Vivian Von Dimples

Corset Toile

2011-10-09T02:38:00.000-07:00

Here is a quick snap shot of my recent corset toile for the burlesque costumes I am making. It's going to be great!

Ahoy, there!

2011-09-23T06:04:00.000-07:00

I was very lucky on my last show at WAAPA to be able to make this adorable sailor top.

The gold buttons have little anchors on them. So cute! I think I'll make myself one.

Cutest Shoes I've Ever Owned

2011-07-25T20:35:00.001-07:00

Today I glued fluffy things to the toes of the shoes I got while I was in New York. What a great way to spend a morning. <3

PQ11

2011-07-11T15:05:00.000-07:00

“Held once every four years in Prague, Czech Republic, the Prague Quadrennial of Performance Design and Space is a the world´s largest performance design event – a presentation of contemporary work in a variety of performance design disciplines and genres including costume, stage, lighting, sound design, and theatre architecture for dance, opera, drama, site-specific, multi-media performances, and performance art.”

The costume and design classes of WAAPA’s graduating class entered Street Stories as apart of Scenofest. It was called “Welcome to Land” and each team made a costume and performance around that theme. Ours was based on Australian Agriculture and heavily influence by the illustrations by Shaun Tan.

We called him G.U.S. He was a machine that "planted" felted seads.

I did a bit of internet snooping and found some pictures of the other groups taken that day.

I also found a video clip!

It was alot of fun, thanks for having us Prague!

Crazy For You

2011-07-11T14:09:00.000-07:00

The holidays are almost over and I’ve been away first to Prague for the PQ11 and then to New York for my secondment. I’m still in Ithaca at the moment and gosh it’s beautiful. I’ve bought some wonderful vintage but I’ll tell you all about that when I get home.

The show I was last working on for uni was Crazy For You and I got to make one of the finale show girls. It was a lot of beading but it was all worth it.

Here is a shot of the back pack after I just finished (sans the covering of the straps).

And my full show girl, isn't she a babe!

All of the show girls together. It's a huge moment.

I can’t wait to fill you in with all the amazing fun things I’ve been doing since then. Lot’s of love,

Sassy Song Bird

2011-05-15T00:47:00.000-07:00

Over the last couple of months I’ve be leisurely pottering away on a costume for a wonderful new friend of mine Miss Sassy Catch. She’s an amazing singer down here in Perth.

She wanted a costume with a bit of a Gibson girl feel basted on a dress Immodesty Blaize wore in a photo shoot recently. I drew up a design got the okay by Sass and started work. Two months later (I’ve been taking it slow :P) here’s where I’m up to. I’m almost done got a couple of things to fix and finish after our last fitting but not a great deal.

The under structure with all the boning and support.

With the gingham top layer.

It's cute little bolero.

And the Sass herself in it for a fitting with removable skirt extension.

And a little garter to top it all off.

Keep your peeper pealed for photos of it’s debut!

Mod vs Rocker

2011-05-08T09:29:00.000-07:00

Last week end a good friend of mine’s club had a ‘Mods Vs Rockers’ night. I didn’t really have anything in theme so I winged it in one of my favourite dresses and a black wig that I’ve taken quite a shine too. I also wore a hat pin for the first time! I will never wear another hat without one. It kept my hat in place all night!

It was one of the best nights I’ve had out in a very long time. It was great to use a little of both of the only two dances I know; the twist and a little Charleston (I’m not very good at either). I hope they do another soon!

Give Away Winner(s)

2011-04-25T07:56:00.000-07:00

Gosh, it’s been so long since I cast my eye on this little blog. So busy, so busy!

On to business! The winner of my giveaway is…

ALL OF YOU!
To the four amazing ladies that gave a moment to vote for me you each get a hat. :D
Miss Emmi, Andi B. Goode, La Dama and C. You are all gems!

Please send me your address to zombiedimplesAThotmailDOTcom and I’ll pop them in the post asap!

The Art of Shaping Competition and a Bribe

2011-03-12T22:14:00.000-08:00

This week I entered a competition for a wonderful shaping linger brand Triumph and I would love if you could take a few moments to vote for me. I’ve made it into the top 10 of my body type but I need your help to make it to the top.

All you need to do is follow the link, then click ‘Vote For Me’ and lastly verify your email address buy clicking a link that they will email out to you (it can sneak into your junk sometimes).

If you do get a chance to vote, let me know with a comment on this post and you’ll go into the draw to win a Military hat in any colour you desire for a little thank you (and maybe a little bit of a bribe. :P )

Just let me know what colour you would like in the comment leting me know that you have voted and I'll draw a name out of a hat on Wednesday 13/04/11.

Wedding Belles

2011-03-06T02:43:00.000-08:00

So I mentioned a few post ago that I was given an amazing wedding dress and then something wonderful happened, I was given another! I was also super lucky to have a beautiful friend of mine, Bridget, come over to help me with some photos. We played dress up all afternoon!

