Fickle Sense

Creative Friday: Creating your own prints

2012-02-24T23:42:00.001+01:00

I have been screen printing for a few years now. I used to use stencils to print, but I now mostly use the emulsion method. I still use stencils from time to time so here is a tutorial where I share some of my printing tips.

Fickle Sense personalised screen printed totes

MAKING UNIQUE TEXTILES THROUGH STENCILLING

materials + stencilling tips

X water proof paper If you want to use your stencil again, find some water proof paper. Go to your local art shop or design materials store and ask for water proof transperant paper. Drafting film and other transperant papers look similar to the water proof versions, so make sure that it is water proof. I have made that mistake before. It just means that the stencil will curl out of shape.

X scalpel there are numerous types of scalpels that you can use. If you intend on making a few stencils then perhaps invest in one that has interchangable blades. Check out the link to see what type of scalpels you can purchase. I have a good scalpel with a packet of interchangable blades on hand. A cutting mat is also a useful tool to have. If you don't have one, don't stress. I used to cut on top of a stack of junk mail:)

X textile paints I have used numerous textile paints. Without a doubt my favourite is Permaset. It is an Australian brand. I used to use it in Aus as it was the most common one.... but after coming to Europe and finding some other brands, I now realise how good permaset is. It is a screen printing paint so it is more thick compared to general textile paints. It is water soluable and environmentally friendly. I use it for the fickle sense products. But you can just go to your local art store and get the textile paint that they have. Here is a list of paints that I have previously used with some success. Just make sure that the paints are not too runny. Here are a few textile paint brands that I have tried. Permaset; Speedball( both for screen printing & painting); Javana Textil; Schjerning.

Printing on dark fabrics
If you are using a dark fabric and you want a lighter print... make sure that you get a paint which can print on dark fabrics. Most manufactuers will state whether a paint can be printed on dark fabric. Permaset have named their dark fabric paint Super cover. In general, these paints will be more expensive compared to the regular paints. Keep in mind that there are some exciting textile paints out there. I love using metallics and they even have glow in the dark paints!

Stencilling mistakes
One thing which I find frustrating about stencilling is that it is quite easy to make mistakes. Pressing down the stencil whilst dabbing/rolling the paint on the textile can assist in minimising paint bleed. I also try not to reuse the stencil too many times without washing it. If I think that there is a possibility that the paint has made it's way to the underside of the stencil, I go and wash the stencil straight away. You don't want to ruin all of you hard work.

DIY: Blue square striped top

You need: A paint brush or a small sponge or small roller; scalpel; ruler; water proof paper (or for one time use, you can use normal paper... just becareful as it soaks up the paint); an iron; textile paint; the textile; keep a sponge and some water close by.
1. CREATING THE STENCIL
Trace the stripes from your fabric onto your transperant paper with a pencil. Decide where you want to place the little squares and draw them in.

2. Use your scalpel to cut out your squares. Use a ruler (plastic or metal only) if you want to make sure that it is perfectly straight.

3. VERY IMPORTANT. Make sure that you iron the fabric flat. No creases allowed! Next with a dabbing action paint over the desired areas. Make sure that you hold the stencil in place with you fingers to minimise the possibility of the stencil moving whilst dabbing.

4. Continue to apply colour to the desired squares. And presto! Your own unique textile.

If you want to add more colour, wash out your stencil. Wait for it to dry and apply the alternative colour.... and of course make sure that the blue paint has dried!

turquoise and coral

2012-02-23T07:10:00.000+01:00

SOURCE

Top: SECOND FEMALE pocket tank

Vest: Narciso rodriguez

Shorts: Old Navy denim shorts

Heels: 3.1 Phillip Lim high heels

Clutch: Diane von Fürstenberg raffia clutch

Lipstick: L'Oreal Colour Riche Lipstick, Volcanic

Cuff: Maniamania Immortal Cuff Bronze

In keeping with my more "grown up" outfits, here is a concept featuring am item that I've been really into lately... the tuxedo vest! In keeping with my "new clothes resolution", I'm keen to "DIY" one. I'll just add it to my ever growing "DIY to-do" list..... aarrgh if only I could stay home and "DIY" all day........

And just in case you were sick of these shoes.... here they are again hahaha. Again, kind of sorry but kind of not. I just LOVE the oh-so-barely-there style of sandal (I think its a nice break from the ol' platform which, while it will always be close to my heart, has had it's fair go) and I really think that this is the best one out there at the moment. If you find some other "barely there" shoes that you love, share them with me!

Kaye xx

Creating your own textiles... primary colour style!

2012-02-21T18:10:00.000+01:00

It's no secret that I am a major fan of colour! So I decided to add a little bit of colour to this verticle striped top. It really is easy to create your own unique textiles. All you need is a scalpel, some transperant paper, textile paint, a paint brush (or a roller or silk screen) and you are ready to go!

Within the coming weeks I will be posting some DIY textile printing tutorials. It's all pretty simple yet so very effective. Watch this space for the upcoming tutorials!

fishnets

2012-02-20T00:54:00.000+01:00

Photos taken in Fremantle, Western Australia

(Shirt: Madewell. Shoes: 3.1 Phillip Lim "Nina". Pants: Asos cropped trousers. Bag: Alexander Wang "Kirsten Satchel". Rings: Fashionology. Bangles: random. Fishnet stockings: borrowed from mum. Lips: Revlon "Orange Flip". Sunglasses: Elizabeth and James)

This is the millionth post featuring this bag and these shoes.... and for that I'm sorry. Actually, no I'm kind of not ;) I simply love both pieces and I'm enjoying wearing them to death... after all, isn't that what the "new clothes resolution" was all about anyway? I'm enjoying finding new ways to wear these shoes, and I was so inspired by the Alexander Wang Fall 2012 RTW collection, that I just couldn't help but spruce them up with some skanky ol' fishnets. These particular fishnets are just oh-so-barely there, just like the shoes! What a perfect match. I originally bought these pants for work to replace the ones I lost (seriously, how the hell do you lose a pair of pants???), but decided to wear them in a casual outfit before they get basketballer's sweat and swimmer's chlorinated water all over them. Lately I've been dressing slightly more sophisticated and "grown up" than what I normally would.... and I like it!

Kaye xx

instructions for my Isabel Marant DIY top

2012-02-18T17:10:00.000+01:00

As promised, here is the tutorial for my Isabel Marant inspired DIY shirt.

I used this youtube video to sew my patch pockets. Here's the way that I did it:

1. Select your material

I bought a chequered shirt from cotton on for about $20.
I then found some fabric from Spotlight that "clashed" with the coloured checks on the shirt. The fabric was only 75c!

2. Unpick the pockets

This shirt already had pockets so I unpicked them, ready to be replaced with my "clashing" pockets.

3. Sew the top

I drew a template and outlined it on the fabric, ready to be cut.

I then sewed the top section of the pocket.

4. Pin and iron

I pinned about a 1cm seem around the other three edges, and ironed the edges to keep my pocket flat.

5. Secure and sew

I then secured my pocket on wit a bobby pin or two and simply stitched around the three edges.

So at the end of the day, I made a shirt for around $20.75, when the real deal cost $300.
WIN!

Kaye xx

Isabel Marant DIY top

2012-02-16T00:00:00.000+01:00

This tutorial has been a loooong time coming!
I've been obsessed with this Isabel Marant shirt ever since I first saw the runway images on style.com. As part of my "new clothes resolution", I'm going to ask myself questions 2:

2. Is it possible to DIY? If so, would I be just as happy with my own creation?

Answer: Yes and yes.

(Shirt: DIY. Shoes: 3.1 Phillip Lim. Shorts: Freez. (<------ seen waaaaay back here). Sunglasses: River Island)

So here it is!! My DIY Isabel Marant shirt.
You can tell by my hair and the lens used in these photos that these were taken a while ago.... like I said, it's been a long time comin'!!

I'LL POST THE TUTORIAL TOMORROW! PROMISSSSEEE!

Kaye xx

An update on my sewing progress

2012-02-14T05:23:00.001+01:00

It has been a while since my last outfit post. Things are really busy at the moment so it has been difficult trying to find the time to sit down in front of the sewing machine for a concentrated amount of time. BUT after spending a few nights and weekends slaving away I have some pieces to ....talk about. I still need to photograph them, so here is a sneak peak of a Burdastyle inspired ensemble.

1. A brocade jacket with a boned cuff.

2. A simple tank top with a floral pocket

3.Burgandy coloured high waisted shorts.

red-orange-red-orange red-orange.....

2012-02-12T16:21:00.000+01:00

(Shoes: 3.1 Phillip Lim "Nina". Sunglasses: Asos. Bag: Alexander Wang "Kirsten" satchel. Dress: Asos)

This dress has helped me whisk through every social occasion over the last couple of weeks. From breakfast with the boy, to catch up drinks at a girlfriend's house, to dinner at The Garden with friends. And let me just say that I am obsessed with this orange-red shade lately (these jeans have had a number of appearances on the blog already).

If you follow us (or should I say ME) on Instagram, you would have seen these sunglasses make their debut already. If you are connected to the Instagram machine via the Internet machine via your iPhone machine, you can follow away!! Typey-type @fickle_sense to find me..... and don't be a stranger. Say hi!!!

Kaye xx

Run DMC

2012-02-08T00:00:00.001+01:00

(Top: second hand. Shorts: Sportsgirl. Vest: second hand. Shoes: Friend Of Mine Hutton Boots. Bag: Alexander Wang Kirsten Satchel)

Three Things I Would Like to Point Out in This Post

ONE

My new lens! It made it's debut in the last post. My new f1.4 makes oh-so-slightly-distant things look oh-so-creamy. Why did I not purchase it sooner?!

TWO

My second hand Run DMC tank. I was at a friend's house and she pointed to a rack of clothing. "Want dibs on any of this stuff before I sell it at the markets?" This top dangled on the edge of the rack. While I mumbled about how I loved it's grotty, worn raw-edged goodness, I shoved it into my bag.

THREE

My new hair cut. Blonder, shorter.

I'm not sold.

What do you guys think?

Kaye xx

my Fickle Sense "K" bag - test run to the Kalamunda markets

2012-02-05T11:07:00.000+01:00

(Photos taken at the Kalamunda markets yesterday)

(Bag: Fickle Sense. Top: NastyGal. Jeans: Topshop via eBay < ---- worn here and here. Shoes: Asos. Bag: Alexander Wang "Kirtsen Satchel". Sunglasses: Elizabeth and James "Lafayette")

This bag is something special....

There is a crazy girl in Berlin who jumps on her bike, rides to the local markets and purchases metres of calico. She jumps back on her bike and she rides off to her little apartment. She uses eco-friendly ink to screen print a design onto the fabric that she carefully cuts to size. She spends hours transforming the material into good quality totes, being sure to reinforce, over lock, fasten and stitch it up until it's durability is ensured.

This crazy girl just happens to be my sister, mahaila.

When my own personalised tote arrived at my house in Australia aaaaaaaall the way from Berlin, I knew that it had a story behind it. Having known exactly what goes into each and every one of these totes - meaning not only the labour, but the passion that drives it - I'll never under-estimate the value of hand-made, eco-friendly clothing and accessories.

