Inspiration came in 2 boxes from Diana – Myths of the Mirror
Linens & laces inherited from great grandmother & grandmother to mother then her, became all mine; an Art Gown to share.
Her beauty holds memories of Victorian times, and the bright light of many tomorrows.
Victorian Sonnet is dedicated to Diana, her great grandmother Emilie, her grandmother Truly (Caroline), and and her mother Tineke (Dutch nickname for Anna Martine).
Sonnets from the Art Gowns
Structure
Iambic pentameter – 5 feet to a line – 4 lines to a verse – 3 verses & a couplet
Rhyme scheme – ABAB, CDCD, EFEF, GG
Third verse volta
I
Dear Diana your lace and your linen
Great grand mother, grandma, mother then you
Woven treasure fair sent passed on to begin
Romance dance a dress white and blue.
Lace held, fabric draped inspiration gold
Creation libation confusion strewn
All threads gay with gathers theirs to unfold
Ancestry, a love light shimmering through!
Yet should something arise break then the spell
To find magic's construct tattered and torn
Ere rendered fore tendered tossed into the swell
Became fragments merely blithely left lorn.
Our memory painted lingers in mind,
Inherited Victoriana's time.
© Resa
The Making Of
When the fabrics arrived, I threw the lot on top of Lilac Fan Dance. There was also a fabulous mosquito net with cotton top.
When the time came to begin, there was so much lace and linens, I needed to spread them all out.
All laces and fabrics were hand washed, and tested for tensile strength.
A bertha collar was formed from a bed jacket’s trim and lined with mosquito net.
An underskirt was cut from the cotton top of the netting.
Mosquito netting was added to the underskirt to make it full length. Lace cut from the lace tablecloth was sewn on top of the netting.
A blue linen jacquard tablecloth was formed into a corset shaped top with straps into a plunging back.
My friend Kat gifted me a new Judy, so I transferred the gown to her. She also sent massive yardage of new, but cut into, winter white synthetic curtain sheer, found for a pittance at the good will.
After washing, the sheer was cut into a 3 tiered overskirt, and trimmed with the lace yardages. The sheer makes a solid backing that fortifies the antique laces.
Two side tails were draped in bias from the sheer, then trimmed with edges cut from the lace tablecloth.
A third centre tail was draped from the mosquito netting on bias. This tail was trimmed with the last of the lace yardages. It was then filled in with geometrically placed doilies, table covers and bits of cut up lace edgings.
A bussel was formed from blue serviettes that matched the bodice’s tablecloth, and eyelet lace trim from the second bed jacket.
Vintage hand covered buttons adorn the bodice.
Voilà! Victorian Sonnet
She’s so beautiful, I went overboard taking pics.
OUTTAKES
Serendipity
November, 2023 – The 2 boxes arrived, from Diana. Lilac Fan Dance was still in the making. I knew Diana was mid book. In May, 2024 Victorian Sonnet was begun. 6+ months later, the gown and Diana’s book – Tale of the Seasons’ Weaver – were finished, more or less at the same time.
Release – January 2, 2025
Available exclusively on AMAZON – Worldwide
How is an art gown like a good book?
You hate it to end!
HAPPY NEW YEAR!
Art Gowns 
VERY impressive (and nostalgic) creation, Resa! Evocative poetry, too!
Resa is a dream, Dave. Thanks so much for stopping by to see what she created with piles of old heirlooms. She’s amazing.
💙
So great, Diana, that you contributed those wonderful heirlooms that Resa worked her magic on!
It was my pleasure entirely. I sent them to her without any expectations. So I’m beyond amazed.
🙂
VS is a beauty. What a treat it was to have some “Classy trash” to work with. I’m honoured by Diana.
Thanks about the sonnet, Dave. So many rules, but I like it in the end!
“Classy trash.” Love that phrase, Resa!
“Classy trash.” lol…I did say that! 🤭
🙂
Hi Resa, this is a glorious gown. It would make an unusual and amazing wedding dress. Perhaps I should ask TC if he wants to get married again 😉. Your poem is delightful. A gorgeous Victorian Sonnet.
It would make a gorgeous wedding dress, Robbie. That would be a great reason to marry again. 🙂 I imagine you were as impressed with Resa’s sonnet as I. Hugs.
EGADS! The Sonnet… so many great writers out here. I’m so thankful to have a seal of approval from both of you!
Cripes… I’d be happy with a seal. 🦭 (yet another animal we have marginalized!)
xo
There is a lot of talent in this community and yours is right up there. I’m not surprised you crafted a gorgeous sonnet 💚
Thank you Robbie! xo
I’m still shocked… I wrote a sonnet. As a rule I hate rules, 🤭 but one cannot write a sonnet without rules.
Ahh, my first post next year will be the skateboard one! ..on Glam.
Excited! 💙
🙂 All your worries were needless. Your sonnet is beautiful.
Resa’s creativity comes out in many different ways. It’s a wonderful sonnet 💕
🕊🤍💙
Lol… well, Robbie, many do get married again, renew their vows.
I thought all along she’s like a wedding dress.
“Something old, something new, something blue.”
Something borrowed is missing… I thought maybe I could say I borrowed the buttons, but once they are on the dress, they aren’t so borrowed any more.
The Sonnet – that was quite a challenge. So many rules… and never mind rules, it still has to feel & sound right too!
Thank you, dear Robbie!
Some people do renew their wedding vows. This dress should be for a beautiful young bride with the sparkle of hope for the future in her eyes. Sonnets are complex to craft and yours is a delight.
A young bride; I would love that. I am hoping. Gee what a great post that would be!
Fingers crossed. BTW, I posted my review of Nine Black Lives to Goodreads and Amazon US. I will post to my blog in January. It is very quiet in blog land this week so it would be a waste to post it now. I loved it. You are a great writer.
OMG! Wow, thank you, Robbie!
A great writer… okay you make me feel like being creative… and getting back to my humorous anecdotal memoirs from my time in the film business.
They are quite funny, in a painful way! 😂
Yes, it is quiet, but it was time to post Victorian Sonnet to be timely with Diana’s book launch.
Still, it will be a good month until I post something new on Art Gowns, so it will keep me busy enough.
In January I’ll be reading the book you sent me!
You are a wonderful blog pal!
I would be very interested in reading your memories. I thought the information you included about costume design and movie making was fascinating. You are very good at characterization. I am reading Diana’s beautiful book now. It’s like reading a painting. I am glad we are friends. I learn so much from you.
Same!
I look forward to reading Diana’s new book! … and a few others. I want to finish The Rose Shield series.
💖
that’s really elegant, resa –
She’s a wizard, Beth, and I was honored that she decided to make something so beautiful out of the fabrics.
Thanks Beth! She really did come out nice. I had inspirational product to start with…so!
What a fabulous post this is, Resa! That art gown and your Victorian sonnet–fabulous! And how wonderful it all came together around the same time as Diana’s new book.
The gown is stunning. I especially love the shots of the back, something about the Vs and the perspective. 💙
Thank you for the wonderful comment, Merril. Resa stole my heart with this beautiful gown and post. I loved seeing all those family heirlooms transform into something creative and beautiful. And her sonnet is stunning too. Who knew she was also a poet! ❤
Thanks about the Sonnet you 2! xx
You’re so welcome, Diana.
Fabulous all around–heirlooms, gowns, poem, and sharing. 💙
❤
Also, the family photos you shared are so wonderful! All those puffs and ruffles!
I know! A lot of the lace is rather stiff, so I can’t imagine the underwear was particularly comfortable. Lol.
I was wondering about the laundry–such a job then!
Lol. I’m sure it was.
Merril!
I’m thrilled with the Art Gown, and never worry about if people will like my latest creation, or not.
The Sonnet…I lost about 3 nights sleep, tossing and turning, worried about all the writers out here. Oh my! What would they think? So, now if you like it, I’m good!
On top of everything, our furnace broke down on the night of the Solstice. It was -18C. It was almost 4 days until I felt heat again. (and it cost a fortune to get people to fix it over the holidays)
Oddly, the photos had finished being taken about 2 hours before the furnace cacked. Making this post over the cold days kept me going.
LOL! 🕊💙
Oh no! I’m so sorry about the furnace. Four days without heat? Yikes,
and you stayed there without heat and below 0 temps?
Our daughter and her husband had to call emergency plumbers on Christmas Eve–around midnight because a pipe in their house burst.
I’m glad it’s all fixed now. 💙
Merril,
Thanks and yes, it’s all fixed. Nothing like inconvenience and extra expen$e$ at Christmas.