The first I received was from a wonderful woman who told me on her wedding day in 1957, as she was getting out of the car at the church all she could here was the word “pink” being echoed around the crowd.

It was quite late in the day when we took these photos so the pink seems to be lost on the strapless underlayer.

She also told me that she chopped off the bottom of her dress to go dancing in it.

The second was given threw a friend so I never got to meet the bride but I got the matching bridesmaid dress. I plumb darn forgot to take some photos of it though.

I sure feel lucky to have been given suck amazing dresses and to have a wonderful friend to let me dress her up and take photos.

Ring Ring

2011-03-05T02:48:00.000-08:00

I made a very simple pencil skirt for the production that I'm working on at the moment.

Nothing amazing, but don't you think that little pleat is sexy?

Oh, AND! I got the most adorable phone from swap meet for $5.00! What a scream!

In other news; In other news; I bought my tickets for Prague and New York! I'll be leaving in mid June. I'm very excited but now I have to go into super saving mode again as all my money went on the tickets.

Fringe World

2011-02-25T21:27:00.000-08:00

The last month has been very busy. Lots of evens needing lots of costumes. The majority of them for the Fringe World out door entertainment. Last Friday I was a monkey in a cage with a large key on my back and clashing small cymbals and yesterday I was one half of a Siamese twin with my beautiful friend Tara.
For those who have been reading my blog for a while might remember I was once I Siamese twin before for a burlesque event but never got any photos. This costumes is the new and improved version with eye patches!

Here are some sneaky photos of Tara while she's chatting with a friend.

Siamese sister squabble.

Glitter eyes!

I'm not sure how many people released that we were conjoined twins (a few people called us wenches) but I had a swell time and I think Tara did too.

P.S.

Here's a photo of monkey me.

Best Hair Day Ever

2011-02-12T01:45:00.000-08:00

In 2009 I went to a camp for Roller Derby in Melbourne but while I was over there I got my hair done buy an amazing hair dresser with Wildilocks. Recently I bumped into a girl who mention that she saw my photo of their web site so I went threw and found them. I thought I would share.

It was the best hair day of my life.

Meant To Be

2011-02-01T01:26:00.001-08:00

I few days ago I moved from my dirty, hot and leaky make shift room into the house and the main bed room. I tell you, it was like we were meant to be together.

Everything has its little bit of space and the atmosphere is perfect. The only complaint is that at night it get’s very dark but threw the day the sun comes threw the window and lights it up.

I don't think I have told you about the wonderful Dresser my folks got me for chrissy. Isn't it just the bees knee?!

I just need some pink fluffy fabric to cover the chair with.

I do not have a hat problem.

This is half of my inbuilt wardrobe. HAFT! I'm so happy.

Now, I just need new bed set and I'm all set.

P.S.

I keep meaning to do a post on the amazing 1957 wedding dress I was given but I am waiting till I can give it a good steam and get photos of the previous owner wearing it. So keep tuned!

Frill me!

2011-01-14T02:40:00.000-08:00

Just a super quick post to show you the dress I made today and will wear out tonight. I drafted her myself but she is inspired by this one warn by Vixen Vintage. Gosh, I love that girl.

Got to run but I hope I'll get some photo of me in it tonight.\

Love,

Good bye, 2010.

2011-01-01T06:45:00.000-08:00

And what a fine year it has been! To celebrate here are some unseen photos from this year.

I can’t wait to spend another wonderful year blogging and following all my new friends on blogspot.

Miss Alternative Perth: Femme Ferox

2010-12-10T07:28:00.000-08:00

Tonight I went to the Miss Alternative Australia heat here in Perth. I had a great time, a wonderful friend of mine was preforming so Emma and I had to go to scream loudly for her.

Bouse: Op-shopped

Skirt: Op-shopped

Tights: Coles

Shoes: (not pictured) A store in Melboune but I keep forgeting the name.

Gloves: (not pictured) Op-shopped

Hat: Op-shopped

Emma Destruction

Dress: Op-shopped in London

(she go so meny comments on her dress)

Shoes: Zu

I guess all that screaming worked because she won! The winner, the lovely Femme Ferox.
She'll be travelling to Sydney to compete in the final round.

Tutu & A Midsummer Nights Dream

2010-12-06T03:20:00.001-08:00

This year the last Ballet of the year was A Midsummer Nights Dream and for it each second year made a Tutu in class time and a make in production time.

The above photo is of the tutu that I made (still needing to be hemmed at the time) that later became one of the Fairy Core featured in photo below.

The other costume I made was for Helena, seen above and on stage below.

The show was not only very pretty but fun too. Lot's of glitter and sequins.

