Tessuti Awards 2010

About my Linen and Lace

• Pattern Used: A commercial pattern
• Fabrics Used: Hex Wheels Ivory Embroidery lace and Sandstone Zin linen
• Time To Create: 10 - 12 hours in broken sessions
• Dress Influenced By: Inspired by the design brief, "Linen and Lace - everything old is new again", I looked to Vivienne Westwood and her appropriations of 18th Century Men's clothing. I wanted to add an edge to soft silhouettes of the lace but putting a contrasting black line that references the punk juxtapositions in Westwoods garments. The buttons, collected from the Tessuti collection are an embellishment that adds a touch of difference,femininity and edge.
• Additional Information: "Westwood recalled: 'I didn't know what to do ... Malcolm said "look at history"'" as retrieved from http://nga.gov.au/westwood/Wilessay.cfm The bodice of my design refers to 18th Century Men's clothing, making what was old, new again. The fresh look of the linen and lace adds a contemporary feel to the retro style dress that is a fresh and bold look. No matter what happens - I have loved making this dress and am really proud of my sewing efforts. This is only the 6th dress I have ever sewn and think that my craftsmanship has improved by completing this design brief.

About Me

• Name: Jessica Melkman
• State: NSW
• Sewing Since: 2010
• My Experience: Have taught myself how to sew because I love creating new fabric combinations and want to be bold and unique.
• My Sewing Goals: Learn how to sew more technically
• Additional Information: art.design.teaching. I also love creating my own fabrics! Check mine out www.copyandpaint.com