Couture Doll Design Challenge

CONGRATULATIONS – ALL DID A WONDERFUL JOB!!!

2011-06-17T10:49:00.000-07:00

From Huckleberry Jackson: "The whole contest was a very nice experience. It was very interesting to work with challenges and themes, and it pushed me into places I wouldn´t have come to without them. It was also very nice to be working on the same theme with a lot of different designers, and beeing able to see many different interpretations of them. For me, the hardest part was to concentrate just on one outfit, because I´m more used to make collections and see them as a whole. But concentrating on just one outfit pushed me to go more intensively into detailing. I´ve been able to use that new skill already in my creations outside of the contest so I´m very glad, because I´m always looking to push my limits further and find new ways and techniques to interpretate fashions into the tiny scale.

I loved how different all the challenges were! My favorite challenge was the first one on ribbons, and i think the results of each contestant were amazing and the fact that everyone had to work with techniques that dont allow you to make sewing patterns brought out the most creativity and shapes that were really out of the box. The most difficult challenges were definitely roccoco and gothic because the themes themselves were so close to costume and historical costume that it was very hard interpreting them in a modern avantgard contemporary way. I´m very very very glad I won the competition and I can´t wait to see my pictures in FDQ magazine!

I´d like to thank Larraine, the judges, guest judges and competitors for making this such a nice and challenging competition. And a big thank you to all the people who follow and have encouraged me since the beginning of my doll couture." With love, Huck

Elena's personal comments will be added when received.

Like most people, I am not keen when something I REALLY enjoy comes to an end. However, I always take away something productive for having experienced it. While it is true this year’s CDDC was shorter, it’s definitely not true that it suffered one bit from this. I think it made the contestants aware that they only had a few chances to impress and win challenges so they worked harder to please.

And, oh what challenges we had – all designed to stimulate creativity!! Brought to us by Larraine Elcock and her fine team of both permanent and guest judges, they were definitely tasks to be reckoned with. With considerable hard work a large percentage of the talented group of designer/contestants went the whole course! What perseverance it takes to do this is immeasurable, but it’s definitely something to be applauded for.

But in the end there were two selected; The winner of CDDC3 is HUCKLEBERRY JACKSON!!!!!!!!!

CONGRATULATIONS ON A FABULOUS JOB!!! And for also snagging the Photo Contest Win! Our Grand Prize: Winner's designs will once again be featured in an upcoming issue of FDQ Magazine. From Couture Doll Shops he will receive a six month rent free shop on Couture Doll Shops site, this will also include shop set up/website (if the winner does not already have a site). And, from the Tonner Doll Company, a Galadriel doll will be given.

Second Place goes to Elena Peredreeva(Tselisheva).

CONGRATULATIONS ON A WONDERFUL JOB!! For her efforts she will receive the beautiful Arwen Evenstar rom Tonner Doll Company.

Now all we need to do is sit back, relax, and wait for the next CDDC. Surely there will be another, don't you think? I for one vote an overwhelming, YES!! Bye for now and enjoy your summer - stay in, be cool, and play with your dolls!!

Challenge 6 Winner Delights!

2011-06-14T09:59:00.000-07:00

Huckleberry Jackson wins both the design challenge and the photo challenge!!

I have to say this one didn’t surprise me. Although there were some wonderful entries, sometimes one comes along that simply takes your breath away – and this was IT for me!!! Let’s see how Huck envisioned this one:

“For this last challenge on gothic couture I wanted to work on something very dark but very romantic at the same time. My first focus was to work with very different almost animal like textures (snake, fish, bird). I made a long black straight gown out of a silk crepe which is a bit stretch and allowed me to skip the breast seams. I wanted the whole top of the gown to be almost completely straight and let the curves of the body appear through the transparency of the fabric.

It has long sleeves and a turtleneck to accentuate the gothic style. The fabric is decorated with dark jet grey matt sequences that are underlayed with black glass beading.

