Gown of a Feather...

Using feathers as embellishments has been a relentless trend that dates back centuries. Unlike leather and fur, feathers are used as either overwhelmingly flamboyant or stylishly subtle touches of opulence, without the nude campaigns. I can honestly say that I have never been a fan of feather - much too tacky in my opinion. Though I love the gorgeous shape and colour palette of the ever famous peacock feather, I have always considered feathers as a sure way to make anything look cheap. However, lately my opinion has been constantly challenged by designers like Carolina Herrera and Etsy shop designer, Erin of Coco Boudoir. But the ultimate arm twister is Monique Lhuillier with this positively divine twist on a wedding gown. This ivory coloured, feathered frock is simply stunning in every way possible. Might I add, it is in no way tacky. It takes nothing short of a genious crazy to sculpt this gown. The simple A-line structure exudes subtle oppulence in the best way. I was completely blown away when I first saw the picture of the dress. I love how the feathers fan at the bust to create a soft neckline. The added detail of the embellished belly band and simple veil was just enough to polish off this unexpectedly, elegant look. I'm officially won over.

Time to Get to Work

I got paper samples in a few days ago and I'm finally going to have some time, to scan stuff in and play around with the papers. I have to come up with five designs to actually create and post on my e-commerce page on Etsy.com by the year's end. Not much time left to meet this deadline, but I'm sure as hell going to try to.
The papers I got are all handmade and quite different from the mass produced stuff. I really took a liking to handmade papers a couple of months ago, when I began my research for my project. The low-impact method used in creating these papers, give each sheet its own unique characteristics, which I hope can lend itself to my invitation designs. For now, most of my designs are going to be based on layering/mixing these papers rather than graphic work, which I won't get into until maybe late Spring or early Summer.
Most of my colour palettes and use of patterns are derived from fashion trends of 2009 runway shows. Inspiration driven by wild prints, vibrant colours and play on shapes, fashion designers have opened up a pandora's box filled with infinite possibilities. I think my biggest task would be editing my samples and keeping them clean and classy, while on the edge of trendy creativity. I'll be harassing a bunch of my friends to help with this.
I'm no expert. I'm no graphic designer either. I just want to try to create something a little different. I want to be able to give these papers a modern flair. There is so much more to handmade papers than just the floral, deckle edged looks, and I think I can portray that. I know I can.