Lilac Fan Dance

On By ResaIn Burlesque, Floral

A storm of uneasy was roiling within me.

All of the AGMs had a dedicated Art Gown, except Dale.

The only way to quell the turmoil was to whip up a gown. I figured four, five months tops.

Seven months later, Lilac Fan Dance was dreaming out of the Art Gowns atelier window.

The ruffly lace tail had become a total diva during its construction. What figured to be done in 3-4 hours took 3-4 weeks.

It was the same time consuming issues I’d encountered making the fans for Diane Lane in “The Big Town”.

It began with an 80’s floral print fabric draped on Judy. Surrounded with acetates, a sheer and lace harvested from “Atlantis Mermaid Love-In”, inspiration struck .

The harvested lace was not enough to fulfill my idea, so old lace curtain scraps were painted with acrylics inherited from my F-i-L. The dates on the tubes were from the 1990’s.

Once dry the paint was heat set, the lace cut into creative shapes and randomly gathered. The 3d lace pieces were strewn behind the gown, and it was evident backing yardage was required.

A strip of white curtain sheer left over from Belle Grâce was blotch painted with the remainder of the purple paint.

TA DA! Lilac Fan Dance – dedicated to Dale – A Dalectable Life

Suddenly, the day became dark and filled with the peal of Thunder.

Memories flooded in and I could see…

Diane Lane waiting on my front porch. She’d come to check out her fans.

Romanticized by the idea of the Burlesque circuit, Lilac Fan Dance built a fan out of peach blossoms from Dale’s peach tree on Tim’s magic tree sanctuary.

Unable to dance due to that she had wheels instead of legs, no arms of her own and no head,

…. she borrowed some of Mae West’s jokes and did a stand-up.

Happy with her time as an entertainer, but tired of life on the road, Lilac Fan Dance returned home.

“Positive thoughts generate positive feelings and attract positive life experiences. You only live once, but if you do it right, once is enough.” -Mae West

OUTTAKES

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Lilac Fan Dance © Resa McConaghy – 2024

Peach Blossom pics © Timothy Price from Off Center Not Even

239 thoughts on “Lilac Fan Dance”

  1. What a rave from the grave. Kevin Ayers. I have all his work. What with that and the lovely ‘dancer’ my early day has become something of a perfect dream. Brilliant, TOF

    Reply

  2. Love how, you described your, creative process, for making this, beautiful, gown, giving it a, tale of, origin, making the gown sort of, “come to life”, the colors are, truly, vibrant.

    Reply

    1. Thank you kindly!

      I’m thrilled you saw the gown “come to life”. I spend so much time making them, that they do become alive, to me.

      The colours really did inspire me. Have a great day!

      Reply

    1. Thank you Luisa!

      Spreading some beauty is one of my aims. It’s satisfying that you, and some others see that.

      The fans in the video were one of the many jobs I took trying to get better work in the film industry. It was a good choice. 🌹

      Reply

    1. Than you, Merril!
      The inspiration began with the colours.
      I already knew it would be for Dale. It was the floral print and colours that said Dale, and it just happened form there!

      Reply

    1. Thank you, Dave!
      The colours in the floral print were the original seed of inspiration. I do love the colours.
      Last gown was black. Next gown will be white. These colours are a perfect interlude.

      Reply

  8. Great gown! Love the story of the creation – there does seem to be a lot of lace, and a little is never enough. Glad you found materials stashed away to finish it the way it is 🙂

    I’ll admit that I never saw “The Big Town”. Quite the fan dance. And quite the fans… They might still give you nightmares all of these years later, but the look was worth it. Your headless/armless model’s fan dance was a bit more restrained… lol

    Have to love any post with Mae West quotes and I hope Dale loves the gown dedicated to her AGM alter-ego.

    Reply

    1. Thanks Trent!

      Yes, if I hadn’t found extra lace scraps, I would have had to think of something else. In the true spirit of Art Gowns, I’m not allowed to go out and buy new yardage.

      It’s crazy, as more and more old fabrics find their way to me.

      I saw ”The Big Town” years ago. I want to watch it again, but have to wait until it comes up for free on my package. Those fans were part of my initiation into working on film. They took over my life, as deadline means you’re dead to the biz if you don’t meet it. When I look at video, it’s a nightmare and dream memory all at once.

      Dale has now weighed in, and she loves the gown. YAY!!!!!!

