Each season, I am exposed to the newest technology of fabrics. In order to keep fashion fresh and interesting, the textiles need to be innovative. The latest technologies are 3D, pile and tactile fabrics.

3D fabrics are definitely one of my favorites, and whenever I can’t find them, I create them. This makes my fashion designs more distinct and one of a kind. One print may be the underlayer of the overlay print, which creates a 3D effect when the fabric moves. It can be hard to notice unless you see it in real life.

Laser-cut fabrics are also becoming mainstay in the industry, for everything from bridal gowns to outerwear. I was thrilled to run across an interesting pattern that was laser cut on tulle fabric. Stay tuned for the final result! I have a roll of it now in my studio.

Shredding fabrics and using a quilting technique can create an interesting design. When applied to a garment, it becomes intriguing to the fashion-conscious woman.

I also get inspired by the environment and what is happening culturally. When I was walking the streets of New York on my annual trip this summer, this window display resonated with me. The word “truth” has really become a mainstay in our political climate today. I know deep inside that I was creating graffiti on my clothes last November using the word TRUTH. Although we all try to be the first to do something, it’s impossible! 

These are just a small sampling of the fabric I choose to work with. They are always changing, so I can’t get too attached to one fabric because of this. This holiday season in 2018, be on the lookout for more texture, dimension, and a contrast in drape and fluidity in fashion designs. Thank you for following my story, and be sure to check out my Instagram feed for my latest updates and inspirations!

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Photos of the Sequins, Lace, Mesh & Ponte Fabrics

Here is the sequined fabric with a light underlay that I tested to see if I was happy with the contrast.

I began draping the fabrics to see how they would look as a collection.  You will see how this morphed into something else as time goes on.  This was just the beginning.  The draping process is just the start of any collection.  To see a gown from start to finish visit my dressmaking page.

Choosing the design to compliment the sequins.

The sequins spoke to me in many different forms.  I treated it like a knit so it would mold close to the body.  I draped most of the shapes, as this fabric had a mind of its own.  Once I got the technique down I was off and running.  I felt like I could shape this fabric into anything I wanted.  For the Town & Country Collection I visualized women wearing the sequins with jeans and boots as well as out to a gala.  All one needs to do is change up the pieces.

Imagine this tunic without the lace leggings, a perfect party dress.  Wear the tunic with jeans and boots, out in the country, or if you live near me, up in the mountains.  So versatile.

Ponte fabric adds a new dimension to the collection.

Ponte fabric is another new fabric for Brooks Ltd.  It is easy to wear, comfortable and has no season.

Here is my version of a LBD(little black dress).  Mine is navy blue!

Take this LND (little navy dress) and mix it up with navy leggings and you have a whole new look.

In the city, in the mountains.

This collection has just begun.  I will write more about the actual runway show in my next blog. See more samples like this on my About Town Lifestyle Clothing page!

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