Kaye xx

HAPPY BIRTHDAY MAHAILA!!!

2012-02-03T14:32:00.000+01:00

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO MY BIG SISTER

MAHAILA!!!

I'd rather be in Berlin with you right now drinking that amazing Riesling from that cool bar, eating caramel Milka chocolate, visiting the Turkish markets and consuming curry-wurst.... Damn I miss that stuff.

I hope you're enjoying your day, German style.

Please send me more caramel Milka chocolate, I practically inhaled that bar you sent me.

Kaye xxxxxxxx

The Fickle Sense Shop! .... is finally here

2012-02-02T09:15:00.000+01:00

Fickle Sense Etsy Shop!here

Yay! I am elated to announce that we have finally opened the Fickle Sense shop on Etsy. Yes, we're in business! I apologise for my lack of posts in the recent months, I have just been flat out making the products and setting up the shop. All products are handmade by myself and environmentally friendly.

At the moment you can choose any letter from the alphabet for a handmade screen printed tote bag. You can also find some vintage DDR button earrings in various colours!

Come and visit! And watch this space for some celebratory give aways!

monochrome - with a little colour

2012-01-30T00:00:00.002+01:00

I've tried white on white so many times... and have always opted out because I haven't got the quality pieces. Like... you know, a white shirt (except this one which is pretty ill fitting).

SOURCE

Shirt: Equipment

Jeans: Victoria Beckham < ---- Im going to play with these old ones!

Shoes: Bertie Noshaq

Belt: Maison Boinet <---- cheaper one here from Asos

Bag: Topshop

Friendship bracelets: Marc by Marc Jacobs or I would take a pick from these Etsy bracelets

Creative Firday: Interview ACIDZIP

2012-01-27T09:53:00.000+01:00

On this Creative Friday we are featuring the jewellery designer ACIDZIP. I really love the simplicity and the delicacy in her designs. I feel like I could team her jewellery with a heap of outfits or even create a garment around the jewellery. It sure was a treat to sit down and chat with her about her jewellery line, life in Berlin and creativity! I love the point that she makes about just going for it! Don't wait until the "right time". There is no "right time", just hurray up and do it. AGREED!

Ting from ACIDZIP Photo: Michael Dooney

Where are you from?
I was born in China but spent the majority my time in Canada. I recently moved from Toronto to Berlin and am still trying to make myself feel at home here.

What is your art/craft and where can we find it?
I make jewelry that often feature porcupine quills. My items are currently available on my Etsy store (http://www.etsy.com/shop/acidzip) and in a boutique called Victoire located in Ottawa (so if you ever find yourself in Canada…) Berlin shops are on my to-do list so hopefully soon!

What are the positives in buying handmade items?
I love producing and purchasing handmade items because I know that there is a story behind every item. Each item has been made with care and I’m a total sucker for details.

Where do you find inspiration?
The Internet. To be more specific, the Internet and it’s endless source of beautiful images and the wonderful people who create them. I’m very visual so I often find myself sifting through blogs and tumblr for images that simply “click” with me.

What motivates you to create?
Jewelry making started out as an outlet for my pent up creativity but now it’s the feedback that keeps me going. There is nothing better than seeing people react to your pieces and hearing back from satisfied customers.  

What encouraging words/advice would you give to someone who is interested in sparking their creativity?
If you have an idea or vision, just go for it! I sat on the fence for years and now wish that I had started earlier. It will never seem like the "right time" and you will never feel like you have enough time but once you start it will be hard to ever give up.

lolly shop

2012-01-23T00:00:00.000+01:00

Tank: Agent 99. Shoes: Shoebox. Bag: Alexander Wang. Pants: Tripp NYC.

I can't believe I haven't posted these jeans before... I wear them A LOT. Robert snapped these shots of me before dinner in Fremantle.

Kaye xx

Creative Friday: My knitting setting

2012-01-20T12:22:00.000+01:00

Thanks to Michael I now own a very shiny circular needle knitting set. I just love having quality products like this.
I am now on the look out for a new circular knitting challenge.

Last year I was challenged by Kaye to knit some shorts. If you have been  following us for a while, you might remember that this project took me a  while to complete. It was definitely one of my most difficult design challenges

mahaila knitted shorts

So at the moment I am thinking of warming up with a simple snood. 

I might then knit a jumper or another pair of shorts. Perhaps I will experiment with patterns, like this jumper from ASOS. 

If you are looking for inspirational knit wear images, check out the The Dark knit blog. It is solely dedicated to fashion and knit wear and she designs her own pieces too.  

My handmade Christmas treat

2012-01-17T11:14:00.001+01:00

Top: LUI LUI Photos: Michael Dooney

Last year we interviewed a knit wear designer Esther from LUI LUI on the blog. If you look at the previous post you can see that she let me try on one of her garments. I never go clothes shopping because I make all of my own clothes, so it was nice to try on a handmade item that I hadn't made. The next time that I saw this knitted top was on Christmas morning! Michael had gone back to the a loja store and purchased the top that I had tried on. It was a nice surprise! I really love this top. I love the design, I love the colours and I like that I feel a little European in it... if that makes sense. In Perth we don't wear a hell of a lot of knit wear because of the weather. So wearing something which makes me feel wintery is kind of nice:)

Speaking of winter wear, only recently have I noticed that people have different expectations of what someone should wear in the winter months. I bring this up as my colleagues keep asking me if I am cold because I don't wear jeans. At weekly intervals someone always feels the need to come up to me and ask me why I wear skirts. I wear 1 pair of stockings and then 1 pair of woollen tights over these stockings. But I don't really feel the need to explain myself. So I just end up saying 'no, I am not cold'. Can someone inform me as to whether there is an unwritten rule regarding jeans and winter??? Anyhoo, hope you are enjoying the weather where ever you are located in the world.

my sunday go-to

2012-01-15T08:24:00.000+01:00

Perth is so crazy hot right now, there is no way I could wear this. But on a usual Sunday, this is the ideal version of my go-to outfit... the real life version is not as fancy as this.

SOURCE

Bag: Celine <---- the bag that replaces this in real life is my Wang. But in a couple of years I think I'll invest in something a little more classic like this one.

Shoes: Dolce and Gabbana <---- a more budget friendly version here

Tank: Zoe Karssen <---- this would be super easy to DIY

Jeans: Diesel <---- the boyfriend style reminds me that I should dig out these again!

Creative Friday: Snou

2012-01-13T10:11:00.000+01:00

A few weeks ago we met up with the jewellery designer, Lucia from Snou*. Going to her studio was really nice. She is so energetic and enthusiastic and it is reflected through her unique creations. Thanks to Lucia for spending the time to show us around her studio. Make sure you check her designs out!

Lucia from Snou* Photo: Michael Dooney

Where are you from?

I was born in Puerto Rico and lived there for 27 years.

What is your art/craft and where can we find it?

I design and make snou* a line of contemporary jewelry, available online at www.snou.biz and through various stores and galleries such as Or-est in Berlin-Prenzlauerberg, Promobo in Berlin- Mitte and others.

What are the positives in buying handmade items?

I can only see positive sides to buying handmade. First of all today there is a huge movement of creative people offering all sorts of handmade, unique, high-quality items. By buying their products you do not only support them, you support alternative microeconomies. Plus when you buy original pieces directly from the maker you get the best personal service from the people who make these things with their hands, minds and hearts.

Where do you find inspiration?

For me life and work are so much entwined together, life brings all sorts of sources for inspiration if you keep your eyes open. Nature, music, travels, experiences, art are some of the sources I can identify.

What motivates you to create?

Every jump from idea to reality involves some degree of experimentation, when I surprise myself with an outstanding result, this becomes motivation for the next experiment.

What encouraging words/advice would you give to someone who is interested in sparking their creativity?

The path of creativity is a very hard one, but bringing forth something new and special out of the dark reaches of the mind where ideas generate and seeing it become real and surpass your own expectations is among the most rewarding experiences of life.

Snou* shop
Snou* blog

2012-01-10T04:12:00.000+01:00

(Bag: Alexander Wang. Top: Topshop. Shoes: Friend of Mine. Shorts: random (old). Rings: Fashionology and a market in Florence)

Photos taken in Albany

The bag and shoes were bought during the end of year sales as part of my "new clothes resolution" (you've already seen a little of the shoes here) - I still can't bring myself to pay full price, but I'm getting there. I'm officially addicted to good quality accessories! I haven't bought anything from a chain store in a loooooong time - I love exhausting my current pieces and finding new ways to wear them. I had actually bought a pair of boots in a similar colour. In my blog post I had noted:

"I should stop kidding myself with all these fancy shmancy colour variations. I do love my black."

However I think I was just so wrong! It was the quality that stopped me wearing them. How do I know this? Because I wear my new Friend of Mine boots with everything!- Are you joining me in the "new clothes resolution", dear readers? Please tell us how it's going!

Kaye xx

Berlin Half Marathon all the way I say!

2012-01-08T23:35:00.002+01:00

Firstly, apologies for my recent sporadic (or rather lack of) posts. Yes I WAS off to a poor start to the year..... but I decided to turn it all around. I am ssssoooooo looking forward to 2012. It WILL be a year full of energy, enthusiasm, hard work, love and creativity (oh and of course sewing!) .... and what better way to kick this all off other then to sign up for the Berlin half marathon. Thats right! Michael and I have started a 3 month training schedule which will hopefully prepare us for the 21.0975 km run on the 1st of April.

Bonds chesty top

BUT there is one problem! I am completely guilty of wearing THE daggiest (for our non Aussie readers, here is how the "Australian National dictionary" defines the term dag: Dag : A ‘character’, someone eccentric but entertainingly so)  THE oldest and THE most unattractive clothes whist exercising. So in an effort to change this I am going to be sewing a few items which I can look forward to wearing on the 1st of April. I have never sewn any athletic type garments before, so it should be a nice little challenge. However I will not promise to stop wearing my old daggy items whilst training.

CUT #4 "Jacke Luca" pattern

MY PLAN 

At the moment these are the items that I am thinking of making

1. JACKET - The jacket "Jacke Luca" from the CUT mag #4(they have a pattern for adding a hoodie too here)

2. TOP - I love my old Bonds chesty. I don't think they make them any more, so I will be recreating a similar shaped top. 

3. LEGGINGS - I never used to wear leggings, but the weather here in Berlin tends to be a little nippy so I like to wear leggings with shorts. I think that I will draft a pattern for leggings and make a few for the year

4. SHORTS - I am still at a loss as to what shorts to make, perhaps in a similar style to these Nike shorts. I don't know, I have to do a little more research (I love that these one's are Dockers (an Australian football team) coloured).  

So over the next few months I will let you know how we have progressed, regarding both running and sewing! 

Our initial run: 5.6 km in approx 30 minutes. 

P.S. What do you like to exercise in? I am open to suggestions! 

floral fever - it's everywhere and im here to join the party

2012-01-06T13:22:00.000+01:00

I've never colour blocked in my life. But give me bright floral on a black background and Im happy - I guess I have Celine to thank.

As part of my "new clothes resolution", I'm trying not to buy any trend based items for a while. So instead I will be letting my imagination run free via Polyvore.

If I had my way this is what I would be wearing..... right. now.