      Also, thank you for this terrific comment!

      Reply

      1. It is amazing what she did!
        I read a couple of reviews of the movie and it does sound interesting. You, of course, have even more incentive to watch it 🙂

        Reply

  9. This gown was well worth the wait Meece! It’s gorgeous with its vibrant colors and elegant material, it is perfect for Dale. I love Diane Lane, she was fortunate to find a gifted fan maker and to meet you. The video is the icing on this cake.
    xoxoxo

    Reply

    1. Thank you dear Holly!

      I agree! The floral print and colours are very Dale. I love the way ideas and inspirations flourish into creations.

      Lol… you started this whole AGM thing with me. Started with PBH and RR, then mushroomed. It’s still mushrooming.

      Diane Lane was lovely. It was a thrill to meet her, and watch her try out her fans. It was fab to find the video snippet of that piece of the movie. It brought back so many memories of trying to break into the biz.

      Meece, thank you for being a part of my gowns madness!

      xoxoxoxo

      Reply

      1. Dear Resa, you’ve brought so much fun and beauty into the lives of the AGM’s. We all adore you, I’m sure I can be so bold as to speak for all. How many Meeces …er… designers would spend so much time and effort making others feel great about themselves? YOU!
        The day we connected ( a fabulous serendipity)I knew I’d met someone very special, very fun ,generous, and so lovely. Thank you for bringing us all together and most of all for being such a beautiful lady. This gown is perfect for Dale, it is vibrant, unique , and perfect!
        xoxoxoxo

        Reply

        1. Dear Holly,

          Beauty and fun, what a way to go!
          You guys (PBH, RR, AGMs & RB… still looking for the right piece of fabric for the Art Director) have brought much joy into my life.
          It really is a 2 way street.

          LOL…we are all our own fan club!

          I feel all the same things for you, dear Meece!

          Dale’s gown is definitely a reflection of her. I hope all of the Art Gowns are. I’ve tried to make them so.
          Okay, time to get up for awhile. I don’t know how people can sit at a desk all day. It kills my butt!
          xoxoxoxoxo

          Reply

          1. Lol, our own fan club, love that. We are indeed , we aren’t really that humble, we rock!
            I can relate to sitting at a desk for long periods of time, I take long walks to the water fountain and down the hall then there’s the constant buzzing. and not just in my head.
            xoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxo

            Reply

      2. I love that you find the floral print and colours are so me :) A simple black and white would never have done 😉

        I love that Holly is the one who started you on this fantastic voyage.

        xoxoxo

        Reply

        1. This dress is so You Dale, vivacious and vibrant and lovely. Resa can definitely read a personality and bring it to life with her gift of creativity.
          Sending lots of hugs to you two.
          💞

          Reply

          1. I thank you for your generous words, lovely Rene. Who wouldn’t want to be known as vivacious and vibrant and lovely? Blushing furiously, here.
            Lots of love and hugs to you both. 💞🤗💞

            Reply

        2. You are a flower, so…….

          Yes, Holly is a riot!
          From gags galore in comments boxes, and a poem she wrote about me and Carmine Appice, all this has evolved.

          xoxoxo

          Reply

    2. So glad you think it’s perfect for me, Rene. I am over-the-moon thrilled. And adding Mae West quotes and the “fan dance” to this post? Perfection.

      Reply
  10. Timothy Price's avatar Timothy Price

    Only the best and most beautiful gown for lovely Dale. All the months of work you put into it were worth the effort. The gown is exquisite. So alive, flourishing with vibrant colors. I love the fan dance video. What a cool fan you made from photos of the blossoms on Dale’s Peach Tree.

    Reply

    1. Tim,

      Thank you for the lovely comment!

      Yes, the best and most beautiful! LFD is a very pretty Art Gown, and they really are Dale colours.

      Making the fan from the blossom pics you sent came in a dream. That has lead to another creative idea, but that’s a completely different project. xo

      Reply

    2. How sweet are you to say, Tim! I love that you provided Resa with more pics of my beautiful peach tree blossoms. That fan is an extra oooh-la-la!

      Reply

  11. Ohhhhh…. Dale is going to be flying on wings of joy when she sees it!
    What an amazing Art Gown, dahling! Breathtaking! A rhapsody of color and texture.
    Your Art Gown is divine Poetry!
    I love the fan and … the moving fan vid! 😉
    xoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxo
    Hera is out of control!

