Last week, I announced my participation in a contest called “What Will You Create Today?”. I partnered with the lovely and industrious Jentine for a week of shopping, painting, pinning and picture-taking. Today, we’re done creating and ready to show off the fruits of our labour (and maybe, if you’re feeling generous, pander for some votes?).
For our project, we wanted to touch on all the things we love about Ottawa Street in one sophisticated ensemble. We created alook that’s a combination of new, old, and hand-made – which is Ottawa Street in a nutshell. Our search began with a blank canvas: white cotton, ready to be pinned, sewed, and painted. We purchased the fabric from Discount Fabric, and then purchased our fastenings and fabric dye from Fabricland. Next up, we searched through the racks at Revolving Closet, and sourced a vintage black dress, that we would eventually modify into a blouse.
We returned home with our materials, and spent the next few days collecting ideas, assembling pin-boards of our vision, and creating our garments. First, Jentine sewed the skirt, and then we hand-painted it with our fabric dye. This may sound all kinds of cheesy, but this contest sort of re-awakened me to the social benefits of being creative. More often then not, I gather with my friends to eat, drink, and watch The Bachelor. But this time around, we met to sew and paint. There was something so pleasant about sitting Jen’s table, surrounding by fabric, little bowls of dye, paint brushes, and cats, just chatting the hours away.
For the pattern on the skirt, we were inspired by this image: a Hamilton skyline tattoo! We decided that abstractly referencing that skyline on our skirt would be the perfect way to pay homage to our great city. We also used that skyline as the backdrop for photographing our ensemble. The photo shoot in itself was way too fun. I channeled my inner art-director (sporting my Dior blazer), and insisted Jen spin until she puke (“SPIN FASTER!”). And she delivered! (On the spinning, not the puke). Look at that skirt move. Even if she had puked, it’d be worth it.
The look was finished with a vintage necklace and ring from Antique Avenue for some added sparkle, and a simple clutch from the not-yet opened Orange Tree Boutique (which will be a beautiful space!).
We’re thrilled with the end result, but even beyond the finished product, we loved the opportunity to visit so many of Ottawa Street’s retailers. They were helpful, encouraging, and always friendly. If you feel so inclined, head over here to cast your vote for your favourite blonde-haired duo at entry #4. Obviously, we’d like to be the victors, but we’d love to donate $1000 to the Alzheimer’s Society. You can help us do both. Happy voting!
UPDATE: WE DID IT! Actually, YOU DID IT! All you votes made us the winners of the WWYCT Challenge. THANK YOU!!!