SOURCE

Pants: Tata Naka

Tank: Monki

Shoes: Asos

Bag: The Row < ---- the price of this was almost too insane to include in the post. But this is the PERFECT black backpack.

Sunglasses: Asos < ---- I will be buying these. Too cheap and too awesome to pass up. Especially as my friends keep calling me John Lennon whenever I wear these, which is a reference I take compliment to.

DIY instructions for my breakfest top

2012-01-04T00:00:00.003+01:00

As promised, her is the tutorial for the pinned muscle tank that I wore to Breakfest! If you missed my inspiration, you can find it here and if you missed the outfit post you can find it here.

Most things needed for this DIY are household items which is why I love it so much! I realised that I needed more items than those pictured above, so here's the list:

You will need:

A black crew neck T-Shirt (I got mine for $7 from Kmart)

Safety pins

Fabric scissors

Rubber gloves

Bleach

Black fabric paint

A ruler

A sponge

Sticky tape

A4 paper

An old cloth

Newspaper

1. Wash.

Get you T-Shirt nice and wet.

2. Bleach

Use an old cloth to rub the bleach into the top. Apply the bleach haphazardly to give more of a washed look. Then hang out the T-Shirt and let the bleach do it's thing. Keep a close eye on it because the colour will change quickly. When you're happy with it, throw it in the wash.

3. Dry and cut

Hang your top out to dry - and admire the DIY "washed look" that you've created! It's now time to get cutting. Cut the sleeves off just past the seem - because it is a jersey fabric, you don't need the stitching as it won't fray.

Do the same for the neckline.

5. Make your stencil

I used the width of a 30cm ruler to make my cross. Mark it out with a pencil on A4 paper and cut it out. Position it onto your T-Shirt.

6. Sticky tape and sponge

Secure your stencil with sticky tape. Use a sponge to apply the fabric paint over your stencil. Don't forget to position newspaper inside your top to prevent bleeding on the other side. You'll also need to iron your paint on after it's dried so it doesn't come off in the wash.

7. Cut along the side stitching
Now start making room for your pins. Simply cut out the stitching on the side of your tank.

7. Pinning
Now pin it back together. I put a hard book under the fabric to make it easier to line up the two edges. Pin it all the way to the top. Repeat on the other side of the T-Shirt.

8. Finished!
And there you have it! Please let us know if you give it a go - or if you've tried your own spin on it! We would love to see some pictures of your own creations :)

Kaye xx

my completed breakfest top

2012-01-03T00:00:00.003+01:00

(shorts: Sportsgirl. Top: DIY. Shoes: Kmart)

I finished my diy top! It's already been put into action - at the Breakfest festival! The day was kind of amazing... you would have seen a few pics while I was at the event if you follow us on twitter. I'll just finish up the tutorial and I'll post it tomorrow. Ill catch you then! :)

Kaye xx

new years eve

2012-01-02T05:04:00.001+01:00

Happy 2012!!

To celebrate our new years eve, robert and I ditched our initial plans of attending Origin (a music festival with tickets priced at $110 each, and that's without drinks and a ride home), and joined our friends at their house party. For only $13 (the cost of my bottle of wine), we took turns on the decks, set absinthe alight, drank, danced, played table tennis, danced, drank, ran, squealed, drank... and just had fun. A great way to ring in the new year.

Christmas in Albany

2011-12-29T19:01:00.000+01:00

My Christmas in Australia was a little different to mahaila's Christmas. I spent a few days at robert's parents house in Albany - a town 4.5 hours south of Perth. Their sweet country house was a wonderful getaway. While I found it difficult to settle down and actually do nothing, I eventually gave into my surroundings and relaxed. I think it had something to do with my donning a plaid shirt (previously worn here) and chilling out in the sun with a cool glass of pear cider.

Kaye xx

A creative christmas: Tutorial Christmas scraps chain!

2011-12-25T22:49:00.000+01:00

Merry Christmas from Berlin! This was our first 'Berlin with a hint of Aussie splashed in there' Christmas. Even though it was difficult being away from the friend and family unit we did manage to embrace some of the German Christmas traditions. 

Our Aussie infused Berlin Christmas 

1.Drinks - First on the list was Glühwein (natürlisch mit Schuss!).  

2.Food - I cooked up a German vs. Aussie storm, Lebkuchen, Berliner Brot, Kipferln + Aussie rum balls. Germans seem to eat Geese at Christmas but we opted for the Turkey and roasted veges Aussie style.

3. Christmas tree - As you can see from the photos we bought a sweet little tree from around the corner and had a laugh whilst walking it home. Though we made the amateur mistake of treating it if it were a plastic tree. My German guests kindly advised me that I was doing it ALL wrong and that I needed to reassess my tree maintenance skills. Next time supply some water for the bloody thing.  

4. Decorations - We had the traditional German window light display. Mandarin's punctured with cloves were scattered on the table. Aussie creatures, namely kangaroos, koalas and turtles were displayed in amongst the christmas tree branches.

 "Christmas scraps chain"

This year I wanted to spread a little Christmas cheer and make some decorations for our apartment. Looking over at my fabric scraps I decided to make a "Christmas scraps chain". It's pretty simple stuff. Here is how I did it. 

1. Look through your fabric scraps

2.  Cut your fabrics into roughly 18cm x 3.5 strips. Then press the sides  (about 0.5 cm) inwards, like when you make bias tape. I used my new Bias  tape tool. 

If you don't have a bias tape tool and you want to try out a new method, you can perhaps check out this little tutorial from Creative Little Daisy 

3. Make a lot of these little fellas with your scraps

4. After you have collected a few of your strips, sew the edges down, so that they are a little neater

5. With right sides together sew the fabric piece together to create a loop

6. Turn your loop, right sides out

7. Now get your next strip and place it through your loop

8.With right sides together sew the next loop together 

9. Turn the loop so that the right sides are facing out

Keeping it neat 

At this stage you can turn the joining edges of both loops so that they are facing each other. Notice in the photo below that you can not see the joins. With a few stitches, secure these pieces together on the join. 

10. Continue looping your strips and sewing to create the chain 

11. Sew loop

12. And you are finished! 

13. Proudly hang it up!

I liked this project. I couldn't help but reflect upon my previous sewing ventures as each piece of the chain reminded me of particular garments. Gee I have learnt a lot! and I will continue to learn through 2012. Merry Christmas everyone. Spread the cheer! hope you had a good one.

breakfest preparations

2011-12-24T00:00:00.000+01:00

Image credits: unknown, lovemore, topshop, unknown

This year mahaila and I are spending Christmas on opposite sides of the globe. While mahaila enjoys her first white Christmas (jealous), I am experiencing Australia's typical hot and dry Christmas. For me, this means family, friends, barbecued prawns, the beach and big glasses of chilled pear cider - we have the typical turkey for festivity purposes despite the impracticality of the heat that comes from the oven.

As much as I love our Aussie Christmas, I'm going to make a disgusting confession - the day after Christmas is (in my book) the best day of the year. IT'S BREAKFEST! Breakfest is an annual Perth music festival featuring the best artists in breaks music. After a day of presents, good food, family and fun, it feels great to dance around in the sun drinking wine with friends, listening to some amazing tunes. I don't care much for festival fashion and as its usually about 40 degrees Celsius out at the belviour amphitheatre, you don't have a choice but to just wear a loose tank top and shorts.

I want something like this, this or this but as part of my "new clothes resolution" I'm going to ask myself question number 2:

Is it possible to DIY? If so, would I be just as happy with my own creation?
Answer: Yes and yes.

I've had all of the above images saved in my "DIY" and "Inspiration" folders for aaaaages. Clearly I've never got the idea of crosses, muscle tees and safety pins out of my head - so I thought that it was about time I dominated my local Kmart and haberdashery store. These are the items I've decided I'll need.........................

Not long now.... I'll keep you guys updated!

Kaye xx

I want....

2011-12-22T17:43:00.000+01:00

1. I want a brogue that's a little different

2. I want a brogue that's... a lot different.

3. I want to look as though I've walked in paint.

5. I want some armour

here, here, here and here

An outfit fit for Autumn

2011-12-21T02:59:00.001+01:00

mahaila made skirt and top Photos: Michael Dooney

In an effort to improve my German language abilities I have recently spent some time trying to decifer the patterns in the Burdastyle sewing magazines. I have great difficulty with these patterns as the sizing is often off, so I am constantly making significant alterations. I thought that it was a result of my poor German comprehension, however after chatting with some native German speaking sewing mates, they informed me that they also have problems with Burda. Perhaps thats what you get when you pay 5 euros for a heap of patterns. Does anyone else have problems with the sizing??? On the plus side I am improving my alteration skills.

The skirt.
This is one of my easy 'built around the waist' skirts. And I know that I have been promising it for a while, BUT hopefully the tutorial for these types of skirts will be up soon. I am sooooo busy at the moment WAY too many projects and soooo little time.

The top
I am trying to make one pattern out of every Burdastyle magazine, so this was my September 2011 issue effort. Perhaps not the best fit, but I do love my vintage red buttons:)

We took these photos when it was still warm enough to take them. I love Berlin Autumns. The colours are so very inspiring!

Reminder:

The new CUT magazine is out! so check it out.

outback jack

2011-12-19T00:00:00.001+01:00

(Top: Sportsgirl. Skirt: Second hand (found in mum's wardrobe). Shoes and bag: Asos)

If you follow us on twitter (actually scrap that - I am the only one who attempts to tweet daily ramblings. A recent skype conversation between mahaila and I revealed that she's not that into it - sorry guys, its just me!) you may have seen this print combo before.

Thanks to mum who took these shots for me. My mum's love of nature always leads us to these kinds of locations (remember this post???) Mum was determined to shoot with the Kangaroo Paw in the second picture (for our non-Aussie readers, that's a plant - not to be confused with an actual kangaroo). Instead of posing awkwardly next to the plant as per my mother's instruction, I just took a photo of it for you ;)

Creative Friday: Interview with Vintageblues

2011-12-16T19:24:00.000+01:00

Say hello to Sarah from Vintageblues! She creates really sweet and unique pieces of jewellery, which you can see below. We met up with her in a Berlin park during the Autumn months to take these photos. She definitely had some inspiring words!

Sarah fromVintageblues Photograph: Michael Dooney

Where are you from?

I am from Belgium but I have been living in Berlin since Summer 2010. I have lived in Berlin before, during my studies, but the city is still as exciting to me as during my first stay.

What is your art/craft and where can we find it?

Handmade jewelry – earrings, necklaces, brooches, bobbypins and rings. I sell my jewelry on my blog and on The Vintageblues facebook site. During Summer you can find me on popular Berlin flea markets such as Mauerpark and the Nowkoelln flea market.

What are the positives in buying handmade items?

I like the thought that someone really sits down and spends time creating something.

Where do you find inspiration?

My blog is called The Vintageblues which is a reference to my love for old movies, vintage clothing, and dreamy photographs. I try to reflect these loves in my jewelry. I also try to make one special collection for each season, which is inspired by the colors and feelings of the respective season.

What motivates you to create?

Moving to Berlin was the biggest motivation for me. This city is so vibrant and inspiring. You meet so many young people who just try to pursue their dreams and do what they love, even when they struggle sometimes and even when it means not having the big money and career.

