Couture

Couture fashion has many aspects.  Firstly, the meaning of couture is: “the design and manufacture of fashionable clothes to a client’s specific requirements and measurements.” (Dictionary quote)

The piece Gabriela Hearst designed for Dr. Jill Biden’s evening ensemble on Inauguration Evening was couture fashion at it’s finest.  I recently ran into a post that perfectly described the ensemble and the meaning behind it.  Yes, there is always a story line about why a designer designs what they design.  There is a method to the madness.

Storyline

The recent Inauguration was a testment to the democracy of our country.  I will focus on one aspect, the clothes, although I realize there is much more that that.  The evening ensemble that Dr. Jill Biden wore has deeper meaning than just an article of clothing.

This message was copied from the instagram account of Gabriela Hearst which gives you the up close and personal reasons for the creation.  Moreover, storylines are how designers get the inspiration for what they create.

“The message of Unity is the main inspiration for the creation of the Ensemble. Unity makes strength and it is needed for the road ahead. The blooming symbol to represent this message are the federal flowers from every state and territory of the United States of America. The flowers are embroidered into the cashmere coat on the hem line in an pattern that rises organically on the side’s seams. On the dress, the embroidery is placed on the silk organza neckline and arms. The body of the dress is constructed in silk wool cady.

The Delaware flower is positioned at the heart level of The First Lady, from there, all the other flowers branch out.
The pieces were made entirely in New York City. The Embroidery and Coat were crafted in the garment district and the dress was assembled at the inhouse studio. Each flower took approximately two-four hours to embroider. Careful placements and color selections were carefully studied for weeks. Inside of the coat, representing the lifelong calling and service of Dr. Biden as an educator is a hand embroidery on the lining with a quote from Founding Father Benjamin Franklin
“Tell me and I forget. Teach me and I remember. Involve me and I learn.”
The materials used were existing available fabrics to minimize the impact on the environment #gabrielahearst Read and view the full post on instagram as there are many photos of the process. Be sure to scroll through the photos, it’s an education in itself!

American Designers

Congratulations to all of the American Designers (of which there are many) that had the honor of dressing the dignitaries.  American fashion as well as sustainable newly discovered brands and fabrics that minimize the impact on the environment will be forefront in the ongoing community of American designers.  Exciting times, the fashion industry has suffered a great loss because of the pandemic and hopefully with this new found awareness will have a positive impact on the future of American design.

In my work I achieve some of the same ways of thinking by sketching, researching and attention to details.  If you have a special event coming up in the future(yes even next fall matters-plan ahead), get on our list here to keep up with how we create unique clothes for magical events. When you sign up you’ll receive a free download about how to choose clothes for your already full closet!

That’s me in my ‘Power’ Jacket adjusting a silk organza jacket that can go to the opera, a wedding or a backyard celebration. One piece, many uses.