This upcycled top is a very romantic and fantastical creation. It has an ethereal feel to it with a small dash of creepy for good measure. Once I saw this piece completed and took in its colours and the results of the photographs, Moonglow as a name for this piece just seemed perfect.
(Model: Paulina Hanzel)
It started with a simple camisole in a dusty lavender with a peplum at the waistline. The base of the top has been upcycled with the addition of lace skirting under the existing peplum and a sleeve of the same lace added to one shoulder strap. The other shoulder strap has been made more substantial with the addition of some of the eyelet edging from the lace. The lace trim around the neckline, underarms and back are original to the camisole.
The back of the camisole has been opened up to create a lace up back. This was for added detail as well as for sizing. The original top was quite small across the bust and waist and now, it is suited to a wider size range due to the adjustable lace up back. More of the eyelet edging from the lace was employed to form the holes for the lavender organza ribbon as well as to frame the butterfly applique on the front of the top.
A resin skull has been hand sewn to the butterfly applique with embroidery floss and antiqued lace motifs accented with Swarovski crystals and freshwater pearls further enhance the applique and feel of this design. Antiqued and embellished lace motifs are also applied to the back of the bodice and shoulder strap of the top. A vintage beaded and pearl applique adds one more dose of elegance and luxury to this design.
This top is a size small/medium with some flexibility in the lace up back. The straps are slightly adjustable and are currently in a position that should be comfortable for most wearers.