What encouraging words/advice would you give to someone who is interested in sparking their creativity?

There can only be regrets if you didn´t try. And also: use the social media to promote your creations.

You can find more of her items on her Vintageblues blog and her Dawanda shop. She also sells her creations at the little shop Fach Frau in Prenzlauerberg, Berlin. So if you are in town, check it out!

lace slippers

2011-12-15T18:30:00.000+01:00

We've seen plenty of lace ankle boots, knee high boots and pumps for an exuberant amount of cash. However I'm particularly taken by these lace slippers from Asos. If it weren't for my "new clothes resolution", I'd be partnering these pretty slippers with my particularly ugly ones. They'd be the perfect couple.

kaye xx

new clothes resolution: question 1

2011-12-13T06:28:00.000+01:00

The new clothes resolution continues. When I find something that I like while doing my usual perusing on the internet, before I click it home, I ask myself two questions:

1. Can I substitute it with something I already have in my closet?

2. Is it possible to DIY? If so, would I be just as happy with my own creation?

To prove that I can overcome my wardrobe dilemmas by asking myself these two questions, I thought I might do an experiment. When cleaning my room, I found a box that I had labelled "For eBay". Of course I had ~~not got round to~~ not actually bothered to sell the clothes in said box, and so was able to recover this old Supre grey pencil skirt from about 7 years ago. Complete with wrinkles and the tag sticking out....

1. Can I wear something I already have in my closet?

Answer: YES!

(Pencil skirt: Supre (old). Top: Random. Bag: Gift from mum (old). Necklace: Lovisa. Shoes: 3.1 Phillip Lim)

So using all old clothes, an old bag, a trend-based necklace from a chain store and (my only) investment accessory, I was able to create something I'm happy with. I've actually always loved all-grey outfits and I had one right under my nose the whole time... so what do you think? Do you think I'm on to something?

Watch this space... I'm going to attempt question 2 soon.

Kaye xx

new clothes resolution: it begins

2011-12-11T09:47:00.000+01:00

I've heard that the skeleton of a woman's wardrobe should consist of good quality investment pieces. It should be fleshed out with cheaper high end items used to keep it fresh and modern. Well I think I'm doing it backwards. I have a wardrobe full of cheapy cheapness and as part of my "new clothes resolution" I'm trying to enhance it's wear-ability by building an arsenal of pieces that I can use for years to come. So here we have the first purchase. I still can't bring myself to pay full price for designer shoes, so when these babies came on sale they were MINE!!!

Kaye xx

Creative Friday: LUI LUI

2011-12-09T10:25:00.003+01:00

This week we are featuring a fantastic knit designer LUI LUI. Her designs are really lovely and I was lucky enough to try on one of her new winter collection pieces. The new LUI LUI winter collection is inspired by Norweigen style knitting. After visiting her I decided to do a little research on Norweign knitting and I have knitted a few little creations myself! She is definitely an inspiring designer!

If you are in Berlin this weekend you should defintely head down to the Weihnachtskater Markt at Kater Holzig. You can find LUI LUI designs there as well as heaps of other Berlin based designers.

Esther from LUI LUI with her sweet little dog Photo by Michael Dooney

Where are you from?

Actually I’m a small town girl from Franconia in the Middle of Germany but eight years ago I came to the big and inspiring city Berlin. I came here to be anonymous, to be who I really am, to feel free and to feel the pulse of this city full of life. And now I’m stuck here.

What is your art/craft and where can we find it?

I’m knitting. Knitted fashion. At the moment you can find it in a little shop in Berlin/Kreuzberg called A loja. Me and three friends, we are running this little shop which is also our atelier. It’s the place where we are creative, working and you can find these pieces. This shop is full of lovely handmade young fashion pieces and most of the designers are from Berlin. A loja also has an online shop (http://www.alojaberlin.com/) where you can find LUI LUI. And of course it’s also available on Dawanda (http://de.dawanda.com/shop/LUILUILOVE)

What are the positives in buying handmade items?

Handmade items are unique. Every piece looks a different and has its own story. I also love those little faults, they make them so human. You can see the time and work which are contained and last but not least you can feel all the love with which it was produced. And I also like to support young designers with good ideas and creativity.

Where do you find inspiration?

I don’t get my inspiration in fashion magazines or from other designers. Actually I don’t care what is going on in the fashion scene.

On the one hand knitting is like science. It’s all about mathematics, rows, stitches, the single needles of the machine, the different options the machine is giving you.

And on the other hand the different kind of materials with nature is giving us. How they flow and what they feel like on our skin.

It’s my inspiration to combine the rational part of knitting with the emotional. And in the end every single piece is an image of myself.

What motivates you to create?

I don’t do this because I studied or learned it. I also don’t do it for the money. It’s more to do something from the heart. May be this sounds very romantic. Actually this is my way to express my feelings. And I hope to give love to others with the items of LUI LUI.

What encouraging words/advice would you give to someone who is interested in sparking their creativity?

Do it!! Express yourself! There is nothing to be scared of. Take every chance and you will get feedback and love of other people. You only have to believe in what you do.

<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<

This where you can find her this weekend!

paper bags

2011-12-07T15:34:00.000+01:00

I don't know why but wherever I go, I want to look like I'm carrying my lunch.

These clutches are all handmade from a single piece of real leather.

And for our Aussie readers - guess what? The shipping to Australia is cheap as chips.

I know, I know... I let out a sigh of relief when I found out too.

here

Kaye xx

my furry spikey friends

2011-12-03T11:48:00.001+01:00

(Playsuit: Ted Baker. Denim vest and cardigan: Mum's old closet. Shoes: Romwe. Bag: Asos).

Staying true to my "new clothes resolution", these are some other goodies I found in my mum's old wardrobe, thrown over my very old playsuit. Alas, my new spiky furry friends are a new purchase.... I swear I ordered them before I promised to cut-down on my spending......

You might remember that I posted a similar version here, which I had deemed to be a tad pricey. After ordering these for around a third of the price ($53.7365 AUD to be exact), I was emailed shortly after to let me know that they had sold out. Then I found these on Romwe for a modest price and free shipping.

Whatever. They are on my feet. And I dearly love them.

Kaye xx

A not so creative Friday

2011-12-03T08:54:00.000+01:00

Sadly my little sewing machine decided to stop working yesterday. Apologies for skipping the Creative Friday post. I was certainly not feeling creative or motivated:(

out in the corn field

2011-11-30T08:51:00.000+01:00

mahaila made skirt and top, Burdastyle patterns.

Photos:Michael Dooney 

On a whirl wind 4 day trip from Berlin to Dresden to Prague to Munich to Leipzig to Lutherstadt Wittenburg.... we stopped off in a corn field to take some photos....yes we got lost and decided that it was a nice place for some photots. After taking these photos I realised that we don't seem to take many photos in the cities that we visit. We are certainly drawn to nature (even if it's man made nature). Perhaps we feel more comfortable or more at home.

 As previously posted here and here, both of these garments are varitations of Burdastyle patterns. I like the skirt in the second photo as you can see the brocade pattern.

getting back into it

2011-11-29T11:05:00.000+01:00

mahaila made skirt and top. Both based on Burdastyle patterns. 

We took these photos when Berlin had continual sunny days and I still had a broken hand. I am surprised that after a few months my hand is still a little bunged up...but having use of both hands again has allowed me to start sewing, knitting, crocheting and screen printing. YAY!I have also been experiencing a few weeks of creative flow. I just can't stop making things. Do you experience waves of creative productivity?

This top is my second version of the Burdastyle Herbst mag 2011 top. This one is made out of cotton and I just added a little floral pocket. The skirt is the Burdastyle bubble skirt, but I omitted the bubble as it looked incredibly strange. I think that I will be making another black skirt soon as I love to wear my different coloured stockings with them. I do have some sad news about my floral doc's.The sole has partially fallen away from the boot. I tried glueing them, but the glue was not strong enough. So I will be off to the shoe repairer. Fingers crossed I can get them fixed.

Creative Friday: Interview with Ozlem

2011-11-25T22:15:00.000+01:00

On a trip through Prague, Czech Republic we met up with the very talented Ozlem. Ozlem's passion for puppertry and stop animation led her to this part of the world as it is one of the few places which still teaches and appreciates this craft. She even learnt Czech! Her background in pupperty has certainly influenced her jewellery creations. My favourite piece is certainly the cat brooches!

Ozlem

Where are you from?

I'm from Turkey, been living in Czech Republic for 3 years.

What is your art/craft and where can we find it?

I'm making puppets and various kinds of jewelry. You can find them on my blog: www.madebyozlemakin.com or on my etsy page: ozlemakin.etsy.com

What are the positives in buying handmade items?
Apart from being the only one wearing that particular item, also helping out a fellow artist is a great feeling. And as an artist myself, I think we should appreciate handmade even more than anyone else.

black cat brooch

fruit salad earrings

Where do you find inspiritation?
From the city, people, books, comics, movies, tv serials, internet.. everywhere and everything.

What motivates you to create?
Things that inspire me also motivate me to create.

What encouraging words/advice would you give to someone who is interested in sparking their creativity?
Don't give up, be open and be free. Other ways of living and other point of views are possible

cut it out

2011-11-24T09:31:00.000+01:00

In sticking to my new clothes resolution, I ~~will not~~ probably not be buying any of these.

If you can't resist a good cut-out boot you can get these:
1. here (< ----- these are my fav)
2. here (<------- I've previously blogged the rust version here)
3. here, and
4. here (< ------ these are my runner up)

this blogger has something to say.....

2011-11-20T07:07:00.000+01:00

(Top: Agent 99. Denim vest and midi skirt: Vintage - from my mum's closet. Necklaces: Etsy. Shoes: K-Mart. Bag and sunglasses: Asos)

I think all bloggers find that inspiration ebbs and flows, and being the expressive people that we are, we feel the need to tell you all about it. So here we go....

I have to apologise for my recent absence on the blog.... it has been for a reason. Something happened to me last week.... my wardrobe BROKE under the WEIGHT of my clothes. It wasn't made of wood.... or plastic.... it was made of metal and it snapped like a twig. So this is where I start re-thinking about the way I buy/wear clothes.

Thanks to numerous cheap and impulsive purchases (and when I say cheap, its not really that cheap in the end), my wardrobe is not as wearable as it could be. Instead of buying 5 pairs of shoes that cost around $100 each, I would prefer to buy one pair of shoes with that money and wear them to death. So thanks to a recent rummage through my mum's old clothes and the collapse of my sturdy METAL wardrobe, I feel inspired to recycle clothing and purchase only investment pieces. I think that the end result will be more reflective of my personal style. Now, I am by no means saying that you won't see the odd inexpensive trend-based piece on this blog because you WILL (I love playing silly buggers with useless trendy sh*t just as much as the next person)... but having a sister that spends TIME exercising her CREATIVITY and PATIENCE in producing beautiful clothing makes me think... maybe I don't need fast fashion in my life as much as I thought I did.

Kaye xx

Creative Friday: CROBOTS!

2011-11-18T23:28:00.001+01:00

Zombibot

Mechanobot

Bopbot... at the Berlin beer festival.

