The overall impression of a costume is where my ideas start, and often the materials inspire the direction of a costume. I really think about the impression they will give both up close and at a distance. I choose bold but feminine lines, and love to pile on on the pretty stuff! I often use layers and layers of lace, assuit, heavily tarnished tribal pieces, and antique bits and baubles. I also have a deep love and appreciation for things of India, so you will find lots of silks, brocades, trims, and embellishments with a Bollywood flair. My highest priority however, is sturdy and impeccable craftsmanship.

I grew up sewing and crafting, and learned from my mother, an expert seamstress, who in turn learned from my grandmother who sewed like a surgeon! She still, to this day, inspires me everyday. I have always found pattern sewing claustrophobic, preferring always to stitch by hand, improvise, and sculpt up unique pieces. And I loooove to alter thrift store finds and other slightly rough or off treasures!

I also understand this is the only planet we get, and try to incorporate that philosophy into every choice I make. I prefer local antique shops and estate sale lots on Ebay to bigbox craft stores. There are so many beautiful materials already on this planet not being used, and I do my best to hunt out totally unique gems. My goal is reduce my use of new fabric and materials as much as I can while still fulfilling the needs of my clients. Even a lot of my "new" materials are often bought second hand.

I've adopted a minimal waste policy in my studio- I save and reuse packing materials from supply deliveries, and make an effort not to throw ANYTHING away. When I ship as I use minimal packing, just enough to make sure your piece arrives safe and sound, and can be recycled, even the mailer. Even fabric scraps and thread waste are saved to stuff cushions and pillows. Last year I'm happy to report only 2 gallons of trash had to go the landfill for the whole year. :)

All of my feathers are cruelty free, and I go the extra step to talk with suppliers to find out EXACTLY where the feathers come from, how the birds live, and that they are not plucked. Most of the feathers are molted from happy free range birds that live in sanctuaries, and by buying them I help fund the sanctuaries.

My goal as an artist is to help a large community of performance and flamboyant types to feel as gorgeous as they are! My art doesn't really live until it's a part of YOUR performance!

See more of us at theverdantmuse.com, and follow us on pinterest, instagram, and facebook- just search for the Verdant Muse!