Up Close With Fashion Designer Desiree Doll
Tuesday, June 01, 2010
Desiree Doll is a Providence-based fashion designer whose retro-inspired creations channel the bombshell glamour of classic Hollywood. Her clothing line includes dresses, rompers, headbands, and even hand-painted onesies for babies. Camilla Hawthorne caught up with Doll as she was busily preparing for the Providence Art Festival on June 12th.
How long have you been designing apparel?
I started as a teenager, making my own prom dresses and customizing my clothes. I was also making hippie dresses to wear at summer music festivals. I would make these dresses for my friends, and they said, “You should sell these!” So I started selling my dresses at festivals. A friend got me involved with a fashion show in Providence, and then I did another show with photographers in Providence. I also started my own Etsy shop. I work as a nurse full time, but this is my side project—it’s my passion.
How did you learn to sew?
My grandmother sewed, and my mom really started me on this track. She made all of my dresses growing up. When I was in my freshman year of high school, I wanted a prom dress but couldn’t find one I liked. My mom took me to find a pattern
Video Wall Image (Local) and pick out fabrics. At first, she would
What aesthetics inspire you when you are designing clothes?
I’m inspired by vintage. I love taking vintage styles and revamping them, and I use vintage materials in my clothes. I love classic Hollywood glamour and goddess wear—long, flowing dresses. I like pixies, fairies, shimmery, shiny fabrics, and lace. I’m inspired by things that are mystical and mythical. And I make clothes that are easy to wear—nothing that will hurt you or that is uncomfortable!
Are there any new directions for your clothing line?
I want to start making swimsuits. I’ve been working with lamé and other stretchy fabrics. I am also planning to make pinup-style lingerie—I want to go in that direction for summer.
What advice would you offer to someone who wants to start designing clothing?
You need a good sewing machine…and patience! It’s important to have a vision of what you want to accomplish, and then stick to it. Be true to what you want to make, and don’t get discouraged if someone doesn’t like it. When I’m designing clothes, I make things that I would want to wear myself.
Desiree Doll apparel can be found at Queen of Hearts, 186 Union St, Providence, and online at http://www.etsy.com/shop/desireedoll. She will also be at the Providence Art Festival (June 12) and the IndieArts Fest Arts Exchange (July 31).