On some places I took off most of the sequences to let the beading appear and create an irregular rhythm between shimmering and matt. I decided to not line my gown because I wanted to keep the transparency and the quiet natural draping of the heavily loaded bottom part. All the seams are therefore piped with a very thin organza trim except the shoulder and arm seams that are finished with a very tiny English seam to give my gown the proper couture finishing.

On top of the gown my gothic diva wears a huge black jacket that is made out of a black fabric decorated with raw edge chiffon trims and gives a feather-ike texture. The jacket is lined with a thin black satin and can be worn in a lot of different ways. The silhouette is accessorized with very high black platform shoes, a black latex clutch, very long black earrings sculpted with tiny pearls and very short painted finger gloves.”

Photography winner is Huckleberry Jackson, also, with Honorable Mention to Anita Stoklosa and Anj Calvo.

Huckleberry Jackson

Anita Stoklosa

Anj Calvo

Well, that's almost it for your blogger for this CDDC - I say almost because the final blog will feature the final winners and their prizes - what fun!! So stay tuned as it will come out very soon.

Even woven fabrics can be stretched

2011-06-02T14:00:00.000-07:00

Anj Calvo wins Challenge 5 with his two piece dress with leggings. He kept to his plan to veer away from body suits, and instead gave us an ensemble with remarkable detailing. Nude illusion, stretch charmeuse, and even mesh made this fashionable and added just the right amount of movement for the discerning doll collector's fancy. The two looks, heeless shoes, and a darling clutch bag served as appreciated bonuses for this very feminine, hand-stitched entry.

Congratulations also to the winner fpr the Challenge 5 Best Photography:

Elena Prokhorova

Honorable Mentions goes to:

Huckleberry Jackson

and Maria Ustynovska.

At this point in the competition it's not anyone's game, but there could still be an upset!! But everyone who finishes this course should definitely consider themselves a WINNER. So stay with your game plan, finish the course, and prove me right that you are all phenomenal designers!

Lady Gladriel

Now let's tip our hat to our final featured sponsor! Returning again this year as our sponsor is the Tonner Doll Company (TDC). And they bring prizes for the winner and second place. The winner will receive the very beautiful Lady Galadriel from the Lord of the Rings. This Lady of Light will feature the face sculpt of Cate Blanchet with Elvish ears, and will arrive completely dressed.

The gown with its custom embroidery and pearlescent brooch is stunning, and it comes with panty hose, shimmering lace up metallic boots, and a wonderful silver and gold crown. A prize fit for the winner, indeed!

Arwen Evenstar

Again turning to Middle Earth, TDC

will be sending the second place winner the beautiful Arwen Evenstar doll. She, too, is fully dressed. Her gown is done in soft velvet with shimmering lace sleeves. Panty hose and faux suede boots are included and she features convertible feet. What a jewel for a winner's collection!

So, what’s Tonner Doll Company been up to since we last caught up with them? In 2011 they came through with lots of new, interesting dolls for the discerning collector.

Fleur Delacour

From new American Models to the Vampire Diary characters and loads in between – there is definitely something for everyone’s taste.

Here’s a mini-recap of a few of the new dolls.

Hermione Granger

Tonner Doll Company had replicated their officially licensed Harry Potter and Ron Weasley dolls into a small scale collection of 12 inch size dolls. For 2011 they completed the 12 inch size Hermione Granger doll in time for Toy Fair as well as releasing a new doll in the large line, Fleur Delacour. Ms. Delacour is a dressed, high-heeled female with a student body, blue eyes with blonde hair, and features the Bloom skintone.

Jasper Hale

Twilight lovers gained Jasper Hale, the love of Alice Cullen’s life.

And the Vampire Diaries series was born with the protective Stefan Salvatore, the affectionate yet feisty Elena Gilbert, and the smoldering yet conniving Damon Salvatore.

Yum, yum -- all three deliciousness you want to bite into for sure!

