Original works: how to beat the cheap fashion addiction
Autumn Fashion
Written by cjhammon in Books | Music | Art | Culture, Features, Style
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Every time I read about the terrible conditions in garment factories in other parts of the world, it makes me sick, sick, sick. Sick that my quest for bargains has come to this, sick that we’ve exported our entire garment industry overseas and sick that more of us haven’t figured out a way to turn the system on its ear.
My friend Jennifer has. She bought this gorgeous crocheted cape at a local art fair. It’s a real head-turner. I couldn’t do it justice in these photos. Wonderful little details like the collar, which doubles as a hood. The beauty of it is that it’s one of a kind and it will never go out of style. Phillis Cassidy, the artist who made it, says she prays and then crochets, never knowing where her designs might lead. (You can find more of Phillis’ work on the Etsy store, Ma and Pa Peddle.
Jennifer was so excited about her new cape that she stopped by my house just to share it with me. I goaded her onto my catwalk for this photo. (Isn’t it ironic? I really do have a catwalk. It’s a little walk that runs between two bedrooms on the second floor of my home. After much experimentation, it’s where I take all my fashion photos.)
Jennifer isn’t just a fair weather friend; she’s like the sister I never had, sharing and supporting my interests and making time for our friendship through good times and bad. Never mind the fact that she has also talked me off a ledge a time or two–no fees added!
So, here’s a thought for you: you’re shopping for gifts this season, right? Why not shop for original custom-made designs? I’ll bet you know a seamstress, knitter or crochet fanatic who would love to earn some extra cash. Remember to pay them well! You might be too late for commissioning something this year, but you can always buy custom on Etsy.
Who is your favorite custom designer? If you know any great Etsy shops, share them here. I’m entering all comments this week in a drawing for a memoir by Vogue’s creative director, Grace Coddington, so don’t be shy! I’ll add your name to the drawing every time you make a comment this week.
Life is short. Wear the good stuff.
12 comments
November 28, 2012 at 2:53 pm
Great suggestions
November 28, 2012 at 3:00 pm
I love making custom things! I made my dad and brother early Christmas presents this year by designing a custom, monogrammed fabric and making it into bow ties and cummerbunds for an event we attended. I didn’t have time to make too many new dresses, but the positive responses about the bow ties made up for it!
November 29, 2012 at 4:23 pm
What a wonderful gift idea, Cassie! I still want to see that dress you made recently. Don’t you forget to share it!
November 29, 2012 at 4:34 pm
It’s on Facebook! It’s the plaid one, but you might have to go through a few pictures to get to it. We had quite a few parties last week. 🙂
November 29, 2012 at 4:34 pm
Oh, thank you! I’ll find it. May I show it off here?
November 29, 2012 at 4:36 pm
Please feel free! I’m still waiting for better photos from the professional photographer though.
November 29, 2012 at 4:40 pm
I sent you a facebook request so I can see!
November 28, 2012 at 10:42 pm
Hi Crystal,
You’re so awesome. Thanks for sharing my pic. I would suggest checking out RMJewerlyDesigner on etsy. I loved her pieces at Penrod this year, and I am thinking of treating myself to a necklace and earrings. No need to enter me in the drawing. Your friendship is the best gift!
November 29, 2012 at 4:24 pm
Right back at ya, girl. Thanks for the etsy idea!
November 28, 2012 at 10:45 pm
OK, instead of etsy, look for RMdesigns on Artfire.com and you can see some of her beautiful pieces.
November 29, 2012 at 4:25 pm
Thanks for sharing this one, too!
November 29, 2012 at 4:25 pm
Thanks for sharing this one, too!