OH, and before I forget:

THANK YOU!
I've now reached over 150 follows. It means so much to me that so many people like read my blog and enjoy seeing what I'm up to. You guys rock!

Lot's of love,

Rococo

2010-11-15T22:12:00.000-08:00

I have been a very busy bee this last week finishing on my 18th century dress for my Period Garments class that was due yesterday. Annnnnd here she is! She’s a 1770 Sack Back Gown.

This has been one of the hardest things I’ve had to do in my two years of WAAPA. I’m so proud of myself, I almost died of joy once I had sewn the last hook on.

Cécile Mimieux

2010-11-09T04:26:00.000-08:00

A little while ago the beautiful Cécile Mimieux did a photo shoot with Perths own very talented David Woolley and luck me, they used the costume I made!

I am just bubbling over with joy. What beautidul photos Cécile and David have made.

If you are in Perth or ever will be I urge you to check both of these wonderful people out. Put it on your to do list!

Roller Waitress

2010-10-13T08:30:00.000-07:00

This weekend will be my first solo event since V&V disbanded so I thought it time for a new uniform (it'll also double nicely for a lazy Halloween costume). I'll be selling some hats and trinkets at the 1st bout of Perth Roller Derby's second season.

I had a great time making this. I forget sometimes how much fun sewing can be when you have to do it everyday.

VV for Vivian Veil (my stage name. ;)

If any other Perth bloggers have bought a ticket come up and say "Hi".

Gentlemen Prefer Brains

2010-10-10T05:33:00.000-07:00

VOTE FOR ME!

I’ve entered a picture I’ve been working (very hard) on to threadless in hopes that they will accept as a print. But I need your help! If I don’t get enough votes in 24 hours it can drop out of the voting. So, please vote... I'll be your friend. :D

**EDIT**

Now approved and ready to be voted on.

http://www.threadless.com/submission/302310/Gentlemen_Prefer_Brains

Muriel and Charlie Webb

2010-09-19T04:31:00.000-07:00

A few years ago my Nanny (my grandmother) gave me her old computer, on it there was a great deal of old family photos. The computer itself has long since died but I was able to dig up some of the photos recently so I thought I would share.

My nanny Muriel. I'd like to think that I look a bit like her. :D

Nanny and her sister Joan.

My Grandad Charlie.

Nanny, What a betty!

This just looks like the best holiday ever.

Arn't those glasses amazing?!

Grandad and a friend of his in Germany.

This photo was saved as The Custard House Gang. Nanny tells me The Custard House was the name of a pub where she used to go dancing every Saturday.

On their Wedding day.

I may be a little bias but I think she looks just amazing.

I hope I look as beautiful on my wedding day.

Nanny and my dad, Leslie.

Nanny as a blonde, my dad (in the blue stripe pyjamas) and aunt Debra.

Look how smart dad looks!

From Left to right:

Aunt Debra, Grandad, My Dad Les, Nanny, Aunt Susan and Uncle Paul.

Flash forward to the late seventies. Left to right:

Debra, Grandad, Nanny, Susan with Paul behind, my amazing Mother Rae and my Dad.

There you have it, the Webbs!

I hope you enjoyed,

Purple

2010-08-28T20:03:00.000-07:00

Night before last I felt like a change. A purple kind of change. :D

Blitz II

2010-08-25T05:10:00.000-07:00

Just two snaps from my camera phone before the run of Blitz (and before I was close to finished.)

Blitz

2010-08-22T02:39:00.000-07:00

Just last week a series of student choreographed dances called ‘Blitz’ opened and I was lucky enough to get the opportunity to design and construct the costumes for one of the pieces.

The choreographer wanted an ‘other worldly’ feeling for the costumes in an earthy palette. I think I achieved that. Well, I hope I did. A lot of the time when I get free reign on things like this I always seem to stray in the 1950s vision of the future or Space Vixens.

I was so busy leading up to the opening that I didn’t get any proper photos of the costumes either on stand or dancer (besides two snaps on my mobile phone). So all I have to show you, my lovely readers, is the ONE ( :( ) professional photo from the WAAPA hired photographer and a handful of shots that a friend snapped from the theatre. That neither shows the costumes very well. I hope I’ll be able to get some better photos before we bump out next week.

Next time I'll be more on the ball with photos,

Cecile Mimieux

2010-07-27T03:11:00.000-07:00

The one, the only; Cecile Mimieux! Isn’t she a babe?! Cecile Mimieux was the wonderful contestant in Miss Burlesque Australia that I made the costume for mentioned in this blog post. The photos that we took on the night came out in a blur so these are by A&C Photography.

Doesn't she make it look adorable? I am so happy I got to make a costume for such an amazing person.