    Reply

    2. Dahling Marina,

      Yes, she is…YAY!!!

      Ahh, the Art Gowns bring me so much joy and satisfaction.

      Poetry… I’m down with that! After all, the Art Gowns are art.

      I adore Hera, and would consider an Art Gown made from old sponges!

      xoxo🧽xoxo🧽xoxo🧽xoxo🧽xoxo🧽xoxo🧽xoxo🧽xoxo🧽xoxo🧽

      Reply

      1. Joy and Satisfaction radiate from your work and yes they are: Art with a capital A, YOUR Art Gowns!
        Now she’s even more uncontrollable!
        xoxoxoxoxoxoxoxo
        xoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxo
        xoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxo

        Reply

              1. Exactly!!!!!
                🌱❤️🌱❤️🌱❤️🌱❤️🌱❤️🌱❤️🌱❤️
                🌳🤗🌳🤗🌳🤗🌳🤗🌳🤗🌳🤗🌳🤗
                ∞❤️∞❤️∞❤️∞❤️∞❤️∞❤️∞❤️∞❤️∞

              2. 🌱❤️🌱❤️🌱❤️🌱❤️🌱❤️🌱❤️🌱❤️
                🌳🤗🌳🤗🌳🤗🌳🤗🌳🤗🌳🤗🌳🤗
                ∞❤️∞❤️∞❤️∞❤️∞❤️∞❤️∞❤️∞❤️∞

  12. Oh my goodness, Sorceress. I have no words. You have created a gown that went way beyond any expectations (not that I limited myself to expecting anything but I knew it would be everything I could not even imagine)!

    That you toiled and worked, and painted, and cut and added and even included a fan, and waited for sunlight and sent this beauty off on an adventure and, and, and.

    Using quote from Mae West? Cherry on a sundae!

    Seriously. You are amazing. Love you to bits! xoxoxo

    Reply

    1. Dear Thunder,

      Yay! I am so happy you love your Art Gown.

      I adore the colours. The fabric is one of many my friend Kat sent me. She’s another gown nut.

      The last gown was black, the next gown will be white. It’s so great that there’s all these luscious colours in between.

      Yes, how could I not use the blossoms from your peach tree somehow in this post? When Tim heard I was making you an Art Gown and I thought I could use the peach blossoms, he took extra pics. They are so beautiful. So, now I own a fan.

      Making the tail really was a lot like making those fans for Diane Lane. Sure the first ruffle (feather) goes on easy. Then as more and more get added, they get in the way. Finding where to put the needle through is like hunting for treasure.

      Cherry on a Sundae… I like that!

      Now that the AGMs each have a gown, it feels divine.

      Love you to bits, too!

      xoxoxo

      Reply

      1. Dearest Sorceress,

        How could I not love it with all the attention, time and effort you have poured into the making of it. I adore the colours. .

        And yes! How fabulous that Tim sent you more pictures of my tree. That fan will come in handy with the heat of the summer.

        It looks like it must have been ridiculously hard! I’m in awe of you.

        xoxoxoxo

        Reply

        1. Aww, well, I enjoy making the gowns. They go beyond simple visual beauty. It’s a great feeling of satisfaction to make such treasures out of textile trash.
          Sustainable glamour… now for more of those who need to wear gowns to embrace that idea.
          It’s a slow catch on.
          Hard.., lol… rocks are hard. LFD is silky, soft…and yes the tail somewhat scratchy.
          When I sew, I am taken away, in a zen way, from all the garbage going on in the world.

          Remember to feel free to engage in comments… or not.
          I’m in awe of you, too!
          xoxoxoxo

          Reply

          1. I know you do. They really are visual beauties! What do you do with them (that don’t get to go to opera houses?)
            It might be slow but hopefully, Charlotte is the first of many to come.
            I believe you. It’s a form of meditation, no?
            Of course I will. I just forgot to click on the receive all comments box. I’ll go latah!
            xoxoxo

            Reply

            1. Thunder…all of the Art Gowns starting with Mystic Lake” live here.

              Fortunately, I have lots of storage…. for now.

              At least Midnight Nightingale lives with Charlotte. I’m sure she’ll get lots of use out of it.

              Belle Grâce got worn to a Gala in NYC last year, but she still lives here.