Yes, we stayed. We had 2 space heaters in 1 bedroom and an electric blanket. Lol… Urban survival.
The bathroom was an adventure. I thought about winter visits to family farms outside of Winnipeg (Winterpig) when I was a kid.
Some still had outhouses… so I put thing in perspective. 🙄😬
Gee whiz! I hope the burst pipe didn’t ruin a bunch of stuff at your daughters. It’s always the coldest night those things happen.
Back to normal, it seems!
See you at your musings in the morning (ish)!
🕊💙
I’m glad it’s all fixed, Resa!
Yeah–using an outhouse in winter, especially in a very cold place would not be fun.
Fortunately, I don’t think anything was ruined. It was just expensive. It’s good they were home though when it happened!
Oh good!
Yes, to be away when a house horror happens can be very costly.
💙
Definitely! 💙
Oh, dahlin, this is ABSOLUTELY FANTASTIC!
Victorian Sonnet and …a sonnet. You amaze me!
What also amazes me is how masterfully you created her after having all this abundance of fabric laid out!
A huge hug and a kiss and a big WOW!
xoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxo
Hera is woofless!
I was also amazed at seeing how all those separate pieces of garments and cloths came together, Marina. That requires vision, which Resa has a surplus of. And a sonnet. I’m blown away by that too!
🕊🤍
❤
Thank you, dahling!
I’m thrilled with Victorian Sonnet, too!
It was a crazy treat to have such pretty lace (and LOTS) to work with. VS is a very pretty girl.
The Sonnet – Yikes! I worked crazy hard on that, and there are so many poets and writers out here that I was quite nervous about posting it.
AND… our furnace broke on the night of the Solstice. (-18C) Making this post was about all I could do. It kept me going!
XOXO🧽XOXO🧽XOXO🧽XOXO🧽XOXO🧽XOXO
Wow, what an incredible gown! I love the way each detail is so meticulously and artfully thought through; from the mosquito net with a cotton top to the laces inherited from generations past, this dress is a magnificent creation! The contrasting colors really caught my eye as well, with the blue bussel reminding me of a blue sky on a spring day. This is amazing, Resa! What an honor to be able to see it and what went into its creation. Congratulations! 💜💜🦢🧡
I was captivated by the bustle too, Ada! It kind of ties it all together, literally and figuratively, lol. The blue is such a gorgeous touch in this gown – I can picture Resa’s mind working through all the options with the load of materials. I am so honored by her kindness and her creativity. I love it that these heirlooms found a second life. ❤
What a lovely idea, Diana! I love the way your family heirlooms have been given this new opportunity. It’s touching and beautiful. Bravo! 🧡👗🙂
❤ ❤ ❤
🌟🤗
Thank. you Ada!!!
It was such a joy making this gown. I use all fabric cast offs and old curtains, and clothes headed for landfill, so it was wildly inspiring to have these heirloom pieces to work with.
I’m addicted to putting bussels on my Art Gowns. I think a little puff at the back is so charming, and feminine.
Also, what a joy that you have come and taken some time to look and read.
Your comment is a blue sky on a spring day. 🤗🌟🕊🤍💙
So elegant and full of special details . . . honestly, this gown takes my breath away! It’s magnificent! 🧡🎇
Yay! I’m humbled…and pleased that I have made Diana happy! 🌟🕊🤍🎉
Oh this is a beautiful one Resa, what a nice way to finish the year, I like those pics, especially the one showing your atelier and all things around, not a mess, rather like a nebulae giving birth to a star…no I am not stoned, just on coffee and not much sleep this morning…:) The gown is fabulous, what a nice post it is.
Thanks for swinging by Resa’s and for the beautiful comment – “a nebulae giving birth to a star.” It was a joy for me to see all these heirlooms find a beautiful second life.
JMR paints stunning nebulae.
Early next year I’ll do a post on my art blog about his special and amazing life drawing gestures!
I stopped by and looked at the photos and artwork. That sounds like a great post to this fan of anything having to do with space!
Yes, JMR’s spacial feels are special.
An endearing quality is that he never wants his detailed paintings to end. So, they change forever.
Anyway, of all his work, the life drawing gestures are my personal faves.
Now that you mention it, I think I might include some of his abstract nebulae in the post.
It will all come when I actually do it!
🙂 🙂
Aww, thank. you Jean Marc!
Yes, the atelier goes through a lot of mess. Then, when it’s time to take pics, it takes 2 days to clean up.
I am lucky to have this space!
Thank you for this lovely comment JMR! xo
I would not dare to put on the web pics of my place…it is chaos…:D
Lol…but Maya loves it! xx
Beautiful design.
Resa is so unbelievably talented. Her gown is exquisite.
🎉
Agree with that. Very talented.
Thank you, Freddie! Happy New Year!
You’re welcome Resa, happy new year.
🌟🎉
How generous for Diana to entrust you with her family heirloom! And the finished gown proves that that trust was more than justified – I am sure Emilie, Truly and Tineke would all be ecstatic with the beautiful results you got out of that cache of horded material from that distant era. Ah, yes, and I would be frightened to write such a wordsmith as Diana a sonnet, but you did a great job here as well 🙂 (An aside -Diana was once gracious enough to write a forward for a book I short stories I self published)
Anyway, bravo, Victorian Sonnet is wonderful, as is “The Victorian Sonnet Sonnet”.
Thanks for the lovely comment here at Resa’s, Trent. I was thrilled that she was willing to take my heirlooms, and I had no idea that they’re become this gorgeous gown. It’s rewarding to see them find a second, beautiful life, rather than sit in a bin for another 100 years. Resa’s sonnet just added more loveliness on top of everything else. She outdid herself. And I was delighted to write your foreword. What a wonderful community we have.
We do have a great community here 🙂 You had mentioned doing a post with Resa and she had mentioned the gown using materials someone she met through the blog had given her, but I did not connect the two until I saw this post. I am not surprised that Resa was able to create a gorgeous gown from the various bits you gave her. And it is better in a gown than as a collection passed down through the years. And yes, her sonnet was wonderful 🙂
I totally agree, on all counts!
I liked the back story of the material that you posted on your blog. I also really liked the photos. The top one was particularly striking. Your grandmother looks a little uncomfortable, but your great-grandmother looks almost alive, like she is speaking to us through all of those years.
I never knew my great-grandmother, but my mom just adored her. Your sense of her is lovely, Trent. I appreciate that. 🙂
We have a fantastic community.
I’ve got a mural coming up in January. Trent wrote a song that I’m using! I think the mural helped inspire him.
So exciting. 🌟
Oh, that will be fun. I like Trent’s music. Another multi-talented member of our community! You already have a lot planned Resa. I’m starting to feel excited for the new year.
Yes!
It is exciting. To kick it all off, a Graffiti Alley skate board post with poem by Robbie.
Trent does add many other dimensions. He’s a lot of fun!(and smart).
That sounds like a great collaboration. 🙂
I can hardly wait to skate!
Dear Trent,
Many thank you’s for this lovely comment! I agree, I was trusted with heirloom, and it was inspiring.
The “distant era”… those are words I could not think of. The first 2 shots were taken at night, in a dark black apartment. I had turned out all lights.
The light you see is all street light. I had to be a tripod for 3- 5 seconds.
When I saw the shots “distant era” was the feel I could not put into words.
Anyway, I came up with whatever. I was more concerned with the Sonnet. There are so many writers out here… Yikes… what would they think?
Agree, Diana is thoughtful and generous. How wonderful she wrote a forward for you.
What is the name of the book?
Bravo… what can I say?
Olé!
Thank you, Trent!
The sonnet was great, and, yes, a lot of writers in this circle. Still, you held your own with your words, even if you couldn’t get that one phrase your were describing.
The book was my second book of short stories, Embers. She had made a great comment on an early version of the story “Embers”, which is a big part of the reason I reached out to her. Anyway, as she said, we do have a wonderful community 🙂
I just went back and looked at the top two photos (OK, I looked at them all 😉 ). I do think it is a great effect, though it seems like a lot of street light, even if those are 5 second photos! Still, very cool photos.
Another thought – from the moment I saw this one it seemed fitting for a Disney Princess. Of course it has to be the right type of princess! One who says, “When I sang ‘Some Day My Prince Will Come’ I was thinking more ‘Purple Rain’ than ‘blue blood,” as she kicks Prince Charming out in favor of the homeless minstrel 😉
Thanks Trent!
Yeah.. I live on a brightly lit, noisy busy street. It’s a major “Crosstown” street, and is one of the original main streets of Ye Olde Toronto.
