A "Five Senses" themed competition seemed like a perfect excuse to try something new and completely out of my style. I usually use darker colors in my work, and this was a great opportunity to make something in girly colors. This made me think of my childhood because those were the days when pink colors and cute things dominated my world. For my inspiration I used one particular item from my childhood - a crazy quilt blanket that consisted of a wide array of pinks and purple shades, different textures and ribbon embroidery.

I decided to incorporate all five senses into my project and my journey began in the Garment District. After an extensive search I found perfect shades of pink and purple. I made the overbust corset pattern myself and made it out of pink and purple silk charmeuse and coutil. Purple silk was strategically placed on the side panels to make the corset look narrower. I used beaded trim and Swarovski crystals in similar tones and light frou frou with goldish tone to it in addition to gorgeous colors that compliment each other beautifully. I made sure I used different fabrics and trim with a different feel to them.

Silk charmeuse was used for the corset and the silk flowers. Crinkled chiffon was used to make a neck piece and I ruffled it for additional effect. The frou frou from which the skirt was made was additionally stiffened with sizing. The stiffness of the frou frou and little gold chains I added to it make a subtle sound when I walk. I love the textures, the different fabrics and the fabric manipulations I gave to this costume, from the smoothness of silk charmeuse, delicate flowy silk flowers, and ruffled chiffon, to the roughness of frou frou, crystals, beads, and the rough (to touch) hair flower made of thick sized ribbon and real dried scented roses.

Each silk flower was individually made and has different stamens. Some had beads in the middle, some gold, pink and purple metallic thread. To add a sweet taste to this already sweet look, I added crystallized ginger in the middle of some of the flowers.

Working on this piece was very fun and rewarding. It made me push my boundaries and try new techniques, and also, brought back some sweet memories!