              The next Art Gown will be a wedding dress. I have high hopes someone will want to wear her!

              xoxoxo

              Reply

              1. I figured they did. And yes, fortunately you have the space!

                And of course Midnight Nightingale is out and about in England! It is so fantastic (and I do hope it will encourage others to come and see you).

                Oooh… I didn’t realise Belle Grâce had gone out.

                I do hope someone wears the wedding dress!

                xoxoxoxo

  13. Pingback: That she has made me an AGM was already an honour. But to have an Art Gown dedicated to me? I’ve no words. | A Dalectable Life

  14. OMG!!! A stunning palate of vividness, and a wonderful tribute to Dale. Well done. Meanwhile, I’m still a bit shaken by the Diane Lane video that I haven’t seen. I’ve been a fan ever since she cast her spell on me in Under the Tuscan Sun. I recently saw an interview with her – still stunning! Back to the video.

    Reply

    2. OMG! I made you say OMG!

      Between Dale and the floral print fabric, magic was bound to be made!

      I’m a fan (theme of the day) of Diane Lane too.

      You’ll be happy to know that when she came over and tried out her fans in progress, she was simply lovely, not all Hollywood(ish) at all.

      Under the Tuscan Sun, have I seen it? The blurb sounds familiar, but I’ve seen so many movies. I think I didn’t see a certain movie, then when I start watching it it all comes back!

      Thanks for the lovely comment Frank! Clink!

      Reply

  15. Resa, I don’t know you but I see that you have dedicated your considerable talent and dedication to a person very dear to me (although like yourself, I don’t know her personally, but I do know quite a bit about her). What a stunning gift you created. It’s quite impossible to voice the extent of my admiration for your work of art. And as Dale is a mannequin sized wonder-woman, she now ‘owns’ the matching dress AND a fan too. It’s über-wonderful. She must be over the moon!

    Congratulations and love from across many ponds, lakes, and seas…., Kiki

    Reply

    1. Oh Kiki. You’ve made my heart swell. You have become very dear to me, too. I love what you have written and I am blushing furiously.

      Merci mon amie xoxoxo

      Reply

    2. Ohh, Thank you Kiki! (wherever you are)

      I’ve been fond of Dale for quite awhile now. She’s been a great sport, letting me draw her as a character (an AGM) in my Gowntoons.

      Making a dedicated work of art for her was a natural. You call her a Wonder (woman), I call her Thunder. Thunder…Wonder… all on the same page.

      This is a most lovely comment. 💞 -Resa

      Reply

    1. Thank you, Robbie!

      It was a lovely time making it…zen, relaxing.I also feel satisfied using up the old textiles.

      I just finished a short book. I will do a small review once this post dies down, and I return to my other blog.

      Your new book is the next one I’m reading! Admittedly I’ve been peeking. 🤗🌸

      Reply

      1. HI Resa, I know how happy the completion of an extraordinary art project makes me feel so I can imagine. I hope you enjoy Square Peg. I spent a lot of time getting the presentation right as it was my first time using some AI features for the design work. I did find some of the ideas helpful but they needed a lot of extra work for inclusion in a book.

        Reply

        1. Interesting that you are experimenting with AI.

          I’ll ask about this in email when I read the book. It’s very piquing topic. 🌹

          Reply

          1. Hi REsa, AI has pros and cons. It is not an immediate and complete solution but rather a helpful tool. You asked me about the term Nature Chaos poems and I forgot to answer. I did make it up but it may be floating around out there. Nearly everything has been done before, I find. PS I am going to Oslo in late May and I will be seeing The Scream by Edvard Munch in real life. I am so excited!

            Reply

            1. OMG!
              Oslo…”The Scream”!
              Have the best time! Is Michael, or your husband and other son going?

              I’m excited to go to the AGO in mid May to see this show: https://ago.ca/exhibitions/making-her-mark-history-women-artists-europe-1400-1800
              I can hardly wait!
              What you say about everything being done before is true by and large. Still your term “Nature Chaos” sounds unique.
              I came up with “Art Remembers Us” in a podcast w/Rebecca Budd.
              I haven’t seen seen it anywhere else. I now use it as a site title slug line.
              So, two of us are excited!

              Reply

  19. Resa, your creativity and the resulting beauty of your creations never ceases to amaze and delight me. This one is, of course, fan-tastic. 🙂 I’m glad you think it worth the time and effort because I certainly do and just seeing it and reading about your process gladdened my day.