I’m used to the lights and traffic. However, 3 of the corners now have eateries – a MacDonalds, a Taco place and a Greek place, and they all have annoyingly LOUD heating and ventilation systems.
I’ve actually put up sound blankets used in filming and recordings on some of the windows.
The song is from “Snow White”.
Yeah…I’m not big on Prince Charmings.
Lol… and as I married a musician..a Minstrel works for me!
Fab comment, Trent, and thank you for looking again! 🤗
About 5 years ago I started wearing an eye mask when I sleep – I need pitch dark! Curtains help, but… The noise, though, would be awful. My first two years of college were right above a very popular and noisy bar. I never did get used to it. “Industrial” noise of a ventilation system is better than a loud bar, but just barely.
I just looked up Snow White and see that there is a live action version coming out this year (2025). Prince Charming does not make an appearance, the male lead is some guy named Jonathan. I hope he is more “Purple Rain” than blue blood 😉
Oh, I think Victorian Sonnet may well be your best art gown yet! In addition to being absolutely stunning, the history that went into it makes it extra special. Brava!!!!!
Some of the fabrics she used, Liz, are over 120 years old. I was so touched by the dedication, and to see these heirlooms transformed and given a second life made me choke up. So beautiful. Resa put together a stunning post. Thanks for taking a look! Happy New Year!
You’re welcome, Diana! Happy New Year!!
Liz and Diana.. it’s a beautiful thing all around. & I’m thrilled you guys like the Sonnet.
So many rules!
I know. Sonnets are challenging – way too hard for me. 🙂 🙂
😘
You are right, Liz!
VS is extra special. I was thrilled when I opened the boxes from Diana and saw all of that antique lace and linen.
Thank you for this lovely comment!
Lol! What does one say to Brava?
Olé!?
:D:D:D
Liz,
I’m in your SPAM! Free me!
I was by yesterday, for your New Year post. I liked and commented, but the comment is not there, so I must be in your Spam folder.
I emailed you. as well, so whichever you get first……
Thank you!
Resa
Thank you for letting me know, Resa! I just set you free and responded to your comment,
YAHOO!!!!
Thank you Liz!
You’e welcome, Resa!
This gown and the making of it is a fascinating way to introduce Diana’s book, Resa. The gown is gorgeous and we can see how much work went into it. Thanks for sharing this beautiful post. 🐂
Resa kept me in the loop, John, as she worked on the gown, but I was still blown away by the post – all that detailed work, the sonnet, the photos. She’s amazing. I have to say, I’m more excited about this post than my launch. Lol. Happy New Year, my friend.
Happy New year to you as well.
🎉
🐂
Lol! I’ll be at the launch!
Hey, my next post on Art Gowns will be a pre launch for John’s new book. I’m drawing Cloud Wear! 🕊🤍
Oh, that’s cool. I didn’t know that John has a book coming out. My kindle is ready for it. Congrats to John.
Thank you, dear John!
It’s my pleasure and thrill and joy to share Victorian Sonnet.
I love it when the work is done, and I get to share. 🐂 🐂 O🥦
The next post on this blog is weeks away, and it will be the one for your new book. It’s all so exciting!
Can’t wait.
Pingback: Resa Transforms Heirlooms into an Exquisite Gown | Myths of the Mirror
That is beyond impressive. How beautiful we-all used to look!
Very frilly back in the day, Jacqui – lace everywhere. What Resa did with all these little pieces of history is way beyond anything my imagination could dream up. ❤
🤍🤍🤍
Yes, besides all the design and embellishment
OOPS. Darn that send button!
Besides all the design and embellishment, there was no commercially defined image of a beautiful woman.
All women were beautiful in each their own way.
Now… Botox, plastic surgery… well we all now that beauty became a commercialized industry, far from the “eyes of beholders” it once was.
Thank you for checking out the post, Jacqui, and your lovely comment!
Good Morning, Resa. I was all choked up this morning when I read this post. Your kindness, all the detailed work, the beautiful sonnet, the dedication, and then the photos…. I’m blown away. ❤
I loved the peek into your creative process and the choices you made. Then the stunning poem. I had no idea you were also a wonderful poet on top of all your other talents (and sonnets aren’t easy poems to write). The photos are amazing – everything about them. You outdid yourself. ❤
I’m going to email a link to all my family members here in the US and in Holland, and I have no doubt that they’ll be touched. I knew from the moment I offered you the fabrics that I’d made the right decision, even if they sat in a closet or got parcelled out to different projects. I never expected a Victorian Sonnet. ❤
Oh, and thanks for sharing the book. Lol. Huge hugs to you my friend.
❤ ❤ ❤ ❤
Dear Diana,
Wow, what a fab project this has been.
From the day I opened the boxes, to last night when I clicked the “Schedule” button, it’s been one long joy. 💖
On top of it all, the furnace broke on the night of the Solstice. It was -18C. 🥶We were almost 4 days with no heat, and getting guys to come fix it over the holidays was a crazy and expensive experience.
I didn’t get much done, as you can imagine.
Still, I chipped away at this post, chose and edited photos and wrote that Sonnet. In a way, it kept me warm. 🤗
The Sonnet… well… let me just say the stress of publishing that when so many out here are amazing writers was mucho intimidating. (Lost some sleep over it all)😬
I am so honoured that you like this enough to share with all your family. Wow!
I am totally excited for them to see this. I hope it brings them some joy, as it seems to have brought you.
Your generosity of faith in sending me these laces and linens was inspiring. Thank you.
Sharing your new book was an added “hurrah” after everything else. The serendipity was like a magic. The whole thing is like a magic spell.
That you are so happy, makes me happy!
Love to you, Diana! (and hugs and kisses) … and music!
❤️🌹🕊🤍💖🌟
It was magical to me too, Resa. I sent the link out this morning and I know that everyone will be excited about it. I had fun yesterday preparing my part with those old photos, in hopes of sending everyone your way. I love the idea of the two of us working on our posts at the same time, 2000 miles apart. ❤ ❤
And your poem, wowza! I can imagine that you were nervous, but it beautifully captured the story of this gown. It was just lovely and I'm glad you didn't chicken out. Haha.
So sorry to hear about the furnace. That's COLD, but glad you're warm now. Sending hugs and kisses and magic your way for the new year, my friend. ❤
Yes.. 2,000 miles apart, yet in a project sync.
Your post was a wonder to read, Diana.
I loved seeing images of the women I was talking about, how the linens and laces looked back then.
I do believe I instinctively captured a spirit.
I hope lots come from your blog. I really want as many as possible to see this this heirloom creation.
I think I’ll post something on Blue Sky tomorrow.
Stupid furnace, I was cold, cramped, couldn’t get much done, massively inconvenienced, but I was not angry or self sad.
I am warm, and this post has made me even warmer. Hugs and kisses back to you, Diana!
You must be excited for your launch!!!
🕊🤍💙
Oh. I’ll post on Blue Sky too, and repost your post! Lol. ❤ ❤ ❤
And you totally captured the spirit of the women. I felt it immediately.
Yay!!!🕊🤍💖
Diana,
Congratulations!
I was just on your blog and commented.
It must have gone into the dreaded SPAM!
Please free me!
I sent an email as well, so whichever is first.
Thank you!!!!!!!
I’ll check spam. That is annoying, isn’t it? Ugh.
YES! 😬 Thank you! 🤗
How elegant and stunning! I love how you put this all together, Resa. Diana’s family heirlooms are amazing. I crochet doilies so I got a good chuckle from Diana’s post listing out all the contents she sent you. Your poem was the perfect accompaniment to this gorgeous gown. 🥳 Happy New Year of creativity.
I was honored that Resa was willing to take all this old stuff, Colleen, and then when she said she’d make a gown out of it, I was doubly honored. Today, I’m just plain old blown away and emotional. And did you know Resa was a poet? Her sonnet is an extra special treat. Thanks for the lovely comment, my friend. Happy New Year.
I’m ticked pink Victorian ruffles over the response to this post!
Ya know – I should have figured I was a poet, my feet are such Longfellows! 😂
LOL. And you’re a comedian too!
Lots of people are still on a break, but my post will be front and center until Jan 2, so hopefully, between us, more visits!
Thank you Colleen!
This is a lovely comment.
What an honour that led to massive inspiration Diana’s gift turned out to be.
Yes, it was doily city here for awhile. Now they are all backed onto fabric, which should actually preserve them a bit longer.
The poem… that was the scary part, as I am not a writer.
Happy New Year of creativity to you, too, Colleen!
