About this project

I’m coming to Kickstarter because I am a designer with a dream. Here’s what I’m up to: a clothing line called dollparts that utilizes eco-conscious fabrics, remaindered or discarded textiles, as well as vintage and thrifted pieces. I am committed to running a label that is produced in Chicago, shows consistent style, quality and durability and maintains a voice in the rapidly developing environmentally conscious fashion community.

I am designing for the woman who gets excited to get dressed each morning, chooses to wear clothing that adds to the creativity and individuality of her style and appreciates the process of executing high-quality and eco-friendly clothing. I believe that in years to come, many more women will fit into this category as the social, ethical and environmental costs of mass-produced clothing become more apparent.

Scarcity creates design challenges and stimulates my creativity in many ways and because reusing and recycling is the essence of my business, I have not made conventional fabrics and supplies an option. My fabric consists of remaindered fabric from local designers and cutters and used and vintage clothing. When drafting a dress pattern, I take into account the shape and seam lines of the button down shirt or the skirt I’m cutting the dress from. A lot of the designing is actually done when cutting the garment, which in most cases makes each garment unique. The rest of my materials such as zippers, buttons, lining, etc comes from local designers and cutters, thrift stores and estate sales.

I also cut and sew limited runs of garments using remaindered fabric. Leggings are a great example because 1 pair may only need ¾ of a yard of fabric, so if there is only 6 yards left of a cobalt jersey knit, I can cut and sew 8 pairs of leggings. With the limited fabric, the cobalt leggings will be more exclusive.

Because the designs are cut from vintage, I prefer to restore the vintage characteristics in the construction, designing and styling, yet creating a modern look at the same time. Less short cuts are taken with old-fashioned clothing such as hand sewing and higher quality seam finishes, which makes the garments more durable and valuable. Chicago has so many talented designers, but the city still doesn’t seem to be recognized for its fashion. I hope to contribute to the growth of the fashion industry here.

I have had several wonderful opportunities in Chicago that have given me the experience I need to start dollparts. I was a design assistant for a children’s clothing line where I was responsible for everything from designing to pattern making to managing production. After that, I began freelancing design work for other designers and private clients, working for an eco-friendly clothing designer, and managing and co-producing sample sale events.

New designers have to work extra hard to even be noticed, let alone have his or her name recognized. Having some seed money is the only way to get a successful line started. I am going to launch this clothing line either way but with your help it will be a lot easier. I'll be able to purchase clothing labels and hire a seamstress, fit models and a part-time employee so that I can produce in higher volumes. I have been waiting years to launch a line on my own and am so ecstatic that I am finally doing it.

Please check out my blog on http://www.dollpartsdesign.com/

For pictures of looks from dollparts:
http://www.chictopia.com/dollpartsdesign
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Dollparts/144735968893091
http://lookbook.nu/user/117023-Dollparts-D
http://dollpartsdesign.tumblr.com/