at the studio.
Olivia cutting the bodice for her work placement project.
Olivia sewing in the studio for work placement
I always love having work placement students, not only do I work a little harder (no time for pondering instagram!) but it's great to discuss fresh ideas and look at design from different perspectives.
Olivia is in year 13 studying at Weston College and had a stunning sketchbook with great layout design. She set quite a challenge for her project, a bodice with a sheer overlay. Luckily the week before I had been working in organza so I could offer advice on finishings and sewing.
Olivia's final garment, a sheer organza top with ruffle shoulder and denim bodice.
Styling and photographing Olivias work placement project. It was beautiful in Wells.
In my own work I am in the middle of our new bespoke collection that will consist of dresses and separates that can be made to measure in your choice of fabric. I just need to remember that being too sensible in my designs never works.
Washing our satin for sampling and draping. Washing some fabrics softens it for more drape.
Toile for a silk top with cowl neck. Part of the new collection.
The pleats arrived from Ciment pleaters. They are the last pleaters in the country and did a wonderful job on my chosen fabrics of satin, metallics and sequins. I started on the first dress with a hand draped bodice.
Draping the pleated dresses.
We changed the shop window for Halloween with our black tulle Vicki dress, the yellow dot two piece and Anna's black silk childrens dress. Finished with local pumpkins.
Happy Halloween!