When Kaye came to Berlin she brought a little present from our brother. It was a crobot book! What is a crobot?... well, apparently it's a crocheted little robot creature. I remember crocheting a little colourful square with my grandma when I was like 8, but haven't picked up the crochet hook since. So, thanks to the explanations and pictures I was able to make all of these little characters for my family:) I love my crobot book!

Steve Schapiro: Best exhibition:)

2011-11-15T01:11:00.000+01:00

(mahaila made top and skirt (based on Burdastyle patterns), plaid coat - best second hand find EVER!)

We hardly ever venture to the West of Berlin. Lets be honest, there is  not that much happening on that side. But we could not resist the short  treck when we heard that Steve Schapiro was having an exhibtion with a personal tour of his images. You may recognise some of his images. His 'Warhol and entourage' image is probably one of his most famous. 

                Steve Schapiro 

This was the best exhibition that I have seen... EVER. I know that is quite a statement, but who can resist a sweet, charasmatic, inpsiring elderly man bursting with exciting stories about his days as an influential photographer.  I loved his 'famous people' photos, but I really loved his documentation of world issues throughout the 50's and 60's. There were also many moving images from his documentation of Martin Luther King Jr, the Kennedy's amongst others which were featured in the exhibition. 

MY OUTFIT

I love this top. It is simple to make and I just can't stop wearing it. I have made another 2 versions(which I still have to post). This skirt was meant to bubble at the front. When I had cut it out and pinned it together, it looked a little ridiculous. Why would I want the skirt to look like I had a huge gaping tummy? So I incorporated rather large darts into the skirt to ensure a more fitted silhouette. This coat is my best second hand store find. I found it in Perth years ago. On the way to the Schapiro exhibtion on the train, a little old lady told me that I had an authentic coat on. She was pretty impressed :)

Creative Friday: Missus D

2011-11-11T14:12:00.001+01:00

A few weeks ago Michael and I were lucky enough to meet up with Kathleen from Missus D in Munich. She designs and crochets little creatures which are truly inspiring. I find her crocheted creations very structurally interesting. They are like mini sculptures of fun! They're so cute:)

Kathleen from Missus D Photos by: Michael Dooney

Where are you from?

I was born in Singapore, which is a very small island state on the southern tip of West Malaysia.

It is also nicknamed The Little Red Dot, because our small island is often obscured by the red dot referring to our location on the world map.

What is your art/craft and where can we find it?

I would say my craft is sculpting. I studied architecture because I wanted to build liveable sculptures, now I use yarn to make little soft sculptures using crochet techniques. You can find my work in my Etsy shop: www.missusd.etsy.com.

What are the positives in buying handmade items?

Oh, there are too many to point out. Firstly, in this case, 'handmade' refers to the fact of small scale local production. In this niche, we care about the source and quality of our materials. Each item is inspired and carefully created. There is a story behind our design. Most likely, buying handmade also means supporting small independent designers who are not employed to design things that sell, but they are designing out of pure joy and passion.

When you consume handmade, you are receiving more than an item. There is inspiration and a story behind it. The creator is not some faceless factory machine, but a person whom you can approach. You are supporting their passion and giving them credit they are worthy of.

Where do you find inspiration?

I find inspiration from people around me and things that amuse me. I like the geeky, humourous and slightly subversive things.

What motivates you to create?

Being inspired motivates creativity.

What encouraging words/advice would you give to someone who is interested in sparking their creativity?

We don't have to try to be creative, we ARE creative. It's just finding something to do that brings you and others joy when you do it. For example, my husband is not a very crafty person, but when it comes to making hilarious jokes, he is extremely creative. It is his ability to make such hilarious jokes that in turn inspires me to make something.

1/4 circle skirt maxi

2011-11-09T23:28:00.000+01:00

mahaila made skirt & top 

After calculating the circumference for the 1/4 circle skirt (you can find the tutorial here) I set to work with this navy blue fabric. As soon as it was cut, I knew that there was a problem.... it looked like a netball skirt. I love netball and it's one of my favourite sports, but I certainly do not want to be wearing the skirts off the court (though I admit, I am guilty of wearing my uniform to the shops on occasions...after a game that is!). I had this olive green fabric left over from a jumpsuit that I had previously made and added it to the bottom of the skirt to create the maxi. I am quite pleased with how it turned out. I am not the maxi wearing type, perhaps I am converted. On another note, I will be collating some of my ideas regarding alterations for the circle skirt in a tutorial.... hopefully soon:)  

the top: I can't stop making this top. The pattern is from the Burdastyle Herbst 2011 magazine. I have made 3 versions already! This is the first and I find myself wearing it often. 

Photos: Michael Dooney

studs, spikes, zips, buckles etc etc

2011-11-08T16:27:00.000+01:00

This guy could poke an eye out.

Here

INTERVIEW with Datchi

2011-11-06T09:49:00.000+01:00

A few months ago I was lucky enough to sit down with Leila (and her two cats) to talk about her clothing label Datchi. Datchi is an independent clothing company which produces one off upcycled garments as well as vintage inspired clothing. She also shares her love for sewing by offering sewing and pattern making courses:)

Leila from Datchi photo: Michael Dooney

Where are you from?

“I am originally from Calgary, Alburto, but I have spent the last 10 years in Montreal. So really I am from Montreal.”

What do you like about living in Berlin?

“I like the free spirit of the city and it seems like people can do what ever they want. It is not that conservative or aggressive. It's comfortable and it's fun.”

What is Datchi designs?

“It is an independent clothing company. I upcycle and have a vintage inspired clothing line. I sell it on line and I have been working with the kultpur shop in Kreuzberg.”

When did you start sewing and what is your background in fashion?

“As a kid I liked to sew. It was something that I did with my mum. I guess that it was something that I grew up with. I then went on to study fashion design. Once I got out of school I ended up working in a cubicle doing technical design, so it kind of took the joy out of fashion. I quit that job and found a job as a chef and ended up actually really liking that because it is also very creative.”

“I started sewing again when I was living in Montreal. As a chef I didn't have a lot of time to focus on fashion design, so I started to upcycle handbags. It was something I could do between work and free time. The response was really good. So I continued and I met some people who owned a DIY craft store and they were really interested in the upcycling, so I guess it kind of went from there. I started teaching a course in upcycling and then started getting more into making clothing. Moving to Berlin gave me the opportunity to focus on fashion design.”

What are your thoughts behind recycling and fashion

“The way that the world is at the moment, we are a throw away culture. I don't think we need to be producing waste and this is the idea behind upcycling. You don't have to throw it away you can change it and it also makes the clothing very unique.”

What is your view on sustainability, renewable resources e.g. bio cottons, bamboo vs. recycling

“Organic isn't always the key. For me it is more about buying locally and sustainably. As a cook I was really looking into sustainable growing. Organic laws are so strong and strict that a lot of things that are sustainably grown don't necessarily have that organic seal, but they are in fact organic. In Canada you can't call something organic unless the land that it is grown on, hasn't had any chemical treatment for at least 10 years. Sustainability and locality is more important”

What is particularly interesting about Upcycling?

“I like that you don't have a flat piece of material to work with. You have to think more about the dimensions, it's not necessarily concrete. You have to be very creative. You can't be stiff with it. You have to be open to changing your ideas and really working with the materials that you have. It's nice to be able to think outside of the box and do something different as a designer.”

Where do you find inspiration?

“I get inspired by whats around me. Architecture, human interaction, sites on my travels. I don't really like to sit in front of the computer and look at images. It's mainly through life experience and travelling.”

What is your advice for people who want to start sewing?

“I guess it's simply a matter of doing it, it doesn't have to be perfect. If you have an idea in your head you should try and work it out. Keep sewing. The more you sew the more confident you will become and the more you will understand the material that you are working with. There are also a lot of sewing courses that you can do which are not necessarily expensive".

Datchi Designs Website: http://datchi.webs.com/
Etsy Datchi Shop: http://datchi.webs.com/apps/etsystore/

Thanks Leila! for your time.
This was the second in a series of interviews which will become a regular instalment. Every Friday I will be posting some inspirational words from creatives within Europe.

statement choker

2011-11-05T00:00:00.001+01:00

I'm obsessed with collecting images of statement necklaces at the moment. Most of them are collar necklaces (thats a whooooole other post right there), but I just really can't resist the chokers. These are my favourites. Even though the first two are totally out of reach for me, I just had to include them.

Lanvin gunmetal choker via Net-A-Porter

Anndra Neen cage choker via Shopbop

Love Rocks gold tone choker via Asos

Kaye xx

I love the European autumn:)

2011-11-03T09:01:00.002+01:00

In an effort to capture some of the beauty of autumn, I went for walk through a few Berlin public spaces with my camera. I cringe when I think of the pending cold winter, but the Autumn colours certainly ease the pain:)

the long weekend

2011-10-31T03:43:00.000+01:00

Perth had a long weekend last week, so Robert and I headed down to Busselton to recharge our batteries and do some fun country activities. In Western Australia, we are so lucky to have such an amazing wine region right at our doorstep (we have over 150 wineries!). Robert and I love doing the wine tastings and then grabbing a delicious meal while looking out over the countryside. This time, we also went to one of the nearby beaches to frolick, all tipsy and happy. Yes. Frolick.

On the last day, I strongly insisted that we go to one of the local animal farms. When we rocked up and robert saw that the sign read "WONKY WINDMILL ANIMAL FARM", he was hesitant and made note that we would be the oldest people there. I knew that. But what better way to forget about patients, business paperwork, reports, emails and the general daily grind than to pat a pony and cuddle a rabbit.

In the Croatian hills.....

2011-10-28T15:35:00.000+02:00

Continuing with our trip through Croatia..................... 

From  the city, to the coast to the hills. As we drove through Croatia there  were a variety of traditional foods to try, beautiful scenery and wonderful locals. On one of our last days in Croatia we made our way through the hills to the stunningly beautiful Plitvice Lakes National Park. Unfortunately the continual rain put a little bit of a dampener on the whole experience, but I am glad that we took our poncho's! On our way back we were feeling quite cold and wet (yes it was meant to be summer!) and we stopped off at one of the roadside restaurants. Something that you can not miss in Croatia are the outdoor rotating spits. You can generally spot a little shed with smoke coming out of it with a picture (photo or drawing) nearby of a pig and a lamb on spits. We are not particularly big meat eaters and it was not all that nice to see these animals being cooked on the spit.... but at the same time I feel that slabs of meat displayed in plastic packaging isn't any different....anyway getting back to the Croatia trip. We had a lovely meal in the restaurant and it further validated that the Croatians really know how to make good quality food! These photos were taken around the restaurant, luckily enough, the sun come out a little:)

THE SKIRT

This is a skirt that I make when I feel like sewing something simple. I am currently putting together a tutorial regarding these types of skirts.... so keep watching this space! I was actually trying to create a 1940's inspired silhouette, but it didn't quite work out so I will have to add more volume and make the waistband a little tighter for the next trial. 

Photos: Michael Dooney

flat and fabulous

2011-10-25T12:00:00.002+02:00

1. AN OLD SOFTY

2. A DORKY PRINT

3. A CREEPER THAT WONT BREAK THE BANK

4. A HELL RAISER

I love my heels, but I've found some flat shoes that are really taking my fancy.................