What an amazing gown and process Resa. And how beautiful that it is woven with love from you, Diana, and her family. Happy New Year!
I feel like I won the “happy lottery,” Brad. When I sent Resa the materials, I had no expectations at all. It just felt good to know that they might have a second life someday. What Resa decided to do with it is so far beyond my imagination that I’m almost speechless. So beautiful. Thanks for swinging by, my friend. ❤
Yeah, thanks again, Brad! HNY – 🌟🎉
It’s a wonderful story and gifting Diana. I wish I had found homes for more of my families stuff at Mom’s house. Sadly too much was thrown away due to a rushed closing. Blessings in the New Year! 💓
I’m so sorry to hear that, Brad. We threw away a dumpster-load of stuff, and I carted a lot to Goodwill. But I tried to pack up most of the heirlooms so I could go through them, take photos, and see who wanted what. It helped that I live close by and could take my time. I hope you were able to keep some things from your mom that hold precious memories for you. ❤
Yes, I kept what mattered to me, but there were so many nice things that didn’t find homes and my brother ran out of time, so they went in a dumpster instead of being donated.
My parents had moved to a senior apartment, so everything was in storage. That made it a little easier than what you faced. I’m glad you saved the pieces that mattered to you. ❤
Sigh! I’m sure you have enough, and will always remember!
Yes, thank you Resa.
🤍🕊
Thank you Brad!
Yes, definitely made with love. The heritage in Victorian Sonnet is mind blowing.
What a treat and honour this project has been!
HAPPY NEW YEAR 🌟🎉🕊🤍
Yes Resa, it’s an amazing story and repurposing. Blessings in the New Year! 🌟🎉
🌟🎉
That is such a beautiful and amazing gown, Resa. You are so talented. A new Judy? How cool is that?
Resa is beautiful and amazing through and through, Tim. 🙂 Happy New Year.
Happy New year.
HNY – 🌟🎉
Thank you dear Tim!
It was a fabulous experience making the gown with all the antique laces and linens.
I’m listening to Winter Moon as I type. (no percussion)
Wow! It’s absolutely beautiful.
YA! The new Judy is fab. I really needed one. The old Judy was getting dilapidated. I still adore her, though.
My friend got caught in an Amazon scam. She realized late, but in time to not get 100% ripped off.
However, she ended up with a $2000.00 credit at Amazon., could not get her money back.
She figured she might not spend all that $$$ for years, so bought me the Judy!
Judy has a very modern figure! Fabulous!!!!!!!!! xo
AmaScama. Scammers are so annolying and Amazon is annoying that it gives you credit insted of cach back. It’s not like Amazon is short on cash. A judy with modren girly measurments should be helpful. I remember you had go from a 6 to a 12 to fit my gown on a madern woman.
Amascam is right!
Ahh, the old days when a thief actually had to get off their butt and rob a bank. (facetious)
Yes…actually she was more of a 14-16, but with a little know how and a tad of restyling it’s amazing what can be done.
Belle Grâce looked like Grace Kelly on Judy and on Robin. She is gorgeous.
I found your images and descriptions simply fabulous.
Thank you for sharing the fruit of your artistic work, along with the beautiful sonnet dedicated to Diana!
Happy New Year to you too 🌟🌹🌟
Thank you for checking out Resa’s stunning gown. She’s a marvel and I was touched by her beautiful work with the fabrics, her stunning sonnet, and the kind dedication. Happy New year, Luisa. ❤
Many thanks to YOU❣️❣️❣️
It was a real pleasure to read your kind reply
🤗🌟
🌟🎉🕊🤍
Thank. you, Luisa! It was and still is a most rewarding project. I do love the gown.
I never had such amazing pieces to work with.
Thank you about the Sonnet!
It’s the first time I wrote one.
HAPPY NEW YEAR 🌟🎉🕊🤍 to you, dear Luisa!
…. and you wrote a beautiful poem!
I wish you much happiness in the coming year. 🌹🎈🌹
I wish you much happiness too, Luisa! 🌟🤗🕊🤍🌹
This is breathtaking dear Resa! I was at Diana’s and swept away by her photographs and takes of ancestry and childhood. Such a beautiful gifted lady. As soon as I read of her precious treasure of materials I thought of all you could do with them and sure enough in the next lines she writes about you.
This is surely one of your most beautiful creations. These treasures of Diana’s will live forever in this gown.
Your poem is beautiful dear poetess. ❤️
I feel like I’m floating in a dream, Holly. Resa’s gown feels personal to me, a tribute to the generations of women in my family going back over 150 years. I’m so honored that she created this exquisite gown most of all, but also crafted a amazing sonnet and captured it all in breathtaking photos. Her talent and kindness blow me away. I’ve been teary all morning. Thanks so much for your wonderful comment, and wishing you a new year abounding with beauty. ❤
You have gifted each other in such a beautiful way. I loved that you shared your heritage with us ( I always thought there was some Indonesia there ) . Your ancestors are lovely people and these treasures of cloth and silks and lace are breathtaking. Resa has created such a beautiful gown , I’m speechless! The poem brought tears to my eyes too. So moving.
Happy New Year dear Diana, to you and yours.
❤️
My great-great-great-grandmother was Indonesian and she married a Dutch sea captain. I have one portrait of her. Resa’s gown honors a family of women from around the world.
This is so cool! xx
My mom told me she was the daughter of the local Sultan. Whether that’s true or a fairytale, I have no idea.
So, another piece of the tale unfolds. You know, with all your stories you write, it could be true. I’m thinking like a descendent of Scheherazade .
When I was a kid, that’s what I pictured too. Lol. But I think back then, (must have been about 1800), there were lots of local sultans. More like village chiefs. I wish I knew more about her.
I understand why!
I know very little of my grandmother’s family. She was a boat child (Polish) around 1905, her mother died while she was making the crossing. Her little brother was sent on the ship with her, and died on the way across.
That’s so heartbreaking, Resa. Family histories are fascinating, often full of tragedies and victories and strength most of all. I wish you knew more about her family.
Yes, it would be nice to know more. Still, I must say the love I got from my grandmother (baba) was the most special I ever got from anyone, even my mother; who loved me a lot.
Beautiful, Resa. What a lovely gift. Much better than stuff. ❤
xo🥲xo🤗
XO❤️🤗XO
Diana and Holly!
This is turning out to be a wonderful finale for 2024, for me.
2024 was a bit insane… so, maybe putting this giant scoop of beauty on it will help herald in a new and wonderful year.
Big hugs to both of you! 💙
I feel the same way about 2024, Resa. It’s wonderful to enter the new year with some breathtaking beauty and kindness. ❤ ❤ ❤
Agree! xoxo
Dearest Holly,
I was at Diana’s too! I knew I was working with heirlooms, but seeing the images, of the women I was taking about, added another dimension to this project.
It really is an honour.
I hope one day someone will get married in this gown!
The Sonnet – well, I was a bit intimidated to post it with all the wonderful writers out here… ummm… like you!
Still, it came out okay, in spite of the RULES! Boy… lots to be said about free verse.
Adore you! xoxo❤️🐭🐭❤️xoxo
It’s all these things that you mention that make this so special and a real treasure. Imagine someone getting married in this gorgeous gown. It would be such an honor and I know it is the most precious piece of artwork ever. You’ve done something very special with some treasured heirlooms of Diana’s. I’m speechless really.
Your poetry is stunningly beautiful, I think you’re a poet of the highest caliber along with your many other gifts.
Adore you dear Meece,
❤️🐭🐭❤️
❤️🐭🐭❤️
I’m so happy you are in my life!
The entire experience has been a groove. (Still trying to bring back Groovy)
This Art Gown is so replete with romance and genteel history that I’ll have to do a 180 on the next gown. ….. contemporary – humorous – biting.
I’ll need to consult with you on my idea!
Thank you again about the sonnet! Sigh..
xoxoxoxoxoxoxo
Dear Resa, having you in my life is a pure joy. I’m all a twitter about putting our heads together on your idea which is always exciting and such fun.
Your sonnet proves what I’ve always known. You have the heart and soul of a poet who has mastered the art of words.
xo🕊️❤️xo
Yahoo! And Joni too! I’m working on some drawings for John’s new book pre-review. Then I’d like to get down with another portrait!
The art of words, thank you Meece! Perhaps an old fashioned education with no AI and automated spell chuck up has something to do with that?
xo🕊️❤️xo
Utterly spectacular and what a perfect collaboration! It’s great to see those old laces become the work of art they deserve to be!
