Today is D-Day...dyeing, that is

I'm having a load of fun today trying out different dyes to see what my denims will look like. I took some sadly faded grey jeans and blue denim shorts and dyed them a gorgeous plummy-wine colour courtesy of a relatively new RIT dye called, you guessed it, "wine". The transformation was, in one word, amazing! I know have the cutest little cut-offs (not for me I hasten to add!!!) and some straight legs that are right on trend.

The second pair of jeans were a faded blue which I put into Dylon "Antique Grey". This gave a nice lift to them without actually changing the colour very much. I think I might try doing another pair in charcoal or dark brown to get that dirty denim look. The trick is to get your timing just right. The longer you keep the garment in the dye, the stronger the effect.

All in all a good day! Pics soon!

Super excited!

I am getting ready for my first fashion shoot this Saturday and boy am I excited! Lots of work yet to do....still sewing madly...but the models are lined up and ready to rock n roll. I don't want to post any sneaky peeks just yet...you'll just have to wait :)

Vintage recycling....

One of the joys of recycling is finding a new home or a new use for things. Here, I've created two new garments from ordinary items.

The off-white poncho was once a baby blanket, not a knitted one but a gorgeous textured stretch interlock one. Cute though it was, I couldn't see it used for its original purpose. Now however, I'm sure it will be a loved addition to any girl's wardrobe. It's super soft and very snuggly!

The stunning lime jacket is made from a vintage German tablecloth that was sadly bound for landfill. I'm so pleased to have rescued it! The cotton (actually feels linen) is very high quality. The buttons are also vintage. The jacket has a button-down tab at the back and is fully lined.

Transformation complete

This charcoal pinstriped blazer was much too nice to cut up but it was badly damaged at the front edge near the button holes. I was able to repair and restore it keeping the integrity of the original design. Job well done I say!

I've been doing a little re-cutting and fitting to make a not bad men's suit into a rather fab ladies' one! The jacket had some rather obvious design changes with the buttoning changing from left over right to right over left. Sounds easy enough, right? Guess again....it was quite a challenge, one that I'm rather proud of. The trousers needed a little less fitting, more like shaping really.

So what do you reckon? Does my bum look big in these?

New accessories

Clutches are always great additions to your wardrobe. Here we have 2 tri-fold clutches, the black in super soft leather, the gorgeous magenta one in vegan friendly vinyl. The design features a back pocket which wraps inside forming a loop which can house a zippered companion purse or other bits and pieces if you prefer.

Hello from Hanny-d!!

HELLO friends! I can't believe the year has gone so fast! I've been having a bit of a break from blogging but now back on deck.
Here in Australia, we're gearing up for the cooler weather. With the change of season comes the inevitable review of our wardrobe needs. I've been busy designing and creating some cool outfits and loads of separates.

I've been doing some work with vintage fur. The chocolate neck wrap was made using an off-cut of fur from a beautiful vintage coat. To say the beaver fur is luxurious is an understatement.

The little white jacket used to be a rather uninspiring jumper with a huge rolled neck. I've brought it back to life as a little edge to edge jacket with a single button at the throat. Perfect for cooler days.

The delightful little pink/green printed skirt is made from vintage brushed cotton, straight from the 70's. It has a wide waist yoke and light gathering all round. Here, I've teamed it with a cute little 3/4 sleeve tee in cotton lycra, very comfy easy care.

The blue/black/teal printed cotton skirt is fully lined. There are multiple gores and panels incorporated into the full circle design. The random teal and black panels perfectly off-set the floral print.

Layering jackets and vests are huge this season. Wear over a sweater or tee with your favourite boyfriend jeans or for a bit of variety try it over a simple black tunic dress.

The little black dress is worn by my daughter Kristi (gorgeous if I say so myself - not biased at all!) It's silk taffeta with a black lace overlay on the bodice. The slight bubble hem is just so cute.

Stay tuned for more of my trans-seasonal goodies over the next few days.
MWAH!

Where do I start?

HELLO!! I've been busy with all sorts of things over the past few months and I must confess the blog has been badly neglected.

These two lovely cotton dresses are just the beginning of another summer collection which will feature vintage inspired designs and fabrics, such as the little yellow number and of course loads of white. A little pop of colour is always great as seen in the hot pink touches to the otherwise white dress.

Another little item to look out for are the cutest little lounging shorts (also great as PJs) in bold brights and girlie girlie patterns! These will also have matching sleep masks, just because it's fun to be a little ridiculous :)