Two Ladies

2010-07-21T07:22:00.000-07:00

Lately, I have been helping out at the local burlesque events selling merch and other trinkets. It's a whole lot of fun and I get to meet some amazing people. Best part of it is I get to wear anything I please so I've been having a blast in one of the "Two Ladies" costumes from the musical Cabaret that my uni put on in the beginning of the year.

Now tell me, is this not the most fun costume ever?

Burlesque Costume

2010-07-17T03:08:00.000-07:00

I wasn’t going to post this until tomorrow but I am too excited I can’t hold back! Over the last few weeks I have been making a costume for a local burlesque dancer to wear in the West Australia heat of the Miss Burlesque Australia contest that will be held in Fremantle tomorrow.

I made her a 1960s styled night gown with matching bed coat in pail pink, pink frilly nickers, satin g-string (encrusted with sequins) and fluffy pink powder puff pasties with little pink bows. As well as covering a strapless bra to match.

These photos were taken a few days ago so the g-string was only half sequinned, the ribbons were still raw and I hadn’t even covered the bra at that stage but I am hoping to get more photos of it all complete and being worn by the amazing dancer herself very soon.

Birthday Photos

2010-07-02T05:45:00.000-07:00

Some of the photos I took at my birthday. I think there was a trend for blonde curly hair.

Happy 22nd Birthday, Vivian!

2010-06-26T01:04:00.000-07:00

Yesterday was my 22nd birthday and to celebrate I had a Dead Celebrities party at Deville’s Pad (an amazing bar that’s set out to look like a volcano). Of course I was Marilyn Monroe. Who else! I made the pink dress form Diamonds are a Girls Best Friend number in Gentlemen Prefer Blondes in one day (I have never made a dress in one day before). My boyfriend even bought me the replica necklace and earrings to match.
I didn’t get a lot of flattering photos threw out the night but I’ve found a couple (thank you FaceBook) that aren’t too bad that show the dress okay.

My favorite part of the dress is the big bow. Hands down.

I hope to do another photo post soon once I get to upload my photos from the night.

Give Away Winner

2010-06-23T20:07:00.000-07:00

First of all I want to say thank you to all the lovely people who entered and left sweet comments; you’re all winners to me!

But now, for the moment we’ve all been waiting for. This winner is...

Congratulations Desideria! Please email me your postal address at zombiedimplesAThotmailDOTcom and I’ll send your new favourite clothing accessory on its way. :D

That was fun. Lets do it again sometime,

Give Away

2010-06-16T02:03:00.001-07:00

Hey guys!
To say thanks for getting me to a hundred followers I am going to spoil one of you rotten. I am giving away a matching sailor collar and hat set that V&V are launching. (We will be selling them at the Retro Market on the 27th for those in Perth who want a closer gander.) We will be soon uploading these and similar pretties on our etsy account soon so make sure you book mark us!
Leave a comment to enter and you’ll be in the draw to win one of these sets (let me know what one you like best!). The winner will be drawn at random next Wednesday 23rd.
Best of luck,

Joking A (Tea) Part(y)

2010-06-07T20:46:00.000-07:00

Yesterday at uni we had a little tea party, no real reason why, we just wanted one.
There were scones, brownies, sausage rolls, cucumber sandwiches, rose cupcakes and French earl grey tea. It was quite decedent.

This is one of my favourite outfits at the moment. I love a bit of polka dots!

And Alexandra is sporting a very adorable 60's two piece. Don't you just want to hug her?!

On to other news, I hit 100 followers last week and to say 'Thank You' I am going to do a give away! Keep tuned, I hope to post more about it today.

Joking Apart III

2010-06-01T03:27:00.001-07:00

Done. Yesterday I just finished putting in the lining now it's all ready to go for dress parade. How exciting! I was worried about the trim (if it were up to me I would have left it off) but I think it's turned out quite nice in the end. I'm looking forward to seeing it up on stage.

Joking Apart II

2010-05-25T03:47:00.000-07:00

We had out last fitting last week and I do think, even if I say so myself, that it is turning out quite nice. The colour has changed to a lighter blue and it's just adorable.

I finished the dress today and will start to put the lining for the jacket I hope to be done very soon.

Joking Apart

2010-05-13T22:47:00.000-07:00

This slot we are working on a great little play called Joking Apart. It’s set from the late 1960’s to mid 1970’s and I must admit I have a dandy make. I am making a dress and jacket in a late 60’s style in a dark blue. It’s very exciting.

It's the dress from this one...

and the jacket from this one (with out train :P).

We fitted the toile yesterday and it’s looking great even in it’s calico stage. The photos do it no justice at all. I can’t wait to show you once it’s together.

Also, here are some sneak pictures of things I have been making to sell for V&V.

Antiques Fair

2010-04-26T04:46:00.000-07:00

This weekend we had an antiques fair in Perth and it's not often that I can go to these things so when I do I normally spend big. But, since I lost my job on Saturday I did make any big purchases, just some stamps for V&V.
Dress: Ebay
Gloves: Op-shop
Cardigan: Mums
Cardigan Clip: Swap meet
Shoes: A little store in Melbourne.

