The Carmella began as a vivid crimson garment with dramatic dimensional leaf style detailing already sculpted along the lapels. Rather than competing with what was already there, she was reimagined by hand to extend that sense of movement and ornament beyond the original silhouette.
Long crimson fringe was added along the sweeping edges, layered with richly colored feather trim woven with subtle shades of wine, blue, green and earthy tones. Against the saturated red, the feathers create unexpected flickers of color that reveal themselves as the piece moves.
At the back, an embroidered tapestry floral appliqué was added between the shoulders, its muted greens, ochres, reds and blues echoing the colors hidden throughout the feather trim. The feathers frame the tapestry in a deep V before meeting two ornate vintage buttons at the center. Between them, strands of pearls and faceted beads create a small curtain style opening, cascading beneath the buttons and into the surrounding crimson fringe.
Made from an existing garment and thoughtfully transformed by hand, Carmella preserves the drama of the original lapels while allowing color, texture and movement to build an entirely new story around them.
One of one. There will never be another Carmella exactly like her.
Details
• Upcycled crimson garment • Original dimensional leaf lapel detailing • Long crimson fringe • Multicolored feather trim with blue, green and wine tones • Embroidered tapestry floral back appliqué • Ornate vintage back buttons • Pearl and faceted bead curtain detailing • Raw and intentionally imperfect elements throughout • Handmade and one of one
Please note that because this piece was created using vintage and repurposed materials, subtle signs of their former lives may remain. These are part of the character and story of the garment rather than flaws.
