This year is going to the one where I actually follow though with making my own wardrobe.
Yeah, right! I hear your doubt internet, but I'm determined to carve out some time for myself this year and have already started out strong. Besides, my current selection of clothes is pretty minimal, so I've got no choice but to make stuff.
I started the year with the obligatory introspection that most of us experience with New Year's Resolutions and the onslaught of "inspirational" social media posts over the Christmas/New year break. In my defence, I had three weeks off and no responsibilities as far as commission or alterations work, so I had plenty of time to dream and deep dive on my fashion style aspirations.
And apparently Goth/alt fashion is hot stuff again. My inner teenager rejoiced that I might be able to indulge in my version of this style, with a mature edge of course. I had no intention of re-living that awkward period.
So, deep diving on this style influence, I came across the concept of Dark Academia, which resonated with me. Edgy, a little dark with a classic style base - this I could work with. It's comforting that my style could be articulated into classification or style type, as I had been more or less dressing with this in mind for a while. And finding a "tribe" of similarly like minded individuals makes one feel less alone.
I started with redecorating my space with the decor/artwork/furnishings I had on hand and they were surprisingly cohesive. All I had needed to put these elements together was a little direction and an element to focus on. I found the blog post/YouTube video from ModaMisfit incredibly helpful.
And what else was I going to focus on but my passion - Historic fashion. Hence the concept of Dark Academia seamstress was born, which pulled my gothic styling together with my fashion focus. Elements that I had to work with include dark stained antique furniture (inherited both both Grandmothers), a fabulous black ironwork bed frame, dark red furnishings, a gold velvet armchair and plenty of artwork in dark gothic frames (from my stint as a picture framer). Throw my handmade furnishings/throws, antique textile tools and a dressmakers manikin into the mix and I had discovered my style. And I must say, once finished I felt extremely calm in my new space.
That done, it was time to focus on my wardrobe. So, I pulled up my trusty Canva wardrobe planner and got to work. This is what I came up with...
