Finally, I put together my Tribal Cloak and am so excited to share it. It is a super simple, chic design that is created from a cheap fleece blanket (in my case), which I decided to destroy before tearin' into a very expensive Pendleton Blanket. I am even more excited that this muslin came out so well! Muslin, in sewing terms basically means sewing a mock up with cheaper fabric to test a new garment. I have been thinking about this design for awhile and happy to see it coming to life! A little different than I originally seen in my head, but just as cool!
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I Put a Spell on You!
It all started at my Nana's house, in her crowded living room filled with collector christmas villages and small vintage houses. In between the old cabbage patch dolls and bags of scattered food (she is the one you want to visit during an apocalypse). My Nana lived through hard times: war, depression, and "female domestication at it's prime", to name a few. I am so proud she is now taking back her independence!
...but now back to the 90's at her house, I would plopped down in my own little chair. Where I watched my first ever witch movie, forever blowing my mind and ultimately changing my game for life! Faux Fur Hair Ties
The latest must have in Indian Country are Mink hair ties (sometimes Otter is also used) that flow and hang from your braids, almost touching the ground while you dance. For non-natives if you have no idea what I am talking about, these are an adornment to add a stylish element to a dancer's full regalia. Dancer's come together from all over the country and from different tribes in solidarity to pay respect, uphold traditions, honor our people, and enhance one's own and other's well-beings.
Capes, Embroidery, Plaid, & Jean Fix-ups
How it all starts!
Usually it's a browse on Pinterest or therapeutic online window shopping that helps get the creative juices flowing. Right now, in the studio I have big plans or WIP's (which stands for "works in progress"). The few fall must haves and fix-ups I have come up with are statement pieces to complete any look. I am already picturing how I will style them and what boots to pair them with! From the inspiration comes motivation and action, I then begin to sketch out the simple design/ shapes of the garment or object. I say object because I noticed jewelry designing and clothing fabrication are very similar. Working out the bigger picture and breaking it down into smaller projects is my favvv part of my system when fabricating clothing or jewelry. For example, I'll be inspired by a Miley Cyrus crop top and put a little doodle together, then go right into construction by breaking it down into: front bodice, back bodice, neck finishing, arm-hole finishing, and bottom hem. Working on each piece and puzzling it together to form a sexy, fun crop! The sequence/order is key and figuring out the operation that is my favorite, so once my inspirations turn to sketches, and sketches to small goal, and finally my small goals turn into lists. Check lists that I can check off until completion! Fresh Beginnings Sitting at my newly borrowed table from my boyfriend's mom (also happens to be our next door neighbor) with no coffee! I am a coffee fanatic too, but because there happened to be mold from leftover grounds when I packed up and moved from Ann Arbor, I am left with my mac and a bowl of Avocados staring at me. Whoops!
After moving from my beautiful self-made studio in the lively city of AA, I am now back in my small town Baraga located in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. Yes, the upper half of the state. I am blessed with Lake Superior a block away and a new small one bedroom apartment where I hope to create new beginnings. Technically residing in L'Anse, but that all doesn't matter. (Stay tuned for pictures of our little nest!) |
Tashina LeeHello, I am Miss Keweenaw (Ke·wee·naw) Bay 2008, University of Michigan Graduate in 2015, and current graduate student of NYU Tisch. I have come from a small Upper Peninsula Rez and have explored as far as Ghana, Italy, and England! My passion is creating wearables that embody my indigenous roots, contemporary vibes, and optimistic outlook on life. I write to give insight into my process, life, and my home as a modern Native with many visions. I want to share, inspire, and bring awareness to other others. Be sure to keep up to date by subscribing below! #TashinaLeeEmery #TLEJewelry
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