Thank you for stopping by Resa’s, Camilla. I love it that Resa gave all these old heirlooms a second life, and no ordinary one, but as artwork. They’ve been sitting in bins for up to 100 years and they had very little future otherwise. I can’t imagine a better use or a more creative person to bring them to life again. Happy New Year, my friend.
Yeah, Happy New Year! 🌟🕊🤍💖🎉
Thanks Camilla!
It was a joy working with these treasures!
🤗🌟🕊🤍
What an incredible talent. I am amazed at this creation from an assortment of materials and items. How special for Diana to see her family heirlooms put to such good use. The memories live on.
I’m truly honored, Darlene, and so appreciative of Resa’s kindness, tender care, and hard work. I never imagined when I sent her all the fabrics, that she would run with it and create this gorgeous gown, and this beautiful post and sonnet to go with it. It’s beyond my wildest dreams. She’s a dream. Thanks for swingin by and Happy New Year!
She is a dream for sure. Happy New Year to you as well. xo
Happy New Year!! 🌟🎉
Hello Darlene,
You are right, the memories live on.
It’s interesting you say that, as there are lots of lovely pics. Perhaps in 100 years from now, more daughters of the daughters will be able to say… this is made from Great great great great great… grandmothers’ etc.
Thank you!
What a lovely gesture for Diana to send you the material. The gown, and your poetry are beautiful. I enjoyed viewing the pictures and I tried my best to follow the process. This really is an amazing joint effort of generosity and creativity. Well done, all.
I enjoyed following the process too, Dan. Resa gave me little peeks along the way, but seeing it all laid out, step by step, was enthralling for me. And her photos are exquisite. The generosity was a no-brainer. Resa’s creativity deserves all the praise. Happy New Year!
It must feel good to see generations of fabric come alive gain.
A bazillion times better than just having it sit in a bin for another 100 years.
This has been a most fulfilling project!
HNY! 🤗🎉
Thank you, Dan!
You are right. It is a fabulous team effort. I was very inspired by these heirloom pieces.
Thank you for taking the time to read! I appreciate that.
I got positive feedback the first time I incorporated the process into an Art Gowns post, so I’ve kept it up.
I guess you’ll be running out to make a gown now! 😉🤭
No, but I have a pile of wood that my father-in-law gave me before he passed away. My daughter and I have been making some special projects out of “The Pile.”
That sounds fabulous. Have you shared any of the projects or ???
So cool that you are doing it with your daughter.
This is the first thing that I made. The stool was adapted to work with the material. I made it for my wife, since her father gave me the wood.
That’s wonderful, and how thoughtful, Dan. The intention behind the work makes it all the more precious.
Agree!
It’s fabulous!
Keep collecting pics of the projects! it will make a cool post.
Thank you Dan!
We’ll visit the Pile again after it warms up.
Cool!
Resa – I was truly inspired by your blog post about how you and Diana honoured Diana’s family legacies. Diana, the treasures you shared—your great grandmother’s, grandmother’s, and mother’s lacy blouses, filly bed linens, silk tablecloths, and mosquito netting—are beautiful reminders of the past. Resa, the creation of the Victorian Sonnet gown is a stunning tribute that bridges history with contemporary design. Your collaboration not only preserves these cherished memories but also breathes new life into them, showcasing how the past can inform and enrich our present and future.
This is a serendipitous post for me. Don and I were in a discussion about creativity, remembering, archiving, etc. As we head into a new year of possibilities, I believe that we must be committed to embracing our personal creativity in whatever form this may take. Even more important – we must share our creativity with others. Resa and Diana – I was beyond thrilled to read both of your blog posts this morning – your collaboration is exactly what I believe is required to share light in dark places. You have energized me with your creative endeavours.
Thank you for sharing this meaningful journey with us!
What a lovely thing to say, Rebecca. I love these lines:
“Resa, the creation of the Victorian Sonnet gown is a stunning tribute that bridges history with contemporary design. Your collaboration not only preserves these cherished memories but also breathes new life into them, showcasing how the past can inform and enrich our present and future.”
My part in this was very small, but it was made care and a lot of heart. It’s clear from the stunning outcome that Resa invested a lot of tender care, time, and creativity into the gown. And her sonnet, Rebecca … it captured the journey of these pieces of history, from my family’s past into their new life. I love that.
Hugs, my friend.
Happy New Year, Diana. See you in 2025! Here we go….
Yes, we do …. ❤
Dear Rebecca,
Thank you for your most lovely comment, and for being such a positive and intelligent voice in our blogging community!
It’s true, I knew I was bringing the past into the future now, that I was connecting the dots of ancestry in a creative way. That knowledge was inspirational. I can never thank Diana enough for the gift that sparked all of that.
A meaningful journey… thank you! BIG HUGS
I was over to Chasing Art, and will return. Instead of catching up over the holidays, I am more behind than ever. The furnace broke at – 18C and we were 4 days without heat.
So, now I’m back in the saddle, and a fresh New Year is upon us! I’m sure I will be saying this a lot over the next 10 days:
🌟HAPPY NEW YEAR! 🌟
A brilliant post weaving together creating a visual masterpiece, writing beautiful prose, and promoting the book by a friend. Although I wouldn’t look good in that gown, I’m stunned by its beauty. Cheers to you for your creativity. Clink!
Probably wouldn’t fit you anyway, Frank. Lol. Resa put together a gorgeous event here on her blog and I’m honored that my ancestor’s heirlooms provided the inspiration for so much creativity. My heart is full!
🥰
I’m sure Resa has mastered alterations.
Ha ha ha. I’m sure she has.
🤭😂
Thank you dear Frank!
This is a very satisfying project, and she is a beauty!
You wouldn’t look good in the gown? I’m sure if you put it on, that it would not effect your eyesight. You would be able to look around and see things just as clearly as you would wearing anything else.
Cheers! 🥂
Clink
Mind blowingly beautiful! Absolutely fabulous…
Thanks for swinging by, Annette. Resa is amazingly talented and kind. What a combo! Happy New Year.
🌟🤗
Thank you, Annette!
Happy New Year! 🤍🌟🎉
Resa, my jaw is on the deck. These are absoluely stunning. The more so because of the age of the fabric. You are just amazing xxxxxxxxxxxxx
Isn’t it cool. Some of the pieces, Shey (the blouses in particular) are about 150 years old. They were pretty fragile, so I’m delighted she was able to use them at all. I think every gown Resa makes is out of this world gorgeous, but of course, this one means a lot to me. Thanks for swinging by and Happy New Year. Hugs. ❤
🌟🕊🤍
Dear Shey,
Thank you! Victorian Sonnet is a beauty. I’m thrilled with what the inspiration yielded.
Once I washed the pieces, and they did not dissolve in the water, I was on my way.
Seriously, these types of fabrics don’t exist anymore. It’s not just the purity of the cotton and linen, but the weaves are dense.
I have never seen in all my years experience a cheesecloth or gauze or netting in a weave like the mosquito netting. It’s amazing. We have gained with technology, but we have also lost with it.
Again, thank you dear Shey, and I hope your jaw is okay! xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
Breathtakingly beautiful! Thank you for sharing your art and the process.
Thanks for the lovely comment, Michele. I had sneak peeks into what Resa was doing with the fabrics, but didn’t see the process until this post. I loved “seeing” her creativity at work here. She’s amazing and I’m delighted with the result, to say the least. Happy New Year!
You’re very welcome and thank you! Best wishes to you in the new year! 🙏🏻
🎉🌟
HAPPY NEW YEAR! 🌟🎉
Hello Michele,
Thank you! I’m so fortunate that Diana sent me these treasures. What a joy it was putting them all together!
That joy is evident in the attention you give your craft. Thank you for sharing!
Pleasure!
Hello Michele!
Happy New Year, and sorry to bother, but I just left a comment on your Fiery Finish post, and it’s not there. I’ve checked back several times, now, and still not there.
Would you be so kind as to check your SPAM folder and free me if I’m in there. If I am not that would be good to know, too. It has happened on several blogs now, and it might come to dealing with WP.
Thank You!!!
Hi Resa! Thank you for letting me know. I will check post haste. It happens to me all the time. You’re welcome.
I adore you for this!
💖🕊🤍🥇🌟
Very kind of you to write. Thank you! 💖
To see cherished family heirlooms transformed into such a beautiful creation brought tears to my eyes. Resa, your talents, from your initial vision to the meticulous construction, and then the display of the final one-of-a-kind gown are spectacular. If I ever get invited to the Queen’s Ball or to a coronation of the Fairy King, I know who I will ask to make my gown.