    Reply

    1. Thank you so much, Janet!

      I’m pleased to delight. Fan- tastic! lol…

      It’s a zen, relaxing process building the Art Gowns, and the satisfaction of using up old textiles and recycling used clothes into the gowns is a wonderful feeling.

      This is an especially warm and meaningful comment!

      Best wishes to you and yours!

      Resa

      Reply

  23. Dale’s lilac fan gown is beautiful. The colors are wonderful. It’s always interesting when visiting here learning not only the inspiration for the work, but the construction process itself. That video clip certainly showed fans can be made elegant…and “useful.” I remember why I liked that movie now.🙂

    Reply

    1. Thank you, Bruce! The colours are spectacular…rich. These were perfect for Dale’s Art Gown.

      I like to show a bit of the making process. I think it invites us in for a closer look.

      I want to see the movie again. It’s been a long time since I saw it. I’m a huge fan (lol) of Tommy Lee Jones, Matt Dillon and Diane Lane.

      Thank you for your visit and comment!

      Reply

  24. What a delightful post, a real feast for the eyes!! I particularly like the colors in Dale’s new gown. I just checked, and I actually remembered the name of the burlesque queen famous for her fan dance: Sally Rand! (My dad used to talk about her.)

    Reply

    1. Thank you Liz!
      It really seemed these were Dale colours, and we had had a chat about Lilacs recently.
      Yes, Sally Rand invented/initiated the Fan Dance. She also did a Bubble Dance with a GIANT Bubble.
      Wow! So did your dad ever see Sally Rand perform live? I know it became really famous after she performed it at the Chicago World’s Fair, 1933.

      Reply

      1. You’re welcome, Resa! I don’t think my dad actually saw Sally Rand, although he might have. His Uncle Leo the sailor took him to see the burlesque show when he was but a lad.

        Reply

    1. Thanks Christy! 💜
      The spirit of Art Gowns evolved into “Sustainable” glamour over time. I always did use a certain amount of cast offs, but now it’s all textile trash…and whatever else might be headed for land fill.
      Proof that we don’t need to take more new resources from the earth to achieve beauty.

      I’m hoping more entertainers find their way to this, in particular Art Gowns.
      I will lend the Art Gowns for the right situation.
      Galas, charity events, award shows, photo shoots and more are all on the list. xx

      Reply

  28. Oooh. So beautiful. I love those rich jewel tones, Resa. It was fascinating to see the choices you made to bring it all together. I’m not surprised that it took so long to make. Congrats to Dale on the dedication. Now all the AGM divas have gowns. That’s worthy of a soiree. 😀

    Reply

    1. Thank you, Diana!

      It’s always major satisfaction to finish an Art Gown.
      You are right! There will be a soiree.
      First, I must finish drawing all of the AGM divas in their gowns. I’ve done 3, but I want to redo one. I did it so long ago, it feels incongruous with the others.

      Tim is doing a thing… they all have a tree, I need to draw new gowns for RR, as she will host.
      I want to do a gown for Rebecca Budd, our Art Director. I have 1 piece of fabric, but I’m not 100%, as fabric to go with it hasn’t come my way.

      Okay, welcome back! Trust you had a fab getaway!

      Next gown up is a wedding gown from the treasure you sent. I’m very excited! xx

      Reply

        1. You know, you’re right Diana!
          Haha! I spent my career working the entertainment industry. Looks like I’m still entertaining.
          Pretty lucky!

          Reply

  29. This is tre magnifique! Or should I say Dale magnifique!

    Both!

    What a thunderous, wonderous undertaking and proof that the best things simply cannot be rushed. You must take your time and carefully abide to the details. Because in the end, you will have, well, you will have this!

    What a wonderful honor for Dale to have such an amazing work of art dedicated to her.

    MUAH! to you both!

    Reply

    1. Aww, thank you Marc!
      Dale magnifique is perfect.
      Yes, an Art Gown is not to be rushed. Even when I want to, it won’t let me.

      So happy you see this as a work of art, Marc, and Dale’s is a deserved honour.

      Hey, did you see how when Lilac Fan Dance went on the road to do stand up she used quotes from Mae West? Did you see the one she picked for you?
      I wonder if Dale saw that?

      Anyway

      MUAH…back at ya!

      Reply

      1. The results are breathtaking.

        It IS a work of art. Your canvas, three dimensional and your palette a limitless bounty of colors and ideas.