Stefan, Elena, Damon

Rapunzel

Disney fans were thrilled with Tangled’s Rapunzel as well as old favorites like Ariel and Jasmine.

And a delightful 10” line of dolls for the It’s a Small World line kicked off with representatives from Holland and Indian (not pictured) dressed in their tradition wardrobe.



Ariel and Jasmine

Catwoman and Black Canary

Wonder Woman

A medley of DC stars was sure to make the Comic Con fans sit up and take notice. New arrivals ran the gambit of selection and size from the 13” inch Catwoman and Black Canary to the 22” Wonder Woman. The in-between women, ranging from 16-17” (not pictured), included such alluring fare as Raven, Starfire, and Dove.

With the current movie offerings of Green Lantern, Thor, X-Men, and Captain America, it left me wondering would new guys join his hero base any time soon.

The other new offerings are just as wonderful, but will require you to take a trip over to the TDC website. All are definitely worth viewing.

So Sleek Sydney

Besides all the new dolls, Robert Tonner has also just completed a fabulous convention where I’m told the convention dolls were wonderful – one even included a special Sydney gift set to celebrate the tenth anniversary of Sydney Chase and the 20th anniversary of the Tonner Doll Company. TDC is twenty years strong with a bright future, so it makes me confident to predict that there will be many more Tonner dolls around my household – and I’ll bet a few will creep into yours too!

GOTH-Step Back-AVANT GARDE-Step Sideways

2011-05-24T09:25:00.000-07:00

Can you believe it - we're down to the final challenge. And this challenge, like all the others, is quite a doozy! Here's the challenge:

Well this is a mash up!!! Start by thinking Goth, then take a step back and think of how an avant garde designer would approach it, then take a further step sideways and make it enter the realm of couture. There you have it, Avant Garde Goth Couture. This style is not just for Marilyn Manson and the emo kids anymore...this is runway Goth.

Your challenge this week is to make an AG Goth design and keep it couture, so no costumes, no post apocalyptic (although this may still be in) styles, no witches and no warlocks. Make it couture, and make it work, designers.......have fun with this one, but do remember this is not a costume contest, it must be couture!!!

I can only tell you what I would do if it was my challenge. First, I'd rule out doing anything that even whispered costume! Then I'd consider what Goth might be to me:

Goth fashion is mostly a dark, sometimes morbid, eroticized fashion and style of dress. The specific styles are often borrowed from the Elizabethan, Victorian or medieval period and can express pagan, occult or other religious imagery including pentacles, ankhs, and crosses.

Then I'd look at what notable fashion designers have done. Here you'd expect me to look into the stylings of Alexander McQueen or John Galliano, two designers who have been described as practicing Haute Goth. However, since I've seen their styles almost "done" to death by others lately, I'd turn my attention to some new blood - puns intended, dahlings!

The Avant-Garde Ann Demeulemeester/s 2011 Paris Fall Show revealed this hodgepodge of Goth, punk and what some were even calling ... Goat Hair Couture! Armed with beautiful finishes, the Belgian designer peppered her tendency for black with vibrant bolts of red and striking prints.

Creating a poignant showing, Demeulemeester’ reached a new point of elegance with sharp defined edges and a distinct season must have–gauntlet gloves. An expert at romance, Ann Demeulemeester has managed to elevate her craft to a new level for one of Fall’s most refined collections.

Prisca Vilsbøl and Pia de Arce joined forces after graduating from the Copenhagen Fashion & Design School to create the twice eponymous label Vilsbøl de Arce. The Danish design duo creates projects ranging from avant garde fashion and interior decor to performance art costumes. Perhaps that is why Lady Gaga and Rhianna are rumored to be big customers.

Their dreaml ike designs are recognizable in their mastery of cut and drapery. And, while wildly experimental, the clothes are entirely functional. This is high art that can be worn. Their incredibly sculptural shapes combined with the exquisitely detailed leather work, and the contrasting qualities of drama and subtlety, make their outfits phenomenal.

