New Blog

I have decided that I have not kept up with this blog as frequently as I had hoped. I started it my senior year of high school and was never able to give it the attention it deserved. My posts are sporadic and all over the place. I have decided I can dedicate time and energy to a blog right now and because of that have opted to start fresh. I will no longer post on this blog. 

Starting from scratch, I will be working on a completely new blog. My new blog is Malotke Sews. It is more about my process as being a Costume Designer. The blog is more progress oriented and less just inspiration based. I hope you continue to read my new blog, but enjoy the few years I have spent on this one. 

Thank you for reading!

-Brianna Malotke

Aspen Tank Pattern Testing

Usually I make my own patterns and avoid using commercial patterns. I prefer making sure everything fits the way I want it to and then I don't need to make alterations like I do with commercial patterns. Plus, it's fun to drape and pattern from scratch. But I'm looking to expand my wardrobe and try to make more practical clothing that I'll wear instead of just fancy things that sit in my closet. 

I've been trying to be more involved in a sewing community, especially since I'm in between costuming projects (my latest show doesn't open until September). So I joined Seen & Sewn's Pattern Testers group and tested out the Aspen Tank. 

Here is my progress:

I am a fabric hoarder and love buying fabric even if I don't have a set plan for it. So after getting the Aspen Tank pattern I decided that the striped fabric I had been playing around with draping would be perfect. 


After cutting out the pattern pieces, taping them together, I started to pin the pieces. It's a super easy pattern, just 3 pieces if you decide to do it without sleeves (which I did). Just a front bodice, back bodice, and bottom piece. Usually with patterns I like to line everything up, but with this I wasn't too worried and figured the stripes would look great not lined up. 






I made the front and back bodice with vertical stripes and did the bottom with the stripes horizontal. It's a nice pattern because, based on your size you need less than 2 yards, which is perfect if you like using remnants like me.

I made a Large even though some of my measurements fell into the X-Large range.


Now another change I made was opting for double fold bias tape because I wanted the arm holes and neckline to be outlined in a solid color. Plus, it added a nice clean line around the bodice. Pictured left is me adding the bias tape.

Pictured right is my final bodice in play. It's perfect for the summer. Lightweight and comfortable. I have to wear a sweater to make it more professional for work, but it's great by itself with jean shorts for this summer weather we've been having.

I would recommended this pattern to anyone looking for a fun summer top! It's a nice flowy option, so depending on how heavy your fabric is it's great for the hot weather. As of now I am planning to remake this top with a different fabric for another fun summer option. If you're interested in giving it a shot check out Seen & Sewn Patterns.

Cozy Studio Space

Cozy Studio Space by brimalotke

One thing I can't wait to do is live in a house where I have my own space to decorate and make my own. I look forward to having my own studio where I can have enough room for a desk with space for my sewing machines and room to sketch and make designs. I need room for bookcases and a cozy spot to read. 

Textures and colors are necessary for me to be happy :) I love mixing patterns, textures, fabrics, just combining all the differences for a great sensory feeling. With all of this going on it will be a hub for creativity, but also provide room to relax and unwind. 

Right now I share a study with my fiance, which means half of the room is fabric and art supplies while the other side is computer parts and cables. When we find a place to own I'll definitely make sure I have a whole room to transform into a one of a kind studio. 

Costume Design for a Cast of 40+

Sorry for the lack of posts recently, I have been very swamped the past few months with a huge costume design project. I was lucky enough to get to be the Costume Designer for "Joseph & The Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat" for the Champaign-Urbana Theater Company. With a budget of $500, two months, and a cast of over 40, I needed to make this production come to life. 

I had a lot of fun working on the show, especially making the dancers' looks. I'm going to try to post some progress pictures for the pieces I made from scratch. I loved working with quick changes, multiple costume changes, and a cast this large. My first show as a designer I only had 2 actors (they played all of the characters of course) to work with, so this was quite a step up from that show. I look forward to working on more shows like this in the future. I was very thankful to have a few people help work on some pieces for the show and to have some help backstage for changes and costume needs.

Stay tuned for more pictures! You can always check out my portfolio for more pictures too!

Ensemble in motion.

Close up of the Pharaoh's cape while backstage.

  

During "One More Angel," we had a hoedown feel to the cast.

Pastel Spring Fashion

Pastel Spring Fashion by brimalotke 

Shoes & Flowers

Shoes and Flowers by brimalotke 

I love oxfords/brogues/

loafers/ and any form of these classic styles. When I was in London studying abroad at the London College of fashion I took a Shoe Design class where I focused on looking more into men's shoes and working between a balance of femininity and masculinity. I designed a line of men's shoes inspired by the story "The Princess & The Pea." I love the blending of structure (typically associated with masculinity) and flowing lines (in this case the floral details or touches or colors). I am loving these combinations in the shoes pictured above. I may be rambling, but these styles are just classic and perfect for any wardrobe. You could pair them with jeans, a button down, and a blazer for a more professional yet casual look. Or you could try a tailored dress, sweater, and fun jewelry for a more dressed up style. Really, to me, the limits are endless and could work for any different style.