1. I just cannot get enough plaid in my closet. I only just realised these are a men's shoe. That doesn't stop me.

2. I'd wear these with any outfit to add a bit of quirky charm.

3. All the creepers I have found have been around $150. These make the trend more affordable.

4. This is the second time these have sold out - I'm sitting on the fence with this shoe. Don't get me wrong, I like them... but the price leaves me a little hesitant to click them home.

Kaye xx

with a broken hand comes change

2011-10-23T12:16:00.000+02:00

Recently I broke my hand which has rendered me a little helpless in  my everyday activities (I can't even sew!) Though with all experiences  come positive outcomes. So this an opportunity to make some  changes.....starting with my hair! 

I have planned to cut my hair off for a while, but never  found the 'right' hairstyle. Having difficulties managing my hair with  one hand and feeling tired of my long hair, I decided to go to the  hairdresser and just have it cut. I was lucky enough to score a  friendly, talkative, English speaking, Austrian hairdresser. I now have a  hairdresser in Berlin! It was hilarious when he was hacking my pony  tail off, the elderly German lady sitting next to me nearly had a fit.  I, however was cool, calm and collected, ready for the change. Now I just have to find a good charity to send my bundle of hair to (if anyone knows of a good charity let me know. So far I have found a few cancer related charities) 

Within my recovery time I have had time to reflect and  perhaps a little too much time to read. I'm not a particularly religious  or spiritual person, so when searching for inspirational words I turn  to the works of fearless philosophers and scientists. My  readings have encouraged me to make some changes, so here are my 'New  'hair' resolutions'. 

My 'new hair resolutions' 

1. Be more disciplined and focused on my goals

2. Take time to be appreciative of my surroundings and the people within it. Be more social too!  

3. Work on fitness. Being fit = positive mood

4. Reading. Read more! and go to more museums

5. Continue to sew and create. Really start to experiment a little more 

6. Buy local, ethical products. Particularly food & sewing items

 7. Get on top of learning German. It's getting embarrassing!  

8. Organisation - Be organised (I am sure I have it in me..... somewhere)

9. Work hard... have fun in the process

Lets see how I go. Fingers crossed it will all happen! I will report back to you in a few months, regarding my progress.

Is anyone out there making proactive efforts to make some changes too???

kaye + mahaila in Berlin

2011-10-18T16:32:00.002+02:00

mahaila made items: 
Kaye's 1/2 circle skirt and mahaila's pencil skirt 

mahaila 

This was our second shoot together! The first being in Australia (here) and the second being in Berlin. Kaye visited us for a whirl wind 2 weeks... where unfortunately the weather was not all that fantastic, so we were fairly unmotivated to take photos whilst exploring the city.On one of the last days we made our way to one of the many green spaces here in Berlin for the shoot. 

I teamed my chequered pencil skirt (previously blogged here) with a secondhand Humana blouse, which has actually been home sewn. I love finding these handmade treasures:) 

Kaye's 1/2 full length circle skirt (you can also make this with this tutorial) is made of silk chiffon. Silk chiffon can be difficult to work with and you will need to hang the skirt before hemming to check the fall. For this particular skirt you need at least 2.5 metres of fabric with 150m bolt length.

Kaye 

I had been dying to have a shoot with mahaila while I was in Berlin. We hadn’t done one together in so long!

Mahaila had made this circle skirt for me after I sent her a pic of a maxi skirt earlier this year. She fitted the skirt while I was in Berlin and I had a wonderful present to take back home. The flowy chiffon and pretty floral print is really something special. 

I didn’t have much in my suitcase so I couldn’t style it quite the way I wanted to. When the weather gets a little warmer in Perth, I’ll be able to wear it exactly how I want, sky scraping heels and all!

Photography Michael Dooney  

Kitten heel - 1, Kaye - 0

2011-10-16T14:32:00.000+02:00

(Shirt: Topshop <--- previously worn here. Jeans: Topshop <---- previously worn here. Scarf: Borrowed from mum. Shoes: Witchery. Bag: Lily Rose. Sunglasses: River Island)

I've said it once and I'll say it again... platform shoes are so much easier to walk in than most heels! No matter how high they are, platforms are amazingly comfortable - I'm talking about the shoes worn previously here, here and here. As these Witchery shoes have a low kitten heel, I had planned for them to be my go-to's, but they are oh-so painful. I love their asymmetry, but the tough patent leather does not agree with my big toe. The strap kept slipping off my heel and so after tackling with it for an hour, they were swapped for flats :(

Creepers

2011-10-13T18:09:00.000+02:00

I most definitely cant afford the Burberry creepers.

So maybe these are an option.

Especially as they come in the colour of the season, maroon.

Here

Loving the nineties

2011-10-11T00:00:00.001+02:00

Im absolutely inspired by everything '90s at the moment. It's a decade that doesn't feel that long ago, does it? Girls that were once guilty of fighting over who was going to be Baby Spice have an apprehension to re-visit the decade that had us pulling our hair back with butterfly clips. It's almost like we feel that it's ok to wear the shoulder pads of the '80s and the flare jeans of the '70s because we weren't around then. We are putting a modern twist on something our mums once wore. But we feel a little uncomfortable breaking out that lace choker again don't we? And we aren't so keen on the idea of midriff are we? Not to mention those awkward little half-up hair-dos.

We've already seen some velvet and other 90's trends, I know. But I love girls that are brave enough to go all the way. I'm not saying I'm going to break out a mini backpack, don a spaghetti strap A-line mini dress and bedazzle my jeans in rhinestones. But I love seeing this look on girls that are confident in pulling it off .... Abby-Lee Kershaw I'm looking at you. My aim is to try it little by little. Baby steps.

Kaye xx

Berlin - a distant memory

2011-10-08T05:27:00.000+02:00

(Circle skirt dress: Made by mahaila < ------ check her tutorial here. Shoes: Kmart. Sunglasses: Free with a pack of Strongbow)

My trip to Europe now feels like a distant and magical memory. My patients at work still ask me about my favourite part of the trip. When they do, I immediately remember the feeling of what it was like to discover the little world that my sister has built for herself on the other side of the globe.

On this day, mahaila and I took advantage of the sunny weather and played table tennis out in the park. I wore mahaila's dress with my canvas lace-ups. Something about the sun and the beautiful city made me want to dress far more girly than usual. I kind of just wanted to skip around the city.

These sunglasses (which I lost in Amsterdam eeeeergggh!!!) have "STRONGBOW" written in large white writing on the side. For our international readers, Strongbow is a company that makes beer and cider. The Canadian guy on my tour asked, "Strongbow - is that an expensive designer in Australia?" After a little giggle to myself, I explained where I got them from :)

Kaye xx

Printed Jeans

2011-10-04T18:49:00.000+02:00

Absolutely obsessed with printed jeans lately.

LOVE L-O-V-E LOOOOOOVE

the jeans in the last picture... sorry its blurry, I got the image off my Facebook wall and have no idea what the original source is. And of course, the others are Isabel Marant - can't help but get involved in the Marant mania that seams to be happening lately.

If anybody knows whose jeans those are in the last picture, please lead the way!!

Kaye xx

Perth Royal Show 2011

2011-10-02T12:20:00.000+02:00

(Top, jacket and boots: Asos <---- previously worn a while ago here. Shorts: Sportsgirl. Sunglasses: River Island. Necklaces: Gift from mum and Etsy.)

I have never liked The Royal Show, even as a kid. My parents took us once and it was a bit of a flop. My show bag was sold out (I was only allowed one), I hated the jolt of the bumper cars, the crowds freaked me out and I lost my favourite denim glittered hat. I also got a sense that my parents just hated spending money on novelty crap. Maybe it rubbed off on me because I seem to be the only adult I know who doesn't enjoy paying money to play an impossible (rigged?) game to win an oversized stuffed animal.

This year however, Robert lives so close to the Royal Show, that his neighbours are standing out the front of their houses with parking signs reading "$15". Might as well head over and see if I enjoy it more as an adult, right? So while I avoided overloading my vestibular system on those blasted rides (how do people enjoy them?), I thought I would get into the festival spirit and eat my very first Dagwood Dog. OK, done. Now off to some wine tastings!! YUM!

With no show bags, no games, and no rides I really enjoyed the afternoon. Next time I should just go out to the Swan Valley.....

Kaye xx

CROATIA - Zlatni Rat Beach

2011-09-29T19:21:00.000+02:00

CROATIA! Visiting Croatia during the peak season was a bit of a holidaying culture shock for us. Much of the coast line and towns were littered with beach bars, souvenir shops and there were MANY leathery sun bakers engulfing the pebbled shore lines. It was clear that sunny Croatia relies heavily on tourism. Despite this it was a beautiful country. The people were warm and friendly, the food was great and the weather was mostly sunny. 

These photographs show off how wonderfully beautiful and interesting the Croatian islands can be. This particular beach is the Zlatni Rat Beach, which is on the southern side of the island Brac. 

OUTFIT
TOP
I made this top from the Port Elizabeth pattern. I wanted to add a little colour to it, so I inserted the magenta and orange to the basic pattern.I love the shape of this top and have used it previously in pink (blogged here). I am a little crazy about colour at the moment and are consequently on the look out for bright coloured fabrics! (I apologise for the wrinkled clothing..that's what travelling does:)

SHORTS
I wanted to make some shorts to match the top, so I utilised one of my drafted shorts patterns...but the waist sits rather strangely and as a result the shorts look frumpy. I will have to revisit this pattern and make some alterations. I added some coral coloured pockets. I like the concept of these pockets but they contribute to the wide hip frumpy look.

More Croatia posts to come!

Photography: Michael Dooney

FOUND!

2011-09-27T04:42:00.000+02:00

After a long internet search for my perfect black double strap heel, I found one at Tony Bianco.
BUT.... it is sold out in my size.
Fml.
After some further research, I discovered that this shoe was first available in May! No wonder it is sold out.

The search continues.....

My Paris memento

2011-09-24T09:32:00.000+02:00

(Hair cuff: H&M. Top: Agent 99. Jeans: Shakuhachi <------ worn a long time ago on Fickle Sense here! Scarf: Oroton. Shoes: Topshop <---- previously worn here. Sunglasses: River Island.)

This hair cuff was my only purchase from Paris. I was with a couple of girls from my Contiki tour and we wondered into the H&M on the Champs Elysées in an attempt to find something affordable from the iconic street. We only had minutes until we had to be back at the hotel before the bus left the city. Anybody that has been on a Contiki tour knows how strict the time limitations are. We RAN through the store, shoving our feet into ballet flats, frantically wrapping scarves around our necks and ramming rings onto our fingers in an attempt to find a memento. Feeling somewhat defeated, I almost left with nothing.... until I spotted this cuff. The size of this cuff meant that it could serve only one purpose - to sit atop my head :)

Kaye xx

How to make a circle skirt: full, 3/4, 1/2, 1/4

2011-09-21T02:03:00.000+02:00

I am excited to have finally finished my 'how to make a circle skirt' tutorial! YAY! Follow the link below to a downloadable PDF, otherwise just follow the instructions in the images below. Feedback or comments are always welcome, let us know if you try it out!