Gareth Pugh is an English designer known for hard edged, highly structured designs. He surprised the fashion world with his soft, diaphanous, even romantic designs for his Spring/Summer 2011 collection at Paris Fashion Week. Of course, his romantic vision is otherworldly. Not surprising at all as he describes his designs as being "about the struggle between lightness and darkness." From Beyonce to Rihanna to Lady Gaga, designer Gareth Pugh is making a name for himself.

Pugh's trademark is his experimentation with form and volume. He often uses "nonsensically shaped, wearable sculptures to distort the human body almost beyond recognition." He’s the quintessential bad boy - dark, edgy, and unapologetic. His recent collection had severe, sculpted cuts, part alien/part cyber armor. There were even a few looks that had thin, dripping, web-like fringe. Pugh, always the rebel, didn’t even present the traditional runway show; rather his collection was shown as a video on a giant screen. But, no matter how you view his work, most would conclude it is definitely mind-blowing!

Guo Pei is known as China's grande doyenne of haute couture. Her clothing and accessories are truly works of art. They are all about fantasy with an emphasis on embroidery and really wild shoes. The shoes are absolutely architectural, sculptural, brilliant as objets des art, and are something most of us could not walk or even stand in. Is it any wonder Lady Gage’s designers will be incorporating them into future Gaga outfits?

Then, after having this overload of eye candy from jetting back and forth through many websites, I would begin to dissect the EXACT explanation Larraine always gives for a challenge: Start by thinking Goth, then take a step back and think of how an avant garde designer would approach it, then take a further step sideways and make it enter the realm of couture. There you have it, Avant Garde Goth Couture.

Okay, got my examples of Goth and can relate to how designers could make it avant garde. I know they are doing avant garde by the fact that their work is unconventional and ahead of its time. But avant garde specifically is not exactly what I think I am to design, as it would be so over the top, and wouldn’t fit in a real person’s collection. I also note Larraine is asking for couture – not haute couture. Haute couture would be designed for just one specific person (diva doll), be pain staking to produce, and would carry a verrrrrry expensive price tag. Haute couture might have been ruled out, I think, becuase it might not be produced in my short time frame and leave me caught up short. BUT - knowing Larraine and her judges with such impeccable taste - I also knew she is not necessarily calling for anything that is remotely ready to wear!

So I would decide to stick with my own definition of couture which would be something sewn well using rich fabrics – preferably my beloved silk. Everything must fit impeccably and all, including accessories, must be in scale. Then I’d search through my stash for rich Goth colored fabrics...remembering what I’d seen I’d use the ones I like specifically honed down. I'd recall designs I'd seen for this challenge as an example only. Then I’d give it all my incomparable spin – and voila’ – after a good pressing and scintillating photos, I’d be ready to deliver it all to Larraine’s email just in time for the judging. And now it’s time for you to decide. What path will you take to capture the essence of the challenge perfectly? Am I correct or way out in left field? That’s for you to ponder and decide as you go through your own process. Whatever you do, prepare to WOW the judges – as you know, that is what it has taken for a win for each and every one of these challenges.

Now let me get on with telling you a bit about your guest judge, David Buttry, so I can return to my world of fashion mags and bon bons – boy this ‘splaining stuff can be tedious, Lucy!!

David Buttry from Integrity has been nice enough to serve as a guest judge in the last two CDDCs, so you can imagine how happy we are to have him back again.
David has always been a doll collector, specifically of fashion dolls. He is also a graphic designer who is well known for his logos and other fashion doll illustrations. Illustrating was the original job he snared at Integrity Toys. While it is true he has worked under Vaughn Sawyers and Jason Wu, David definitely has a style all his own.

He has also designed ads and packaging for Integrity Toys. But the general public probably knows him better for the doll lines he's worked on that include Misaki, Dynamite Girls, and most recently, Poppy Parker. He likes to work on doll designs that include loads of personality. David has been published in Fashion Doll Quarterly, and other popular doll magazines, so every once in a while we get a glimpse into his amazing talent.