        Hmmm, really?

        MUAH!

        Reply

  30. Seriously? How do you keep SURPASSING yourself? The gown is beautiful and it will look fabulous on Dale. I may borrow it, just saying. LOL The train is amazing, the color perfect. Great job and congratulations on another perfect gown. ❤️❤️❤️

    Reply

    1. Thank you Gi!!

      I just love making the Art Gowns. I find peace, escape,satisfaction.

      I’m on a gown break now… for a couple of weeks, then will begin the next one.

      I’ll send you a pic of Judy with the fabric play when I start.

      I’m so happy you like Lilac Fan Dance! xoxo

      Reply

    1. Thank you, Dan!
      I suppose one would need to know a bit about garment building to understand the process. The painting part is probably the easiest to understand.
      Well, I’m so pleased that you like the gown, and took the time to comment.

      I have been working on my doors entry. So far, so good.

      Reply

  32. What can I say, Resa? Everything about this post sparkles in vivid colors! The dress is absolutely stunning, and I love reading about your creative process. Not to mention, the fact that you made the fans for Diane Lane. That is amazing and awesome! Congrats to Dale for having her own gown now. I’m sure she’s ecstatic! Wonderful in every way, my friend! 💜🩷💙🩵💚

    Reply

    1. Thank you heaps, dear Lauren!
      Lol! I’m already excited about my next gown. One of our fave bloggers sent me 2 boxes of inherited antique fabrics (all in great shape).

      Yes, now Dale has a dedicated Art Gown.
      About time.
      Making those fans for Diane was insane, but it was one of the things I did to get entry into film.
      So happy you saw this!
      xo💜xo💙xo💚

      Reply

      1. You’re so welcome, Resa, and that’s awesome about your friend sending you fabric! Can’t wait to see the next fabulous creation! I’m sure making those fans was an experience you’ll never forget. Maybe it was intense, but look what it did for you! Amazing! I’m happy I saw this too! xoxoxoxo 💖🌷💖

        Reply

        1. It was quite the boxes of fabric delivery. I think she’s your blog pal too!
          I’ll keep it a mystery, but you just gave me an idea.
          You’re right! Things did go well for me. I am a fortunate one. I never forget that!
          xoxo💖🌷💖xoxo

          Reply

            1. 😂😂😂
              It takes so long to make a gown…but the idea you gave me is so right on!
              I’m sew excited!!!
              Really though, I need to take about 2 weeks off and then begin the new one.
              You’ve got my brain going.
              Lauren, you are a most inspiring person! 🌷🌷🌷🌷🌷

              Reply

              4. …… awwww, and that’s one of the reasons I like you so much. You can be happy for others, as well as yourself.
                It’s a beautiful quality in a human.
                xoxoxoxoxoxoxoxo

  33. Hyperion's avatar Hyperion

    Wow! Speechless. This art gown came to life in such an amazing way. Dale will have magical powers when she wears this gown in upcoming adventures. 😍

    Reply

  34. I love everything about this post. The video, lovely fan dance, the fan and the use of recycled materials is so intriguing to me with the extraordinary level of detail that goes into all your work.

    You are truly amazing, you must feel honored Dale. Thank you for sharing

    Reply

    1. Hello Joni!
      This is a lovely comment indeed. I love that you see all that I put into my gowns, my art.
      I do believe Dale is honoured, and I am honoured to know her.
      Thank you for your visit today, and your comment! 😍

      Reply

  35. Resa – you have a remarkable ability for spotting beauty and potential in the most unlikely pairings, turning them into stunning art gowns that defy expectations. You see the balance between materials and effortlessly blend dissimilar elements into harmonious designs that captivate the eye and spark the imagination. Your talent lies in your unique ability to see beyond the surface and create something truly extraordinary out of the ordinary. I stand in awe of what you have accomplished with the Lilac Fan Dance. Dale’s beauty will be enhanced with the colours and glamour of this art gown. Congratulations Dale! I am so very very happy for you.

    Reply

    1. Rebecca,
      Thank you tons!
      It was a crazy, momentary idea at first. Now the Art Gowns are a developed art with a message to bring.
      Hmm, I’m thinking what my artist friend said (last comment reply to you) “It’s the intent”

      Your comment is beyond delightful, it’s a reward.
      Do know that our Art Director is on my short list for a dedicated gown. It’s a matter of fabrics. There is a yardage in the running, but what does it run with?.