Thank you for sharing your story and the amazing results with us, Diana.
I’ve been pretty teary myself, Janis. I really had no idea that Resa would create a gown out of everything I sent her. I just wanted her to have it as part of her supplies since it was just languishing in a storage bin. I was also awed by her vision and the detailed work. A master at work. Yes, when the Fairy King’s coronated, I’ll ask to borrow this one. She’ll have to hem it though. Lol. Thanks for the visit and the great comment.
No worries..Hems’r’Us!
LOL
Resa and Diana, this is a perfect blend of legacy and artistry to make a beautiful new creation. I’m impressed!
Isn’t that cool, Audrey? I recognized the pieces that Resa used, and it was magical to see them transform. And I just love her creativity. Everything she touches is beautiful. Thanks for swinging by and Happy New Year!
🎉🌟
Thank you Audrey! Victorian Sonnet was a joy to work on!
Happy New Year!
You’re welcome, Resa, and Happy New Year to you as well!
🕊🤍
lovely!
wishing you all the best for 2025! 🔔🥂🎉
Thanks for stopping by, Graham, and Happy New Year.
👌👍🌟✨💫
Back at you, Graham!
HAPPY NEW YEAR 🌟🤗🕊🤍🎉
& Thank you!
🙏🙇♂️🌟✨💫
Just wow! I came over from Diana’s post. What an amazing idea to gift Resa with the materials as she knows how to put them to beautiful use. What a magnificent recreation of time you made Resa. Simply gorgeous. Hugs to both 😍💜🧡 xxx
Asking Resa if she’d like the fabrics and laces was a no-brainer, Debby. It had been sitting in storage for decades, much for over 100 years. I’m honored and touched that she decided to make a gown and give these heirlooms a second life. It’s beautiful beyond anything I could have imagined. ❤ Happy New Year!
Yay!!! VS is a beauty, and I’m thrilled with all the fabulous responses!
I am too. So fun, and I think everyone feels how special VS is. And you are. ❤
🕊🤍💙
❤
You had the best idea Diana! Resa is a wizard with fabric ❤ Happy New Year my friend. ❤
❤
Thank you Debby!!
It was an honour to work with these heirloom fabrics, and VS is a beautiful girl!
HUGS!!! 🌟🤗🕊🤍🌹
Hugs and Happy New Year to you Resa dear. ❤ xoxo
🕊🤍💖💙🎉✨
My goodness, Diana’s heirlooms ended up in the right hands. Resa, you have worked magic, and your beautiful creations have given new life to the fabrics and laces. I think Diana’s grandmother would be very happy.
I knew from the very start that Resa was the perfect person to have the heirlooms, Jennie. Whatever she chose to do with them, it would be so much better than letting them sit and age in a bit in a shed! And then she decided to make a gown with them. It feels like a dream, and the long line of women in my family feeled honored, I’m certain of it. Happy New Year, my friend.
When you know, you know! And clearly Resa is the perfect recipient of your heirloom. Yes, this is so much better than just sitting in a box and age. I’m so glad it feels like a dream. Your family women in heaven are smiling! Happy New Year, my friend!
I’m sure they are, Jennie. Thank you.
You’re welcome! 😍
🤗🎉
Yes, Happy New Year, Jennie!
Jennie,
That is a lovely thing to say, thank you!
Yes, it is nice to think Diana’s grandmother.. mother… great grandmother all would be happy with this.
“Art remembers us”
You are welcome! I love your art quote.
Ahh, thank you!
I came up with that during a podcast interview. I have included it in the tagline of my other blog.
It is perfect!
Oh I have so been looking forward to seeing this wonderful design and creation Resa… I saw it come in via my phone app.. but wanted to wait until I came on my computer to see the full screen version of your amazing work of art..
I had lost you in my notifications so at last sitting in the Reader I finally scrolled down to meet you.. 🙂
Absolutely AMAZING work… Your poem too Resa expresses perfectly the love you have poured into this wonderful Victorian Sonnet of pure perfection..
I love how you described the making of her… and the tender care of handwashing the lace pieces…
I also know exactly what you meant when you said it was like a good book, you just do not want it to end… I recently felt like that to a piece of sewing I did.. 🙂
Have a wonderful creative harmonious 2025 Resa and beyond my friend..
EnJOY ….
Much love .. Sue xx ❤ 💖✨🙏🥂
I have a few sneak peeks at the gown as Resa was making it, Sue. But it wasn’t until I saw the end result that the tears started. When I sent her my old family heirlooms, I never imagined she would transform them, not all at once! And the poem on top of all that. Resa’s talent shines and her kindness is stunning about all. Happy New Year.
The antique lace at last Diane brought to life with Resa”s love and patience. No wonder the tears flowed. Her poetic talent also amazing.
So beautiful that there are many of us who live in our creative flow..
Let’s hope and pray 🙏 2025 we can create through more loving projects that bring us collective peace. Xx ❤️
🌟🕊🤍
Happy New Year, Sue! 🕊🌟
Dear Sue,
Thank you bazillions for reading this “awaited” post. It is so cool that you were actually looking forward to it!
True, I did pour the energy of love into this creation. The inspiration offered by Diana’s gift was “wind beneath my wings”.
Thank you also for the lovely words about Victorian Sonnet and the making of her.
Yes… the book is finished. At least I’m getting to discuss it with poeple for a bit.
I look forward to seeing what you have been making, if you are sharing. i don’t see a notification, bit I’ll pop by anyway. Could just be a WP thing.
Much Love to you Sue!
🕊🤍🌟💙
HAPPY NEW YEAR!
🎉💖💥
Yes I posted yesterday, and it contains the embroidery work I have been doing
Happy new year Resa, and Bravo again on your amazing skills. And congratulations on the up and coming book xx 😘 ❤️
🌟🎉🕊🤍
Resa, you have truly outdone yourself…AGAIN! What a gorgeous gown and the meaning behind it only adds to it’s beauty. Congratulations on this work of art. I love all the photographs. ❤️
Yes, Resa outdid herself again, Gigi. I don’t think she’s capable of doing otherwise, to be honest. And the heart she put into it came through so beautifully. Happy New Year.
🌟🕊🤍
Thank you dear Gi! Agree, the meaning behind it adds to the beauty.
Your comment is helping me with the philosophy behind the next gown, wherein “the beauty will add to the meaning”.
xoxoxo🤍🕊❤️
Magical!
No kidding, Cindy. Resa created magic. Hugs.
Thank you, Cindy, and I do agree!
Happy New Year! 🌟🎉
These are treasures in every way. Diana is so lucky to inherit such history, in family, photos and fabric. And Resa, you made from it gowns of dreams. (K)
I think there’s a hoarding gene in my family, Kerfe. Lol. Part of it was the result of WWII, specifically in the Pacific. I do feel lucky that so many unique items were saved, but the fabrics, especially, would have languished if not for Resa. I’m just blown away and so grateful that they found a second life. Hugs and Happy New Year!
I don’t even have photos from my father’s side of the family. Hoarding those (and labeling them, so many of my mother’s are not labeled) is a wonderful gift to leave your family.
Happy New Year!
I don’t have much from my father’s side either, Kerfe. They were relatively simple people from Vermont. After my mom, died, I tried to organize her genealogy “bin” as best I could.
My parents discarded so much, but then they moved all the time, and I have followed suit, so I get it.
Agree!
Happy New Year!
You are right! Diana is rich, steeped in her matriarchal history.
Some of us a bit more lost to the past. I suppose this is a reason all of the genealogy sites are so popular.
Thank you, yes, it is a Gown of Dreams!
It is!
🌟🕊🤍💖
Congrats to Diana on her book.
Dear Resa, congratulations to you on this masterpiece. Thanks for all the photos and descriptions of the stages along the way.
I had not heard the term Berths collar before, but it’s perfect on the gown by any name. The three part train is a stunning finish. But my favorite thing is how you brought the bodice together in the back, and that it’s a contrasting color– without being too bold. Also the button trim on the front is just the right touch.
Your artistic talent and technical skill takes my breath away. As a former seamstress I know what I’m talking about. Big hugs.
Thanks for swinging by Resa’s, Teagan. The bodice is fantastic, isn’t it? And the buttons are a gorgeous touch. And to think it was my grandmother’s tablecloth still amazes me. Resa is a visionary and artist through and through. Hugs to you and Happy New Year!
Thank you Teagan!
Yes, the finishes were a joy, after months of hand sewing all the seams and the edges on the tails.