P.S.

I dyed my hair, do you like it?

Swap Meet

2010-04-17T21:12:00.000-07:00

On Sunday morning my mooma and myself when to the Swap Meet (Car Boot Sale) in Belmont and I came out a little poorer but with a pretty nice haul I think.

A light blue powder puff.
A cute little hat broach.

An adorable cardigan clip.

Brass and pearl opera glasses.

And this dark blue dress with white piping and button back. I'm going to alter it in to a wiggle dress. I'll let you know how it goes!

Sunday & Monday

2010-04-12T01:15:00.000-07:00

Two very exciting and fun things have happened over the last two days. On Sunday (Alexandras and my brand) V&V had our first stall at the Retro markets at the Burlesque lounge. We spent all of our week of making things to sell even uniforms to wear. It was great to get dressed up and meet new people.

And today we had our last wig class and as tradition we got to dress up and wear them. I did a 1930/40’s slash do so I wore an Andrew Sisters style uniform.

Lot's of hat fix'n.

Vintage Vanity

2010-04-07T21:10:00.000-07:00

I thought I would share some of my Vintage collection, not all of it but just my favourites. I’ve been buying vintage for about 3 years now and I am quite chuffed at my collection.

Clockwise: 1950's dusty pink evening dress, 1960's Go-Go dress, just-plain-adorable sailors’ mini dress, 1960's air hostess double breasted coat.

Clockwise: 1950's Black Sparkle Cocktail dress, 1950's Turquoise Evening dress, 1950's Ivory White Brocade, 1980's sparkle party dress.

1950's fur muff and hat.

No dates on either of these but aren't they just the sweetest?

It's not too clear but they are made of feather. 1940s.

The back unzips and it becomes a bonnet! 1950s

Most of my hats. I still have a couple more but they wouldn't fit on the table. They range from 1950s to 90's I would say.

Gloves galore!

Clip on earring collection and a couple of broaches, necklace and a caplet clip.
Hope you enjoyed,

Blue Bird Vintage

2010-03-27T00:51:00.000-07:00

Over 50 followers?! Thank you so much! I’m so glad that so many people like my blog it makes me all warm and fuzzy inside.

Easter holidays are coming up so I am busying away trying to get some more stock for a stall at the Retro Markets. I’m going to be selling some Vintage and Retro clothing as well as some hand made good and refashioned accessories. But before I can fully immerse myself in my stall I have a great deal of home work to do first. Boo! But if you are in Perth on the 11th of April come to the Burlesque lounge and say hello.

Besides from this I haven’t been up to a great deal. Finished working on Cabaret (hopefully I’ll have some photos to show soon) last week and have now moved on to Dance. The dance piece I am working most closely with is call “We’re all looking for love, Dear.” It’s a ballet with a 60’s feel and soft pastel pallet. Very cute but I am a little worried about the vintage dresses.

For any Perthies that read my blog there is a new Vintage/Retro clothing store that just opened near my work in Wembley called ‘Blue Bird Vintage’. I just popped in before work today and picked up a wonderful 80’s dose 50’s blue and white polka dot dress for $25. Everything is really reasonable prices so get in quick! It’s also right next door to Russell’s Antiques which is always good for a look around.

Burlesque Ball & News Paper Clipping

2010-03-09T22:47:00.000-08:00

Last weekend at spur of the moment I bought a ticket to the burlesque ball. I really wanted to go but thought the tickets were a little too much to spurge on while I am saving to pay uni fees but my very persuasive friend Stacy convinced me that I needed to go.

I only had two days to put together an outfit to wear but I think I did quite well as I won best dressed and a prize of $750 worth of vouchers.

AND today a friend came in to uni and had asked if I’d seen the paper because I was in it! So many people asked for my photo that night but I never imagined this. Gosh, what a surprise. Just as well too, because I forgot to get a photo of myself again. If only I could find someone who took photos of my Siamese twin costume.

Seamed Stockings Tutorial

2010-03-08T01:18:00.000-08:00

What you need:

~Stretch fabric- I used one-way stretch but if you want a little more comfort I think two-way would be better.

~Stretch Overlooking thread- You can use normal overlocking thread but you wont get the same give and comfort that Stretch will give you.

~Scissors

~Pins

The grid is 1 square equals 2.5 cm or one-inch-square. This is a size Medium and if you pick a good stretch and stretch overlocking can fit most sizes but if you are worried you can make the pattern larger by having each square equal 2.7cm or smaller 2.3cms.

This pattern has a 1cm seem allowance included.

Step One:

Make a fold about the width of you stocking on the fabric (each leg will need to be on a fold.)