      Everything comes in its time.

      Reply

  36. Oh, Resa, it’s absolutely stunning. I love the colors and all the details of the design, particularly the little lace peplum. As an erstwhile seamstress, I always enjoy your discussion of the details of making these gowns, as well as the difficulties involved.

    I loved the Mae West quotes. LOL, and I enjoyed the gown’s fan dance much better than the other one. That was too funny. Thanks for this fun, whimsical post. You know I need whimsy. Big hugs.

    Reply

    1. Yay!
      So happy you enjoyed this Teagan.
      Not many sew, so it’s always fan when someone who does, comments. Peplum… how many know that word.
      If you were into fashion, or night time soaps in the 80’s, you would.
      I seem to remember the peplum suit jacket was a fave on Dallas and Dynasty.

      Hahaha! You have me laughing at LFD’s Fan Dance extravaganza.
      I knew someone would get a kick!
      Hey, I’ve begun working on my Doors challenge. Hugs!

      Reply

      1. Yay! I finished my silly sketch, but that story is still in the works.
        Dynasty! Yes, I even had a little navy blue suit, mini skirt and pep mum jacket. Oh to be even half that thin again…
        I also meant to say that I love the versatility you add to this (and many of the gowns) by making part of the train detachable for use as a wrap. Brilliant!

        Reply

        1. Ahh, the good ol’ skinny daze!

          Still, for those in the know, ideas for fashion and trends is in a bit of a stalemate right now.
          As many have come to understand that textile pollution is second only to plastic, ideas like mine.. reusing, restyling, vintage, components (like the gowns’ tails) that can be optioned for different looks over and over, are coming into their own.

          I meant to say THANK YOU, but got off on a tangent.
          LOL… I deleted the rest of the tangent.
          Hugs!

          Reply

    1. Thank you!
      You know, if you figure something for them, you will be thrilled!
      Lol! What about…not clothes? Get some fabric glue and make art?
      xx

      Reply

  38. Wow! What I see is pure art: the dress, the video clip (I saw the movie 😉), and your beautiful momentum on Vimeo. You have brightened my day; thank you!🤗🌹💖🥰😘

    Reply

  40. Oh wow Res, what a fabulously stunning creation! And the work involved to find new – old lace fans and create from vintage is incredible. And what a story. Definitely not just ‘something you whipped up’, lol. ❤ xxx

    Reply

    1. Thanks Debby!

      Yeah, not a whip up. Nonetheless, I will be stating a new one soon. I guess my Art Gowns are my writings!

      First, I have some things to do and post, such as;
      I finished reading your book. Loved it! Mulling over how to present my thoughts on it.
      I visited the MOCA (Museum Of Contemporary Art) and took some pics there. Working on a presentation.
      I’m doing a thing for Dan’s Doors challenge. I’m way outta the box on this one. So…. whatever.
      Plus I’ve got some street art to post.
      Keeping busy!
      ❤ xxx ❤ xxx

      Reply

      1. Woohoo on all counts. And stoked about my book. Yes, your writing is in your art, and you have lots going on. I can’t wait to read all the new posts you’re coming up with. Hugs <3xxx

        Reply

    1. Thank you!
      So sorry for the late reply!
      OMG! Your comment was in the Spam folder.
      That Spam folder is 90% great, but every once in awhile it throws a blog pal in there.

      Yes, Thank you about the gown! Dale is a terrific person. I just had to dedicate one of my gowns to her.
      Thank you for your visit and comment!
      Resa

      Reply

    1. Thank you Brian! I’m commenting as my other self from my other blog! I can’t seem to get off of there.

      I just did a post on one of Robbie Cheadle’s books, and the comments got very busy.

      Very much a VOILA moment! Sending love!

      Reply

  44. Wow Resa, this takes the cake and I could dance anywhere in that dress but I think I’d trip unless you’ve got the bustle and I’ll do the hustle.

    LOVE LOVE LOVE💕🙌🏽💓

    Reply

    1. Thank you Cindy!

      Good thing I’m checking in here.

      I’m on my other blog and commenting from my other self. LOL.

      It’s 2 different log ins. OMG You commented on May11!

      I am soooo bad at blogging, but I love it and everyone out here.

      I keep thinking about combining the 2, but can’t quite get a grip on it.

      Hope you are well and the grandkids too!

      Reply

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