The hand-made self covered buttons were more serendipity, harvested off of an old wedding gown.
Interesting that you say the blue is not too bold. As it is a jacquard, the right side is a lot brighter/bluer. I used the whiter side, for just the reason you mention.
It’s terrific that you are a former seamstress, and so can relate in more depth to what I talk about and am doing.
Thank you from my heart for coming by, and reading and looking with such depth!
HUGS! xx
I meant to add that you did a great job of photographing the gown. It couldn’t have been easy. Very cool about the buttons. Happy New Year. ❤
Thank you dear Teagan!
Happy New Year! 🌟🎉🕊🤍
Hi Resa, I’m so sorry for arriving late to this phenomenal party, but all I can think to say is “WOW!” again and again! Your gown is stunning beyond all adjectives and so special that ‘she’ was magically stitched together with Diana’s sentimental materials. You are so talented! Congrats to you and Diana for this gorgeous masterpiece, and again to Diana on her new book. I’m waiting for the paperback to come out in a few days.
Hugs to you both! And Happy 2025! ❤️🎉✨
Dear Lauren,
No apologies, ever! Anyway, you are on a break, and had asked me to let you know when I posted the gown. Seriously you beat me to it by an hour.
It has turned out to be a very busy post.
I’m happy for that because of all the heritage that is imbibed in VS.
I can’t thank you enough for remembering to pop by!
Thank you for your lovely comment about the gown and everything that symbiotically came together with Diana and me. Lol… kind of like “Cora’s Quest” post between us.
I just love how this all happens!
I truly look forward to all the wonderful happenings we will share in the new year.
I adore you Lauren!
HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!! (to you and yours!)
🕊🤍💖🎉✨
You’re so welcome, Resa, and I love how it all came together too! Amazing collaboration between you and Diana! And I look forward to the same, and I adore you! Happy New Year’s Eve and wishing you a spectacular, creative 2025! 💖🎉🎉💖
Yahoo! And to you too! 🌟🎉🤍🕊💖🥂
Resa, I clicked too soon! I forgot to mention that I loved reading ‘The Making of’ and your beautiful poem! Kudos to you and Diana! 💖🔆🎉🌷🩵
The “Making Of” was brilliant, wasn’t it? I was familiar with all the pieces, Lauren, and it was utterly fascinating to get a peek into Resa’s creative process and how her vision for Victorian Sonnet came together. Like watching Rembrandt chose his colors and paint a masterpiece. And then she wrote that poem! Amazing. Thank you so much for the kind visit and comment. Happy New Year and Happy Reading!
Yay! Re: The Making Of.
You are both so cool!
❤
It is brilliant, Diana, and then she wrote the awesome poem! Another Wow! Happy New Year to you, and Here’s to another year of wonderful creativity and lots of writing and reading! 💖🎉🥂
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Thanks Lauren!
Yes, the “Making Of” has become an integral part of these posts. I was surprised when people said how they liked reading about that.
The Sonnet… so much structure… and in the end ..I wrote a poem!!!! LOL!
🕊🤍💖💙🎉✨xoxoxo
You did! And a marvelous poem. ❤
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I’m not surprised, Resa! Your “Making Of” reminds me of reading an author’s interview, learning more about him or her. It’s fascinating! And the Sonnet, I’ve only written one Sonnet and it was a funny one years ago. 🙂 But you wrote it beautifully! Hugs and Happy New Year, dear friend!
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Then, as you know writing a Sonnet is somewhat challenging because of all the rules.
Anyway, it was a must for the Art Gowns’ post, once I named her Victorian Sonnet.
HNY! 🌟🎉🤍🕊💖🥂
Yes, challenging to put it mildly! And perfect for Victorian Sonnet. Happy New Year, dear friend! xoxoxoxo
xoxoxo
Wow, what an amazing endeavor! Resa, your Victorian Sonnett was exquisitely written, and I loved your dedication. Diane, congratulations on finding such gossamer-type, eloquent pieces of material, not always an What a brilliant idea to make something so gorgeous and delicate to coincide with the release of your new book!!
The dress, well, how does one describe it? I am an immeasurable fan of John William Waterhouse, and I immediately saw how stunning this dress would have looked on a canvas painted by him. Every piece of material shipped was so lovely. I, too, was such a fan of the back of the dress and the way it kept the eye on the lower back.
Thank you, Diane and Resa, for this captivating example of what two creatives can do when they get together. BRAVO for capturing such a time gone by, Resa, one I used to long to have lived in until I would bring myself back down to the reality of how little choice women born during that era had. Yet the clothing – Oh, how I loved the delicate fabrics, hats, and gloves that women wore. You captured something eminently special in this dress. Hugs to both you ladies, Joni
Thank you for the wonderful comment, Joni. The timing of the gown and book was happenstance, I think, but what a wonderful coincidence. Resa’s Victorian Sonnets (gown and poem) just blew me away, and honestly, my part in this was small. I just sent the beautiful stuff to Resa in a moment of pure gratefulness, and she did al the work! She is so wonderfully creative and everything she touches is beautiful. The second life these items have found is heartwarming and so special to me.
Yes, yes to Waterhouse! I love his work and you’re right that he could have painted this gown. John Singer Sargent too. He loved beautiful clothes on intelligent women. I completely agree with you on the wonderful clothing of the Victorian age, but also that I wouldn’t want to live then. Aside from the difficult realities for women, the lace and wool was itchy! 🙂 🙂 Happy New Year, my friend.
Yes, Victorian beauty came with a price.
Okay, now I have to check out John Singer Sargent!
AND you guys have reminded me that the James Tissot exhibit has just opened at the AGO.
I will however wait until it slows down a bit to go…mid – late January.
Thank you BIG to both!
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Oh. That would be a wonderful exhibit. Another wonderful artist. 🙂
Dear Joni!
Thank you for seeing my gowns as “ART”.
It’s taken a long time for many to accept them as an art, as opposed to clothes.
Of course they can be worn, as a wearable art. The question “What stores sell your gowns” and questions of the like have finally faded from comments.
I am willing to loan, rent or even sell one of my creations for certain events, and of course the person has to be in Toronto to have it fit and altered.. even restyled a bit, as Belle Grace was for a Gala in New York City.
VS was a joy to work on. What a thrill it is to work with heirlooms!
I am going to check out more of John William Waterhouse’s work. I do know the name, and am sure I will recognize his work when I see it. Thank you for that!
What a hoot that Diana and I finished our projects at the same time, and I am able to help announce her new book, coming out in a few days.
Hugs back to you, Joni!!
HAPPY NEW YEAR!
The very best to you and yours!
XO🌟🕊🤍💖🎉
The gown is fantastic! And I love the history involved, too!
Thank you, Kymber. I loved sharing a bit about the origins of the clothing and linens. What Resa created from that history is just stunning. She has some magical talents for sure. Happy New Year.
Happy New Year! 🥳🥂🎉
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Thank you Kymber!
It was a fabulous project to work on.
HAPPY NEW YEAR!
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Happy New Year!!
Oo, what fantastic colors! I love the elegance and story behind this gown!
Thanks, Layla. I loved how Resa shared her steps as well as the thought and inspiration that went into the Victorian Sonnet gown. And what a beautiful poem too. She blew me away. Thanks so much for stopping by to see the results of all her effort.
Thank you, Layla! This for sure was a passion project!
Happy New Year, to you!
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You always somehow manage to outdo your brilliant self and this latest tour de force is just the latest evidence of that. Your gift is the stuff of dreams, and that’s what you create with each new creation; a beautiful dream.
Thanks for taking a look at Resa’s brilliant gown. She didn’t need to use any of the fabrics that I sent her, which makes her Victorian Sonnet even more special. Yes, she’s a master at making beautiful dreams. What a lovely thought. Happy New Year!
What a lovely comment. Thank you so very much for bringing such a positive vibe to one of my last posts of the year.
Happy New Year!
Ha! Sorry, I was reading your comment on my blog and commenting back to you on this blog! LOL.
Resa is such a brilliant artist, and yes, a dream maker.
LOL. I do that too, trust me. 🙂 All good.
Haha!, Thanks D.
Aww, thank you Marc!
I send to you a tour de force MUAH!
Happy New Year! I’m trying to get by everyone’s blog in the few days. However, between the holidays and responses on this post I am more behind than ever.
I will come, and more
MUAH!
Love it!
Happy New Year to you as well Resa. You’ll get to mine when you get to mine, no rush. I’m glad we got to exchange NY wishes.
MUAH!
MUAH!!
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MUAH!!
