The Independent Artists Behind Dated’s Digital Market
Sustainable fashion, community support, and ethically unique wardrobes
Shop Dated’s Marketplace here.
Meet the independent artists below.
Photos by Zamar Velez, edited by Alai Landa
How’d you start your craft?
Around age 10 I began sewing by using fabric around the house along with used needles and thread. I made gloves for myself and they turned out awful, but I wore them everyday. I soon moved on to making dresses for my dolls as I believed they got tired of wearing the same thing everyday. It was all very simple until it developed into something that took up most of my time and became an everyday hobby.
Soon, I realized a growing urge to wear the dresses myself and look the way my dolls did. These dresses were Monster High-esque and inspired by Lolita culture so when I asked my parents to buy me the style of dress they felt I was too young. So until then I had to figure out a way to get them myself.
I began making and selling hair bows at primary school. Throughout that year I made tutus of random fabrics to wear over all my clothes until I could get the dresses. I eventually saved $200 from selling bows and was eventually able to order 2 dresses online. They took 6 months to come and by the time they did my mom had already bought me a sewing machine.
By 14, I was sketching and designing, making, and wearing my own items. They were definitely awful, but I loved them. People started asking where I was getting my clothes and eventually started selling to friends. It has now developed into a small business that I love and hope to grow.
What are you providing that people can’t get at the mall?
At the mall, the majority of clothing and accessories you’ll find are huge contributors to the pollution of the fast fashion industry. I provide people with quality handmade items that will last. I provide a chance for people to get garments that fit perfectly to their body based on their measurements. For my work, I draw inspiration from high fantasy and video games which leads to extravagant pieces that are not tame enough for the mall. I believe it is much wiser and more ethical to invest in quality garments that you can wear time and time again that you know will last.
To be environmentally conscious, I recommend curating an ethical wardrobe through thrifting, upcycling, and purchasing from small business owners. Independents designers are making less product and often are more conscious of the detriment the fashion industry imposes on the world. And if you’re one who chooses to stand out with unique garments, independent designers like myself have the ability to bring custom creations to life based on your measurements. Everything I make is charged with my love and energy that comes from these two hands.
Working 30-50 hours a week on crocheting, can you discuss what’s allowed you to believe in yourself enough to pursue your craft full time?
I finally trusted in myself and threw myself in my worst fear - vulnerability. I had been making beanies and bags and crochet gifts for my friends and family for the past few years and they all have been so supportive. Their belief in me is what has kept me going and kindled the belief I now have in myself. I’ve always felt that if you have a passion, you should pursue it 100% - so I did. Now, I’m excited to see how the future unfolds, what it holds, and the people it’ll bring to my life.
How has your dedication to your work and the response from that shaped you personally?
My dedication to my work comes from a constant need to keep on painting and making and creating. It’s something I’ve always experienced ever since I can remember. Before I started to even think about becoming an “artist”, I dedicated every second I could towards art.
When you devote yourself to something the energy you put into will shine through the work itself. I believe my dedication to my work has afforded me the ability to pursue becoming a working artist. Since my first small steps on this path, I have now had art shows, made commissions, sold work, met amazing people. No matter the outcome - even if I fail as a painter In the art world- I will keep on creating. It is of my being and I couldn’t stop if I wanted to.
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