Step Two:

Lay pattern on fold of fabric, pin and cut.

Step Three:

Pin and overlock open sides together leaving the top open.

Step Four:

Overlock around the top keeping it open and trim away excesses threads.

And Wallah! It’s done. Easy, huh? This pattern has an allocated allowance for a fold over to strengthen it while wearing suspenders but if you don’t like the look you can always cut it off at the height you like (make sure you try it on first or it might come out to short). You can also wear theses with the overlocking on the inside or out, there is not set way.

Now you have made your own stockings from scratch you can easily turn a pair of old panty hoes in seamed stockings. Just iron then flat and zoom away on your stretch threaded overlocker. :D

This tutorial is only for recreational use and is not for mass productions or sale.

Hope you all enjoyed my tutorial. If you have any questions or need help don’t hesitate to ask and I’ll get back to you as soon as I can! Oh, and photos! If you makes some take photos and let me see!

Friends

2010-02-28T01:25:00.000-08:00

I’ve been a bit busy as off late with uni, work and doing costume for a production of Macbeth in my free time. There’s so much that I am working on that I can’t wait to share with you (a straw boater, 18th century pocket panniers, a cage crinoline and hopeful some 50’s dresses for myself). But until then, I thought I would introduce to you some friends of mine who are new to the world of blogging.

Emma at ~ What’s My Scene ~
Emma is one of the most amazing people I have ever met. She is always so much fun to be around and always full of adventure. Emma is a part time Gothic Lolita, part time Vintage Starlet and part time Bogan all rolled into one wonderful package.

Alexandra at Lady A
Alexandra is a most talented sewer and a great problem solver. She is also terribly kind and will never leave you out in the cold when you need help. She is a terrific dancer and has the most amazing ideas (have a look at her pictures of her burlesque graduation).

I hope you find them as interesting and lovable as I do.

Dressing Gown

2010-02-18T21:39:00.000-08:00

I've got a fitting this afternoon with the actress that plays Lulu so I've been finishing things off to a fitting point. I just finished her dressing gown and it's turned out nicer then I thought which is always a good thing. :D

Hope you're having a great day so far,

French Knickers

2010-02-15T02:22:00.000-08:00

Finished French knickers today and tomorrow i'll start work on the Teddie.

Modled by Emma.

For St. Valentine's day my boyfriend got me what I always wanted, a inflatable dinosaur. <3

What did you crazy kids get?

Cabaret

2010-02-10T01:05:00.000-08:00

First slot this year I am costume crew for Cabaret and I am working on Lulu who is one of the Kit Cat girls who word at the club with Sally Bowles. Today I made the toiles (calico drafts) for her french nickers and teddy.

Modled by the wonderful Indie who is our Head Cutter for Cabaret.

The 'V' and semicircles will be made of a see-threw fabric while the rest will be a silky pink or purple fabric.

First Day of 2nd Year

2010-02-07T20:50:00.001-08:00

I am trying to make a good first impression on the first years so I'm taking a little more care on my out fits for uni.

Shirt: Op-shop
Skirt: Op-shop
Hat: Op-shop
Sewing Bag: A gift from my Mooma and Moopa.

How To Make a Sailor Hat

2010-02-02T20:29:00.000-08:00

What seams to be a million years ago (Feb '08) I made a tutorial on how to make a Sailor Hat for an online Gothic Lolita site. This was before I had an overlocker (and while I was still a little scared of them) or fabric sissors and before I knew even half of what I know about sewing now, but it’s simple and it still makes a cute little hat.

Materials:
Fabric: Scrap corners will do, you really don't need alot. I used craft cotton for mine because it’s just a bit stiffer but any fabric will do.
Ribbon: 2 m (You might have some left over but it is better to be safe the sorry.)
Cotton: Both colours of your fabric and ribbon.

Step 1. Cut four triangles with the tops rounded to the point 5” high and 4” across.
If you are new to sewing cut your shape out on paper fist.

Step 2. Take two, pin together and sew along one of the rounded 5” sides.

Step 3. Join to another then the last to make a pyramid tipped box.

Step 4. Cut a rectangle along the fold of your fabric (if you can’t just double the width) 15” High and 2 1/2” wide.

Step 5. Unfold and mark where the ribbon stripes will be. Pin and sew the ribbon on to the outside of the fold.

Step 6. Now refold and fold in the ends.

Step 7. Place and pin around the open end of the pyramid tipped box. When you reach the start fold under the excess fabric and place the end over start to make a band.

Step 8. Determine where you would like to have the ribbon ties and pin into seem.

Step 9. Now, carefully sew around pinned seems making sure you catch the ribbon ties and both layers of fabric.

Step 10. Turn right way in and your hat it now complete.

If I were to do it again there definitely would be some changes but I thought you might like to have a little look. I hope you enjoyed!