Full, 3/4, 1/2, 1/4 Circle Skirt Tutorial PDF

Fickle Sense Circle Skirts by Mahaila, Fickle Sense is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivs 3.0 Unported License

2011-09-17T08:32:00.000+02:00

On this weekend we travelled out to Potsdam to the Schloss Glienicke. It is certainly a sweet, modest little palace. This ultimately sets it apart from many of the other palaces in the Berlin-Brandenburg area. We found plenty of locations for photos and spent a pleasant morning wandering through the gardens.

The pattern for the top was created by the Burdastyle member Seagle. She named the pattern Port Elisabeth and I just love the shape of it. I shortened the hem of the top and added this detail at the front. The pink/gold fabric was purchased at the markets with the vision of utilising it for the Port Elisabeth pattern. 

Have you ever had a problem with finding the perfect fabric for the outfit that you have in mind? Well this is a constant problem for me. Finding fabric in Germany is quite difficult....and yes, I am aware that in Aus we have a good selection, so my high expectations have hindered my ability to select material. For this outfit I couldn't shake the thought of baby blue. So after visiting numerous markets I was told by a friend to visit Berger Stoffe. This was a great recommendation. I found the right fabric...plus a little more:) So I drafted this high waisted skirt pattern and made this baby blue skirt with a striped detail at the hem. I think that it turned out quite well

Photography: Michael Dooney 

Back in Australia

2011-09-11T07:51:00.000+02:00

(Parker: Borrowed from mum. Shirt: Zara. Playsuit: Ted Baker. Shoes: Acne. Necklaces: Etsy. Rings: Borrowed from mum.)

I didn't actually mean for this post to look so "Aussie Outback"..... me with my flanny out in the bush. I have no idea if our overseas readers are familiar with the term 'flanny', so I did a little Urban Dictionary search:

"Flanny is slang for a button-up, long sleeve flannelette shirt. The use of this term is common in Australia."

This flanny is my very first purchase from a Zara store! Exciting stuff. I felt it was reminiscent of the Isabel Marant version - love that collection! I had been eyeing mum's parker for some time, and once this shirt was in my possession, I knew that the two had to be married. I rummaged through mum's wardrobe looking for her parker and called out "MUUUUUUM! Where's that parker thingy that you wear to work?" After mum finally realised what I was talking about, she asked, "Why do you want my raincoat?" After mum explained that she had bought it from the wet weather section in Myer, I grumbled, "I just want it." I threw the parker and flanny on over my trusty playsuit and ran out the door to meet my friends for cocktails.

When my friends complimented my 'parker', I inappropriately announced, "Thanks, it's my mum's raincoat!" I really just need to learn to say a simple "Thankyou."

Kaye xx

two strap

2011-09-07T21:08:00.000+02:00

Forgive me.

I know these Alexander Wang shoes have been splashed all over the blog-o-sphere. However I am not about to confess my undying love for this shoe and I am not about to announce to the world that my life is not worth living until it is in my possession. SoI feel that this post should not be accused of committing the crime of blogging-the-same-bloody-Wang-shoe-over-and-over-again. You know what I'm talking about. Anyway, lets get to the point....

I have been looking for the perfect two-strap black heel for ages now. When I first saw this shoe, my heart pounded a little faster. Then I saw the price..... then I decided that I don't like the little cape thing on the back.... then I decided that I had NOT found my perfect two-strap black heel. And yes I knooooow the cape is detachable. Don't care, this is not my perfect shoe.

So alas the hunt continues. If any of our darling readers know of a perfect heel with two thin black straps, please let me know. I will give you ~~money~~ ~~my left kidney~~ a hug :)

Kaye xx

Berlin - mahaila, kaye and michael have a picnic in the park!

2011-09-04T17:14:00.001+02:00

OUTFITS

Kaye: Skirt: made by mahaila (previously worn by mahaila here). Top: Agent 99. Necklaces: Etsy. Shoes: K Mart. Bag: Gift from mum.

Mahaila: Playsuit: Made by mahaila (previously worn here)

Wow, its been a while since I've posted.... 6 weeks actually. Its good to be back :)

Some of you may know that my absence has been due to travel. I've been on a whirlwind trip through Europe and it was amazing. Of course my first stop was Berlin to see my big sister and fellow blogger, mahaila. Berlin is truly an amazing city - so full of life. Mahaila and Michael had a lot to show me and I loved learning about the city that my sister had been living in for the past year or so. We didn't have much time to take photos for the blog, but we have a few posts in store for you guys..... :)

One of my favourite Berlin experiences was finally going to the markets that mahaila had been telling me about (and you, our readers!) These photos were taken at the Turkish markets where we bought fresh produce for our picnic we had planned for the afternoon. I swapped my traditional Aussie barbecue at the beach for a disposable grill at the local park.... weird. But apparently that's how the Berliners roll, so it was good to experience such a contrast.

Another thing I loved about my Berlin experience?? Raiding mahaila's wardrobe!! After admiring her creations from across the globe, I was finally free to mix and match her hand made goodies with the very limited number of pieces from my suitcase. This skirt was one of the first items I got my hands on..... arrrgh, how I wished I had my shoe collection to play with!!

Kaye xx

playsuit/romper.....CUT mag #5

2011-08-25T10:18:00.000+02:00

Do you ever get the feeling that you are speaking another language? .... OK yes I am currently residing in a foreign land and I literally speak (well try to) a foreign language daily. I am referring more to those moments during a conversation amongst friends when you realise that nobody has ANY idea what you are womping on about. I bring this fact up during this post as I experienced this whilst attempting to explain what this outfit actually was. 

The incident went a little like this:  

I had just finished helping a friend paint her house and she had realised that some paint had made it's way through my protective painting shirt and onto my outfit and my friend said......

"oh look there is a little paint on your...... red ......um.... top short thingo". 

I then responded with an explanation, "well actually it is a romper or you could also call it a playsuit. It's not actually a jumpsuit because......" 

The stares of confusion convinced me to change the topic...quickly. 

Has this ever happened to you? When you are realise that you have a distinct group of friends/family who certainly do not share an interest in fashion/sewing?

I made this playsuit/romper from the pattern in the German sewing mag CUT #5. I was very excited when I saw this playsuit pattern in this edition and couldn't wait to have a go. I had this fabric in my stash and I think it worked really well. The antique buttons were purchased at the local markets. 

On a side note. As an Australian, I find it interesting that the Germans like to transport fake beaches into their cities. As you can see from the photos we stumbled across a volleyball beach where people were enjoying the sun with their family and friends. I suppose that we are so lucky in Aus that we take our beautiful coastline and great weather for granted. Living in another country can sometimes make you appreciate what you have back at home:)  

Photos: Michael Dooney 

Contoured bodice with more circles

2011-08-18T20:13:00.001+02:00

The Germans are certainly not shy when it comes to supporting their local community. It is often that you will find yourself stumbling across a protest in one form or another.  

A while back we attended the community organised protest which supported the preservation of the very popular Berlin street, Kastanienallee. The council is pushing to widen the street which means all of the chestnut trees will disappear and in turn lose some of the character of the area. The protest consisted of; street side stalls, live music, performances, eating and drinking, children drawing with chalk on the roads and people enjoying the general 'buzz' of the event. And to add to all of the excitement Peaches was playing for free! Unfortunately we couldn't attend the Peaches performance.... still regretting that! We took the last few shots in our fav Berlin park Friedrichshain Volkspark.

THE DRESS:  

I made this little black dress using the contoured bodice technique. There are still a few adjustments that I need to make with my pattern (e.g. further decrease above the bust) but I am glad I got this one dress completed. I have had contouring on my 'to do' list for a while and have a few more dresses in mind. The skirt is a half circle skirt.... yes again with the circle skirts. I am obsessed! .. oh and stay tuned for my circle skirt tutorials (I assure you I will complete this soon... just need a few more hours in my day:) )

THE BLOUSE: 

I purchased this blouse from a second hand store in the DDR section. I love finding DDR treasures. Learning about Berlin's history makes second hand shopping all the more exciting!  

Photography: Michael Dooney

Circle skirts are on my mind

2011-08-06T21:47:00.001+02:00

First of all I must apologise for our poor posting performance for the last week. Kaye has made her way from wintery Perth to the 'summery' (though the rain and lack of sun would suggest otherwise) streets of Berlin! YAY! We are in the same country again! We have spent the last week dancing, drinking, eating, window shopping, walking, cycling, photographing, grilling, sight seeing and boating with very little sleep! Kaye and I will be posting some of our German adventures soon.

CIRCLE SKIRT and blouse
Lately I have been experimenting with the different circumferences and fabric grain lines of circle skirts. It all began a few years ago when my grandmother told my the full circle skirt formula. This particular skirt that I am sporting in these pictures is a half circle skirt. I will be sharing my adventures in a number of tutorials... so watch this space! The blouse is actually from the DDR times and I found it in a second hand store. I like the silhouette of the blouse, particularly the sleeves.

Snow?

The white fluff that you can see in these photos is actually from a particular type of tree in Germany. It is quite magical when the seeds fall from the trees, it is reminiscent of snow. You can hear all of the kids on the streets saying 'guck mal mama, schnee!' Though it can get a bit annoying when you breath them in... not too pleasant.

Photography: Michael Dooney

Burdatyle high waisted shorts + art

2011-07-29T21:57:00.000+02:00

Photography Michael Dooney

The shorts
I made these high waisted shorts from the Burdastyle Easy magazine. My poor German language skills ensured that there were a few mishaps along the way. After tracing and cutting the pattern pieces and fabric I pinned the shorts together to check the fit. I had great difficulty trying to squeeze into the shorts and decided to add lace panels to the sides of the shorts. Amazingly the panels solved the sizing problem and I later found out from my German sewing friends that these mags don't include the seam allowance. Once again I have learnt 2 lessons the hard way. Always add your seam allowance for the Burdastyle magazine patterns and for goodness sake work on your German language skills mahaila!

The earrings 

If you look closely you can see my Pacman earrings. My friend E bought them for my birthday. I love them, they're so cute!

Berlin + Art 

On this particular 'Burdastyle striped shorts wearing weekend' we visited some galleries for the Gallery weekend - Berlin. I seem to have developed a love/hate relationship with the art world. I find myself incredibly inspired one minute and then completely uninspired the next. One piece which triumphed head and shoulders above the rest was the interactive installation by Tim Noble and Sue Webster named Turning the seventh corner. I felt anxious as I followed the dark passage around several dimly lit corners. This anxious feeling soon shifted to intrigue as we turned the seventh corner and found the light and shadow sculpture. I found this such an interesting piece as it was so simple yet complex at the same time. Love it!

Tim Noble and Sue Webster - Turning the seventh corner.

Berlin Fashion Week 2011: Fashion Blogger Cafe

2011-07-26T22:59:00.000+02:00

Christoph: The Glass Punk! and SKIR

It might be a bit late for a Berlin Fashion Week round up, but since this post isn't exclusively referring to the event, I think it should be fine. I am also filling in for Mahaila on this post, she will have updates soon from our recent trip through Croatia. 

When Fashion Week makes its glamorous and alluring presence known on any city landscape, the advertising is as much about promoting the event as it is heightening its exclusivity. As many of you I am sure would have quickly learnt, Fashion Week is largely for the fashion industry. Although you see the posters in the street, and read about it in various magazines, this is as close as most regular people get. 

