Happy New Year everyone! I’m normally not one for resolutions but this year I have made an exception. One of the biggest promises I’ve made to myself is dedicate more time and energy to sewing and The Hip Curve. Lately, I’ve been out of commission due to work obligations coupled with family time over the holidays. Devoting more time to my passion is a way for me to devote more time to myself. That being said, I have brought my focus back to the red gown with asymmetric shoulder that had occupied my time before my extended sabbatical.

Sources of inspiration for design have always been fascinating to me. Recently, while I was perusing vacation photos from my trip to Venice, I started to recall the feelings of inspiration that I had that lead to this particular dress. Here are a few photos that led to the creation of the sketch for this gown. Note the rich red fabrics, curves in architecture and black/white stripes:

A young street ventriloquist with a puppet performing to the song “Perhaps, Perhaps, Perhaps” by Doris Day.

Museo della Musica – a free exhibit with an impressive collection of instruments and lessons on violin making.

An outdoor orchestra located in Piazza San Marco that played the finale song to Pee Wee’s Big Adventure. Quite funny, actually. If anyone knows the name of the song, please let me know…