iN THE MAKiNG: JACKiE SHORTS REHCY VONNE S/S'13

Jackie Shorts by Rehcy Vonne S/S 2013

I'm sure you've noticed the vintage inspired swimsuit trend that's been ridiculously huge this past year and is only getting more ridiculous this season, right, well, I think those high waist 1940s and 50s swimsuits are adorable, and I wanted a way to make them wearable daily, not just on beach day. So thus inspired the Jackie shorts for Rehcy Vonne S/S '13. Available here at the Rehcy Vonne shop on Etsy. 

Below are a few pics in my process of designing the Jackie's.

For the first step, I draped and sewed several samples (or muslins) until I got the perfect fit for a similar pair of shorts that this style will be based on.

I used the muslins (samples) to make a pattern.

Next I adjusted the pattern from a woven pattern to a knit pattern. Knit fabrics fit differently than wovens and the pattern needs to reflect this. Normally I would just drape some knit fabric from the beginning, but I wanted a high waist base pattern to create several different styles from without having to drape a new sample each time. Having the base pattern saves me several steps when making future shorts with a similar style.

After adjusting the woven pattern to a knit pattern, I used it to make a sample in the knit fabric.

Then comes testing the fit of the knit version, making final adjustments to the pattern and patterning a waistband... and several other steps, but I don't want to go into to much detail...you'll get bored.

Presenting the Jackie short!
SHOP HERE
**AM

DESiGN PROCESS: THE BiNDER

Whenever I'm creating a new collection, the collection receives its own binder. Everything that pertains to that particular collection is kept in the binder; sketches, color scheme, fabric samples, receipts, notes from model castings etc. This makes designing a collection so much better organized. Anytime I need to find a fabric ID number in order to make a rush order on fabric, quickly compare costs, or some other minor crises, I do not have to run around frantically searching for a receipt; it's all right there in that collection's binder. This binder goes with me to every meeting, casting call, and photo shoot involving that collection. Big believer here in organization. Hey, just a bit of organization helps make life a little less stressful.

The sketches are placed in sheet protectors, and I write quick notes, and ideas on the protectors with dry erase marker. That way I can easily erase, change ideas around, and play with the order for the fashion show  while minimizing the damage done to the sketch from consistent erasing. I like to keep the sketches in good condition for future use in blog posts and such.

Names of models from casting calls are written on sticky notes and placed on the sketch of a garment that I'm considering for them. The sticky notes are changed around several times before I finalize the show's model line-up.

 This binder is from the Rehcy Vonne Fall 2011 collection. **AM

Power Issues & Starting a Business

Hey Everyone!

Alright, it's been a few days since I posted so here is what has been going on...

Last Thursday I attended the Starting a Business Seminar with my local Small Business Development Center. The seminar was very informative and covered all the general areas of starting a business, including writing a business plan, taxes, types of business entities etc. Overall it was a bit overwhelming, so much stuff to learn and figure out!! Thankfully the center offers more specific seminars and one on one counseling. I'm definitely going to need help with trademarking and branding, as well as, taxation, permits, and the legal process. They did give a CD with more information on it; I have yet to go through it.

Tomorrow I will be meeting with Tim, my friend that is heading the fashion show, about some questions/issues I have with the way the show is heading. Apparently the benefactor has been changed, and I am not to happy with that. Originally Tim was very enthusiastic about raising money for the American Cancer Society due the effect cancer has had in his own personal life. However, now I believe that too much power has been given to others working on the show. I would really like the show to be in support of his original dream. So we'll see how the meeting goes tomorrow. Pray it goes well!

Lastly, I received a new serger as a gift. Yay!! I will be experimenting with it in the next few weeks, and it better work well!!! lol I am so excited to have it!

Other than that, I have just been working on show garments and commissioned pieces.

Have a fantastic weekend!

Workin' on Dreams!

Another Work In Progress

Here's a peek at a garment I'm working on for the fashion show. It's been work, work, work, keeping up with my accessory line, clients, and working on garments for the show. I don't think I even know what sleep is anymore!

Also to remind you, today I will be attending the Starting a Business Seminar with my area's Small Business Development Center. It will be held at the University of West Florida Fort Walton campus. I'll inform everyone on how it goes.

Model Casting & Grandma in Stilettos

Yesterday we had the first day of the model casting for the fashion show for the American Cancer Society. Only a very small amount of people auditioned, and now I'm a little worried that we will not have enough models for the show. Looks like we're going to have to scrounge up more some how...GRANDMA!!!! :-P Tomorrow will be a better day, right?

In business news... I am registering to take a Starting a Business seminar at the Small Business Development Center at the University of West Florida. My contact with the center recommended the seminar to me. It cost $35.00, and I'm broke so it better be worth it!! lol

Other than that, I have been working on some garments and accessories for the show. (Will post pictures soon)

Lots of work, and lack of sleep!!! An assistant/intern definitely is needed, and I will be taking on one soon.

Tips for the day:
Girls, when you show up for a model casting, make sure you bring a pair of heels with you and stand up straight, please.

Meetings & Construction

Hey Hey!!

Been a few days since I last posted so it's about time to update everyone on what's been going on...

This past week I met with Jessica, the person who will be helping provide models for the fashion show, for the first time. She runs her own model promotion company. However, I did forget to get the name of the company. I will have to do that and let everyone know. The meeting was for me to give her a good description of the size and look I would like my models to be.

The rest of the week has been spent working on garments for the show. For a few days, I had to work through a headache, but all is well now!! No excuses!! lol I'll post some pictures of some of my progress.

Workin' on Dreams!