For the second time at Berlin Fashion Week and the first time in the Summer instalment; the Fashion Bloggers Cafe was organised to recognise the influence of the fashion enthusiasts, aspiring designers, models and stylists who are making their voice heard online.

Conveniently at time the Fashion Week was taking place, I was attending a workshop to get out of my photographic comfort zone. The Fashion Blogger event was a great opportunity to meet some of the other active bloggers here in Berlin.

Thanks to everyone who took the time for a portrait. Included under each image is a link to their blog, I encourage everyone to check out their writing. The people from Style Ranking were also snapping the fashion bloggers as they entered the event. Some how I also made it on to their page.

Cindy: IWOASIS and Anna: Bildhübsch

Christine: Der alltägliche Wahnsinn and 9flats

Mr Soul (left): Diaries of Undecided Soul

Julia

Links:

Christoph: The Glass Punk! and SKIR

Cindy: IWOASIS 

Anna: Bildhübsch 

Christine: Der alltägliche Wahnsinn and 9flats

Mr Soul: Diaries of Undecided Soul 

Images and Text: Michael Dooney

Getting ready for Europe

2011-07-24T15:24:00.000+02:00

(Tee: Nasty Gal. Jacket: Asos. Shoes: Jeffrey Campbell. Jeans: Supre)

Pssssst! Did you guess the answer to the riddle from my earlier post?

Q: What do you call a doctor who is always late?

A: Jeffrey campbell TARDY DOCS .... I think that will be the last time I try to make a riddle on the blog :)

Robert and I had a few errands to run over the weekend. To get us started, we had brunch at The Attic in Fremantle. I loooove the atmosphere of this place and they have good quality food (I hear the word "organic" thrown around a lot whenever I stop by). After changing my Aussie dollars to euros and pounds (!!), buying mini toiletries (!!!) and purchasing different power adapters (!!!!), I started getting a wee bit excited to see mahaila in Berlin. As I wandered through Fremantle in my red JC platform docs, people stared at my feet.... all I could think was "I wonder if people in Berlin are going to shamelessly stare at my footwear as much as people in Perth?" I guess I will just have to wait and see (!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!)

Kaye xx

pretending

2011-07-21T10:21:00.000+02:00

(Dress: Gordon Smith. Blazer: Topshop. Crop knit: Fremont. Shoes: Acne. Sunglasses: Came free with a six pack of Strongbow)

I am not normally one for clothing/accessories that convert. I don't like the idea that something can be worn a number of different ways - it means that the item in question is always pretending to be something it's not. (If you have been following fickle sense for a little while now, you may know that I give my clothes personalities and make up little stories about them in my head). But, I have been making some exceptions to this "rule of fraud" as I like to call it (obvs I just made that up then....). It started with the handbag/backpack, and now I love this crop knit. By day, its a jumper, by night... it's a scarf! Thats right, I wrap it around my neck and nobody knows the difference!

Kaye xx

mother knows best

2011-07-16T09:22:00.000+02:00

(Blouse: Winter Kate. Shoes: Steve Madden. Jeans: Supre DIY ripped <--- previously worn here. Bag: Lily Rose <--- worn here)

I wore this when I went to Made on the Left with Robert last weekend. Mum bought me this bag for me to use when I visit Mahaila in Germany (wooooooo!! 12 days until I leave Australia!). Depending on the way you attach the straps, it can be a handbag or a backpack! Trust mum to make sure I have something practical and useful for my trip. The great thing about this one is that it looks more like a handbag than a backpack... and the really surprising part? I LOVE that it's chocolate brown. I definitely wouldn't have imagined that this colour would fit into my wardrobe. Somehow, it does. Alas, mothers always know best.

Kaye xx

INTERVIEW: Elisabetta from Renewfabrics

2011-07-14T07:32:00.002+02:00

As a sewing enthusiast I often peer over to my ever growing mound of fabric scraps and think “what will I ever do with those tiny pieces of fabric?” Rest assured, there is an answer! Renewfabrics them. Renewfabrics is a small business founded by Elisabetta, an inspirational sewer/crafter from Italy who currently resides in Berlin. Elisabetta utilises already existing materials (including those unwanted scraps) to create loveable handmade brooches and bags. Each piece of recycled fabric that enters the Renewfabrics studio is manipulated, transformed and revitalised and given a new lease of life.

Having previously studied International Relations and Human Rights, Elisabetta is concious of the the social and environmental impact of fashion; this is reflected in the Renewfabrics methodology. An aspect of Elisabetta which I found refreshing was her love of textile art and her desire to incorporate already found objects into her work. She designs each piece while considering the history and context of the raw materials.

I sat down with Elisabetta to chat about renewfabrics; influences; the handmade movement and life in general.

Why Berlin???

The quality of life is good...it is accessible and there is the creative scene. You can pretty much do what ever you want.

Familial influences???

My grandma was a seamstress.... I have always been around fabrics. My mum knits really well, my uncle paints and we have musicians in the family so I guess it's a natural thing for some people. It is kind of weird to say that it is a natural thing and I guess that you can be brought to it by life, but it helps to be encouraged.

What made you start to sew???

I started to sew myself from fixing jeans. I got interested in the process of sewing things and then I started to research textiles and history and all the social aspects and from that I learnt to sew.

Why do you continue to sew???

I really like it and I like to build things and to make my own clothing.... I have the impression that it is our responsibility to keep on doing it otherwise the skills will get lost. It is important that I learn to do things with my hands and it also helps to develop other skills.

What is your view on recycling and sewing???

When you sew you have all of these small things that stay there; when I started to sew I thought that it was a pity that they get lost and thrown away. I thought, well I have to think of a way to reuse them. I am not saying that I am developing new ways, I am rediscovering normal things from society.

One thing that I have used is eco felt which is made from recycled bottles but that is really an exception. Most of my things are there already. My fabrics come from shops that have fabric with defects. I really try not to use new stuff because even though it is always positive to use these fabrics that come from recycled bottles or eco resources, it is better to try and source things locally as well as pieces that already exist. I think that people are kind of suspicious when you come with bio cotton or for example the big bamboo problem. It is really hard to source it even in a way that is sustainable. Of course in the long run we need to find solutions that are actually sustainable. That is the big thing for the fashion industry.

Where do you find inspiration???

Books are a big inspiration for me, especially the history of textiles and crafts. I am really influenced by books that incorporate found objects and textile art. This has been really important for my sewing and designing......They take into account the history of the piece and then build upon it. I guess to some extent this is the idea behind the small pieces that people send me. A lot of inspiration also comes from my photos.. it starts from stuff that I can see around me.

Being a sewer/Crafter in Germany???

In Germany it is not that easy, I get the impression that unless you are a taught designer or you have gone to school you're a hobbiest so there is not too much respect. It's not that well established here, where as in the US I feel that it is more accepted. You can learn by yourself and it's normal that you pick up a skill. Here it seems more that the mum knits or sews or crochets, it's kind of a different culturally.

What are your thoughts on fast fashion???

It has a negative impact on what we think things should cost. We have been accustom to things being so cheap that we don't believe that the real price should be something else. But it is hard to educate consumers that you need to have a fair wage and you need to pay for your expenses.... we don't take into account what makes it possible for things to be so cheap. How are things are produced and under what conditions? We should ask ourselves what is the impact.

Having a business???

I had one specific idea of how I thought the business should be. And now things are actually evolving. It is really important to stay open and you need to adjust as things progress....The big thing for me was selling at the markets and seeing how people reacted.

What do you need to be a sewer, what are the positives and how should someone start???

You need patience, you will make plenty of mistakes. It is also good because it allows you to really create your own things and knowing that you can put your personality into a skirt. It is the satisfaction that you have, I think that that pays off all of the frustration.

It can be fun to learn with other people and it can be a good way to socialise and communicate and do it in a group. There are bars that you can go and sewing cafes I think that is a great way to start instead of being at home reading a book and cursing at the sewing machine. Maybe start with a friend and that can open up other things too, other ways of community building. It's easier to start with a place that has fabrics that you can already try. You can also go and take a course, refashioning, sewing, embroidery. That is a really good thing. Etsy has brought a lot that. Lets hope that is not a fashion moment. Lets hope it stays.

You can read more about Elisabetta on her renewfabrics website. Elisabetta sells her goods at the small design markets (this Sunday she is at the Handmade-market) as well as some flohmarkets (e.g. Neukoelln markets). You can also find her handmade items for sale on Dawanda

Photography: Michael Dooney

Refashioning shorts to a skirt

2011-07-13T11:15:00.000+02:00

I found this hideous pair of shorts at Humana for 3 euros the other week and decided to transform them into a tulip shaped skirt. I made a tutorial for these beauties which I submitted to a refashion e-book. So hopefully it will be available soon.

seeing red

2011-07-10T14:14:00.000+02:00

(Jeans: Topshop via eBay. Shoes: Asos. Top: Asos. Jacket: Asos.)

Looking at the outfit references above, I should really widen my shopping horizons. Yes I am a fan of Asos and Topshop. I find that if I shop retail, I end up buying a heap of shit that I don't wear. Whereas if a product is online, I mull over it for days deciding if I want to buy it. These days, I usually decide that I don't ~~want~~ need the product in question. My wardrobe (and my wallet) thanks me for this system.

Now, about the red jeans. I wasn't a huge fan of the coloured skinny jean trend at first.... it reminded me of when I was in high school and the pages of Cosmopolitan were ridden with images of celebrities wearing bright, candy coloured bottoms.... yuk. However, I couldn't resist the combination of bright red and nude. I am stoked with how easily these jeans brighten up a dull winter's day.

Kaye xx

Let's play a game......

2011-07-07T17:11:00.000+02:00

I do love a good flatform.
The question is, are these too crazy?
I think not. Hit up the amaaaazement here!

I may not have the courage to fork out $171 aud for these killers, but I did get a little treat for myself from the ol' Nasty Gal. Let's play a game! It's a riddle. You would probably only be able to answer this if you are as much of a blogosphere addict as I am.......

What do you call a doctor who is always late?

Um, and who is red...... OK, I'm not very good at riddles. Here is another clue:

Can you guess what it is????

Kaye xx

out in the german forest with zeiss

2011-07-05T08:55:00.000+02:00

Zeiss folding camera

Lately I have been trying to experiment more with textile design and consequently ended up with some dye to mess around with. After revisiting my tie dying days at primary school I decided that perhaps I am not the tie dying type. Next I decided to spray the dye onto the fabric. SUCCESS! Spraying the dye on to chiffon resulted in some interesting effects. The dye ran a little and made some star like shapes. I draped the material on my dress making doll and ended up with this strange little top. This is only the beginning of my dyeing adventures. So watch this space as I will be posting some tutorials!

And yes, these are photos of me frolicking amongst the trees in the German country side. Even though Berlin is a fairly green city, I do miss the greenery and peacefulness of rural areas (hence the photos of me running around). These last 4 images were taken with Michael's folding camera. He picked up this little treasure at the Vienna markets last year. I like the unpredictability and vintage feeling of the camera. It's always a surprise when we have the images developed.

Photography: Michael Dooney