Creating fashion can be exciting and the journey full of thrill. The varying length, styles, and fabrics fashion designers get to work with makes it even more worth the work. Afterall, what would be the joy n fashion designing if everything was monotonous and lacked creativity?
Previously, we had a chat with Oluwapemi Akintan to discover how she created the off-one shoulder beaded bodice wedding gown with a multi-coloured petal skirt. This week, our spotlight was on Olajumoke Akindele to talk about how she made the silk maxi gown with a cowl neckline and sleeve cut-outs.
A graduate of Civil and Environmental Engineering from the University of Lagos, Olajumoke Akindele is the founder and creative director of MITCHY’S fashion. MITCHY’S fashion is a classy and unique bespoke and ready-to-wear womenswear brand for the stylish woman. For its ready-to-wear line, the brand specialises in casual and corporate wear and also does fashion training.
One who had always loved to dress well and see beautiful dresses, Olajumoke decided as a teenager that she would be that perfect tailor she couldn’t find anywhere to sew her clothes. Once given the opportunity to learn tailoring after her university studies, she didn’t dull but jumped at it and that is how MITCHY’s fashion was born.
The Step-by-step Process of Making the Silk Maxi Gown
Getting Inspiration to Create the Dress
This client knew what she wanted so the main inspiration behind this dress was a style the client sent to me. To add the brand’s touch to the outfit, I made a few adjustments here and there and everything turned out well.
Choosing what fabric to use came next. For this, I considered my clients preference. She wanted a soft or light fabric that would flow. Now, many fabrics can do this, but, I chose silk cause it is lightweight, feels great on the skin and is slightly shiny. It was just perfect for that simple yet classy look we wanted to achieve.
The Creation Process
My first step in making any dress after the design is knowing the best possible method to use in creating it perfectly. There are various methods for different styles and designs but I know what works for me and I just go with it.
The next step was sourcing for the fabric that best suits the design. Afterwards, I went down to the creation.
Step One: I cut out the pattern for the upper bodice, using the slash and spread method for the cowl neckline in front. The back neckline had a petty wide keyhole with belts on both sides to make a bow. I also considered this when drafting my pattern.
Step Two: I then cut out the lower part, that is, the flare, directly on the fabric using the triangle method. The triangle method was achieved by folding my fabric diagonally, using the right dimensions, and cutting it.
Step Three: Finally, after I was done cutting using my client’s measurements, I added interfacing where necessary, ironed where needed and then I join every part of the dress. VOILA! I had finished the silk maxi dress making.
What Factors did you Consider when Making The Dress?
1.The Client’s Budget :
This is an important factor I consider every time. I do this so I don’t run into losses while delivering the best possible outfits. I wouldn’t want to spend more than I would be paid for the outfit on it.
2. The Client’s Size
The client’s size is necessary for me to know the amount of fabric I would use for the outfit. It helps me determine how much fabric, lining, embellishments, and so on that I would use for the outfit.
3. The Client’s Taste
This is necessary to determine the final look of the dress. While some clients love exaggerated details on their outfits, others don’t. It is so important to never ignore your clients’ taste.
4. Fabric
When it came to the fabric, durability, comfort, weight and elasticity were the factors I considered. Also, the client’s budget played a role here as well, I had to buy a fabric that was within her budget.
Creating fashion pieces can be really fun and exciting once you know what you’re doing. And that’s the story of how the silk maxi gown by MITCHY’s fashion was made. What was your favourite part of the making process? Do let us know in the comments below.