Naughty Blogger

2009-12-31T00:36:00.000-08:00

What a naughty blogger I have been! I haven’t blogged in weeks and it’s not even that nothing interesting has happened. It’s just plain laziness. Well, let me make in up to you in a montage form.

On the 10th we had out work Christmas dinner. It was the second that I have attended since working for Hostel. I finally got to show off my wonderful Boyfriend in his dapper best and get a free feed. He got a moustache in his Christmas cracker that he gave to me (as it would be lost amongst his beard).

On the 16th of December I had my Burlesque Graduation show (I had been taking a 6 week course). I was holding off posting about it until I had some photos to show but the photos that I was waiting for didn't come out the way I had hoped neither did the photos by the professional who snapped a few before the show.

I have never taken a dance class before so I found it quite tricky but most enjoyable at the end. I plan to take the advanced course to one day achieve my dream of being a Burlesque Queen.

Photo above is of the five girls in my class taken by Sugar Blue's resident photographer David Wooley. (I know its extremely tack to post the proof but I can afford the print.)

On the 19th I got a text message from my house mate asking me to call A'dora Derriere (the organiser of Sugar Blue Burlesque) to help out that evening for the show ‘Burlesque Banquet’. She had asked my house mate, who is doing the advance course, to help but she had work so she recommended me. It was a little tricky getting home from work then getting to the venue in Fremantle but it was well worth it. I had a blast. My job was basically what I do for Perth Roller Derby, which is dressing up in a cute costume and walking around with a cigarette tray bulling people but instead of selling key rings and buttons I was handing out lollies.

I wish I got some photos of what I wore (the white polka dot wiggle dress from this post) and of the show but I was so busy handing out lollies and perving on the sexy ladies of Sugar Blue that I forgot. Drats.

On the 25th was my boy friends birthday. Happy Birthday, Fanny! My house mate and I snuck into the kitchen and hung a big shiny happy birthday banner. In the morning we had waffles and opened presents.
After breakfast I met his mum, brothers and spike the bull dog (you can become a fan of spike the bulldog on facebook). They were all very lovely and gave me some chocolates.

And some to come; my house mate will be having her Advanced Burlesque Grad Show and off course I’ll be there to cheer her on. The theme is Sideshow Starlets so a good friend of mine and I are going dressed as Siamese twins. Stay tuned for that amazing costume!

Silly Times

2009-12-12T02:22:00.000-08:00

When I still lived with my folks and had all the luxuries that it entitled me too (computer, internet, cheap rent… sigh) I would spend the longest time pulling faces into my web cam to make theses silly little .gfts. I stumbled upon them today and they made me smile. Thought you might get a chuckle out of them too.

Have you ever made any? I would love to see.

Perth Roller Derby: Summer Slaughter

2009-12-11T03:53:00.000-08:00

Week before last Perth Roller Derby had it’s summer slaughter bout (last for this year). I have a long history with Perth Roller Derby, when they first started in 2008 I was the 8^th member and on the committee under the title of Artistic Director. I did things like the logo, flyers and so on. I worked on the committee and skated for PRD for about a year before commitments to uni and a knee injury made me give it up for a while. But whenever they have an event I am there with my cigarette tray flogging merchandise in some silly costume (I am pretty good at it too).

I made this dress a few years ago for a costume event. It's good to be able to wear it agian.

The Refs

The Bloody Sundays

And this years champs: Mistresses of Mayhem

Seeing Spots

2009-11-28T19:28:00.000-08:00

Boy, have I been busy! I have been rushing round the last week getting everything in order for my trip to Melbourne (I leave tonight!). Making dress and finding hats, gloves and purses to match. I am staying with a new friend and I want to make a big impact!

Here is the last dress I have made for my trip. This one gave me the biggest run around. What a tricksy little dress it is.

At first it was to have a full skirt. The pattern it came with had a full circle stating from the waist. I have a pretty high waist so I thought it might make me look a bit heavy up top so I dropped it by using the top of a wiggle skirt pattern and adding a gathered skirt just above the hip. It was very flattering but my fun 50’s dress had turned into an ugly 80’s dress! What to do? I ended up out of desperation for time just scrapping the full skirt and making it into a wiggle. Oh, well. Next time!

I wish I had enough time to make a matching hat.

Swing Time with the Andrews Sisters

2009-11-23T20:55:00.001-08:00

Last night a good friend and I went to see Swing Time with the Andrew Sister but we were having so much fun we blanked on getting photos of us all dresses up. Ge, wiz! It only came to us as we were eating our fast food dinner in our PJs at home after the show.

So you will have to use you imagination.

Alexandra wore a beautiful full dress with halter neck made of emerald green satin.

And I wore the white flora wiggle dress I posed here but with out matching hat.

I did a little search and found a clip of the show.

If they play at a venue near you; go!