Absolutely unbelievably stunning. And the pic with the windows silhouetted around the room. So artistic. Really incredible work and story.
Isn’t it gorgeous, Betsy? I love the photos Resa took. My brother (a man) thought it was more than one gown. Lol. But he also recognized some of the fabrics. Thanks for checking out Resa’s spectacular creation. Hugs, and Happy New Year!
My brother (a man) Lol!
Hugs, and Happy New Year to you too!
I know what you mean .. but I’m still laughing about your brother (a man) 😂
Even though he thought it was a bunch of gowns, he still was amazed.
A bunch of gowns 🤣
I know, right? Gotta laugh.
Thank you Ilsa!
The pics with the windows silhouetted were take at night. Every light in the apartment was off.
The light you see is all from street light. (I live on a busy street)
I had to hold still for 4 seconds each shot.
This was a beautiful project to work on, and I’m thrilled you have pointed out the night shots!
Happy New Year! 🌟🕊🤍🎉
HNY to you too. It’s so great that you love what you do and have such a passion and talent for it. Well done!
Thank you!!!
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Oh, that’s so cool. I didn’t realize that it was the street lights through the window. Even that detail is magical.
I was thrilled when I discovered that could happen. This was my first time trying that.
It worked partly because the gown is a big white reflector.
It’s that kind of creativity that blows me away. I would never in a million years think of that.
Know you know, so you don’t have to! Lol!
What a treasure on so many levels, Resa. I hardly know where to begin complimenting you and Diana both. The combination of blog posts with her pictures of the original clothing and the story of how they came to her followed by your magnificent creation and beautiful poem are artistry personified. Thank you for this rare treat. I wonder what will happen to the beautiful dress from here? How long did it take you to come up with the ideas and then to create this? I’m just in awe!
I loved that I could be a part of this creative endeavor, Marsha, though only in a tiny way. I get to celebrate my heritage and see these old heirlooms transformed, but Resa did all the months of meticulous work. I loved getting peeks along the way and seeing her immense talent at work. She has a fascinating way of visualizing possibilities, and then making them happen. That kind of creative talent is amazing to me. I hope someday she does a fashion show. I’d fly to Toronto just to attend.
Thanks for stopping by Resas to enjoy her Victorian Sonnet. ❤ ❤ Happy New Year.
The whole project was astounding from start to finish. From the fact that your mother had these spectacular pieces of fabric, to your generous gift and the lovely pictures you shared in preparation, to Resa’s amazing talent and ability to finish what she started in a timely manner, to the display and poetry. There were layers and layers of amazement in that project. She should have her own shows. I used to sew for people, but that is a level I couldn’t have achieved if I had started at age 2 instead of about 10 and was consecutively still doing it.
I made my own clothes are a young teen, Marsha, but not even in the same ballpark. More like “Home Economics” class in school. Lol. I love your comment about the layers involved in Resa’s project and our way of sharing it. I’ve been feeling that beautiful symmetry since the post went live. ❤
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Like you, my clothes were necessities, home ec quality. Mom worked at Fabric House in Lloyd Center, and later in life I married her boss. So I had the privilege of creating window displays then taking them home after they had served their time. That was fun. I also made my own roller skating costumes. That was fun, too.
LOL. What awesome stories. Do you have photos of your roller skating costumes.?
I do have one that I’ve posted a few times posing with my brother in our living room. 🙂 http://alwayswrite.blog/2022/01/01/bloganuary-1-what-advice-would-you-give-your-teenage-self/ I made the coat I’m wearing in this picture as well. 🙂 xxx
Thanks! I’m going to head over. 🙂
🙂 xxx I think I was about 17, maybe younger. Randy is two years younger. 🙂 xxx
Thank you, Marsha… a very kind comment, indeed!
Very well deserved, my friend. I think Diana and I will be discussing this project for a long time.
LOL!!! 🤍🕊
Marsha,
Yes, Diana’s post with the family photos is wonderful.
Well, as I was unpacking the boxes, I saw a gown. I knew then, that this was my next Art Gown.
There was initial thoughts, playing with fabrics here and there over a few months.
The fabrics, and the idea of them being heirlooms was utterly inspiring.
Once I began sewing, it took almost 7 months.
Thank you for your lovely comment!
HAPPY NEW YEAR
Wow! It is an incredible project. I’m with Diana, you need to have a showing – physically! It’s too beautiful for people not to see your work. You almost need a museum.
I do look for a venue. I have 14 Art Gowns ready to go for a show, but the places I find to show them are pricey.
What I really need is a backer/manager.
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You really do. Put a countdown on your blog and a donate button. Most of us aren’t big-time backers, but if you get enough small backers that would help. 🙂 xxx
Interesting idea..I’ll ponder that. If Ican find the right venue, and put a budget together, that’s worth a try! xx🤍🕊
Great! 🙂 xxx
What an exquisite Victorian Sonnet! Love the story behind the story and the glimpse into your family, Diana. I applaud you, Resa, for such an elegant creation; you are the queen of sustainable glamour, indeed. 🙂 All this is so beautiful and inspiring; thanks to you both.. ❤ ❤
Resa’s the queen of sustainable glamour, Khaya, that’s for sure. I’m blown away by what she accomplished with some very old clothes, laces, linens, and doilies. She transformed them into something new and elegant and beautiful. I just love that these items found a new life and won’t disintegrate in a storage bin or get tossed out when I’m gone. Thanks for swinging by and Happy New Year.
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Thank you for this lovely comment, Khaya!
I love “the queen of sustainable glamour”!
Happy New Year!
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Hello again Khaya!
I was just on your blog and read a couple of posts. I did the like, but am afraid to comment.
It seems my comments are going into SPAM folders, except when I comment from my blog.
Hopefully this will get rectified soon. I just wanted you to know! 💖
Wow, Resa, like your dresses you are one of a kind!
Thanks so much for swinging by to check out Resa’s gorgeous creation. You are so right, Pam, that she’s one of a kind. 🙂 Happy New Year.
And I look forward to the new release, Di!
Thanks, Pam. Two days! I’m still so excited and touched by Resa’s gown, I keep forgetting about the book. Lol. Happy Reading!
LOL!!!!
It’s true! The book feels so secondary. Lol.
Thanks Pam! Sustainable glamour all the way.
Happy New Year!
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And a Happy New Year back at you, Resa! xo
xo 🌟🕊🤍🎉
Simply stunning. Beauty from a bygone era re-imagined into a beauty for today. A true work of art!
Thanks for stopping by, Andrea. You summed it up perfectly: “Beauty from a bygone era re-imagined into a beauty for today.” I love that transformation and Resa is the person to get it done. Her gowns are pure fantasy fairytales. ❤ ❤
Thank you!
Diana’s gift was most inspirational.
Happy New Year!
Sorry, I just found this beautiful post buried somewhere down in my inbox and am fascinated by the delicate work of your artful fingers.
Of course, I can imagine that after 134 comments, you will be happy for it to come to an end!!
Sending love to you and Diana.🥰✌🌹💖
LOL. Aladin. I’m thrilled that so many people have seen Resa’s beautiful gown, even though I’ve had to scroll through all these comments multiple times! ❤ Resa’s kindness and her Victorian Sonnet gown and poem (the whole post) were just what I needed to end 2024, which was a distressing year for me as the world struggles with so much cruelty. She manifested true kindness, creativity, beauty, and generosity in this gown, something real that we can all see, and that’s pretty marvelous. Thanks so much for stopping by and wishing you a new year filled with kindness and peace.
I agree about the world struggling with cruelty. Thank you seeing VS as a positive energy! xo
Immensely so! After 350 comments, I’m still speechless. 🙂
Thank you, my dear Diana.
I believe that people like Resa, you, and those artworks can help us endure this cruelty and sustain the power of love to create a better world. Seeing so many people interested in this magnificent beauty is lovely.
I wish you a healthy and prosperous New Year.💖🙏💥
Same to you, my friend.
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Thank you for you lovely comment about my artful fingers! Lol, now it’s 359 comments.
It’s a party!!!
It’s New Years Eve, and I can’t think of a better time for a busy post🌟🎉🤍🕊💖🥂
Your excellent post, my lovely Resa, will keep our hearts warm and endearing. Just keep going! Happy New Year.
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Is you furnace fixed now?
Not yet!🤪 We need a complete new heating system (machine), and it’s ordered but is waiting to be delivered; maybe and hopefully on Monday. 🤞🤞
Glad to see. you can laugh!
Anyway, it is on order! Sometime next week you will have heat, and your brain will unfreeze!
🥶xo🥵