Hello, My Darling

2009-11-21T21:41:00.000-08:00

Today I got a real treat. I was getting ready for work and picked up a book my boyfriend and I had bought at swap meet about two months ago, ‘But Gentlemen Marry Brunettes’ by Anita Loos (sequel to ‘Gentlemen Prefer Blondes’) and in one of the pages was a piece of paper saying “Hello my darling.” I asked my boyfriend be he denies writing it. It must have been from the previous owner who we bought it from.

A million scenarios fill my head of how it got there. How romantic.

Aloha!

2009-11-18T23:45:00.000-08:00

I was in a pickle. I double booked myself for a Hawaiian Luau and Rock ‘n’ Roll party on the same night. What a conundrum. I had to make myself a dress that would work for both and attend one after the other with minimal outfit alteration.

A halter-neck wiggle dress with flounce in a tropical print.

Might make myself a little palm tree hat to match.

P.S.

Just to let you know, this dress has been pinned to the mannequin to fit. Same as with my last dress. I have a bigger figure then most if the mannequins at uni so I pin them while I take photos.

Wardrobe

2009-11-15T20:59:00.000-08:00

As nothing terribly exciting is happening while I am waiting for my fabric to wash I thought I would take you on a little tour of “Wardrobe” one of our main costume stores here at WAAPA.

Some of the photos are a little blurry and I wish I could have got some more detailed photos of some of the costumes down there but the space is limited and so is the light.

Men’s Felt Hats. (All other hats are kept in a different storage room.)

Womens Blouses

Evening Wear

Men’s Military

(70's on the left and 60's on the right)

(90's on the left 80's on the right)

Such a mess!

WAAPA has the most amazing fur collection.

Petticoats

Timeless Womans Wear

Wedding Dresses

I pulled this one out to show you just because I love it. I think it was used in a dance piece from the gussets under the arms but I am not sure what one. It's just too much fun.

Pill Box Hat with Veil.

2009-11-13T02:05:00.000-08:00

I have been stalling working on my fabric-covered hat all month. I really had no interest in doing in at all. But, I had to stop procrastinating and get on it as it’s due this coming Monday. So yesterday I spent the whole afternoon wrestling it not having any luck at all so I decided to scrap the whole thing and start again from scratch. I found a cute little pillbox block and blocked it and this morning I picked it up and set to work. Annnd…Ta-da!

It matches my dress I am so chuffed.

WAAPA

2009-11-10T21:17:00.000-08:00

I am at the end of my first year in the three-year course of Costume Production at the West Australia Academe of Performing arts and boy, I can’t wait for those holidays! WAAPA has been the biggest challenge I have ever had to face and it has sure taken it out of me. I am no longer the happy naive beginner sewer I once was but a hard empty shell of a seamstress. I have been fishing around on the Internet the last couple of days for photos of the costumes I have made over the year for my portfolio.

And I may as well show off. :P

A Ballet bodice for the dance piece in Second Slot.

A "We're in the Money" dress for 42nd Street in 3rd Slot major musical.

All three "Shady Ladies" Dress (the Red ones) for 42nd Street.

A simple chorus skirt for the musical Parade in fourth Slot.

A couple of Nuns Costumes for Dialog of the Carmelites in 5th slot.

I wish the pink one was mine. It's a dream boat.

I couldn't find anyphotos of the dress I made in first slot. I must of deleted of my hard drive. Gosh! I don't have any photos from 6th slot yet but it will be a fun one. It is a dance piece set in the 60's in Andy Warhol's Factory.

I'll keep you posted,

Old Home

2009-11-10T01:25:00.000-08:00

A little while ago I had a little trouble in the neighbourhood where I lived so my house mate and I decided that it might be a good time to look for new house in a little bit of a better area. We handed in our three-week notice and moved. It was a wonderful house and I wish I could lie and say that I still lived in our little Retro Dream Boat but I can’t and have to admit that I am crashing with my boyfriend till I can find a new living arrangement.

But that doesn’t mean I can’t show you the photos of our old house, does it?

It even had Astro turf. Gosh, how I miss it.

Summer Dress

2009-11-09T03:54:00.001-08:00

Hello, there!

My name is Vivian V. Dimples and I am a full time student at West Australian Academe of Preforming Arts (WAAPA for short) studding Costume. I have been following other peoples blogs for a while now and reading about their lives. I don't really have a

very exciting life but I would like to share it as others have shared their lives with me.

For the last week or so I have been working on a summer dress because it is getting quite hot down this side of the world. Sometimes I would work on it sneakily when the teachers are not looking but mostly just on my lunch break or after uni.

I have gotten to the stage of hemming and binding but I am so eager to make my first post I took some photos today.

I still need to hem the skirt and I think I will bring the drape up to the hem length. It's just not graceful having people tread on your dress.

Hope you enjoyed,