Jackson dominates in Challenge Four - with Rococo Style!

2011-05-17T11:19:00.000-07:00

Yes, there was no doubt who took this win -- again, Huckleberry Jackson! He has a firm lead with his 304 points, but with four other contestants with 250 plus points, there is no time to let down your guard - so we'll be watching with bated breath to see how the last two challenges score.

In Huckleberry's quest to satisfy the modern runway rococo meets the Oscars challenge, he says he wanted to "...work with the whole spirit behind the rococo style and make a contemporary new piece rather than just redoing the shape of a rococo dress."

He used some interesting fabric including a fine cotton stretch net and a silk crepe that he hand dyed. An odd pairing of plastic shell-like shapes, pearl beading, and crystallized Swarovski elements worked deliciously to provide some playful overdecoration to this stunning gown.

Adding to the overall styling of this creation were an over the top hairdo, ultra high heels and a simple clutch bag. All in all, not even difficult to see why this one conquered this win.....and the photography win, also!

Honorable mention for photography goes to:

Viktoria Kolmychek

Maria Ustynovska

Congratulations to the winners, and all the contestants. Even though some outfits may not have fit the challenge, all of the entries left behind a beautifully executed presentation for this competition.

Now we're going to turn our attention to the mahvelous permanent judges for this competition. You've already been given a full report on what Steven Fraser has been up to this season, now let's check out what Tom Courtney and Rob Thompson have been up to since the last challenge.

Since we last caught up with Tom Courtney he has left his post as Art Director for a collectible doll company. As a freelance artist he is working on branding more specific to his own art than to art he creates for others. Toward that end, and in anticipation of pursuing other new venues to work for, this creative professional has been finalizing his online portfolio. If you'd care to follow the progression of this delightful work of art, just visit his website.

There hasn't been time for much in the way of doll art, instead he has been rather busy learning new web-building software such a Dreamweaver, Fireworks, and Flash. Though a slow process, it has been quite constructive. He's also had to spend a lot of time researching and implementing various social media strategies, which seem to change daily, to include in his freelance potential. However, once a doll aficionado, always one, I'd speculate. And I for one look forward to his next creation whenever he can carve out some time for his girls and guys!

Since we last caught up with Rob Thompson he has been busy doll-wise. One of the dolls he is most proud of doing this past year was the 2010 Barbie convention live auction doll, “Pretty in Pink”, done in collaboration with Steven Fraser of Dressmaker Details. She sold for $3,000.00 for the charity, and there are some wonderful pictures of her at this link. He's also updated his gallery with loads of eye candy available over here.

His already large volume of work has also welcomed a new brand called “Razor Rain by Robsdolls”. This line is all very dark themed, edgy, or Gothic themed dolls. This line has been selling well, so Rob will be featuring a new “Razor Rain” logo, but all of his designs will still feature his Robsdolls logo in the corner. Rob needed this additional brand because these dolls don't fit the pretty, mainstream doll image that he has become known for. But, not to worry there will still be plenty of his original style designed. "Razor Rain" will be used as his brand directed to the Japanese market, and was also designed not to confuse existing customers who don't really get into the dark edge Gothic dolls exhibit.

One of his biggest projects, and something Rob is extremely proud of, is his charity auction for the NOH8 Campaign. He is organizing an online auction for this coming Fall that will feature one of a kind dolls made by some of the most celebrated and well known doll artists and designers in the doll world. The auction will be featured and publicized by many of the best known doll dealers, and will also be covered in FDQ magazine. The NOH8 Campaign is going to take payments for the winning bids directly so that the winner will get the charity donation tax deduction due to Rob's efforts, and their logo will be put on the dolls for the auction, also. He is even working on teaming up doll artists who don’t sew with doll fashion designers that don’t do OOAK dolls, so it is going to be a huge project. All of the dolls will be done in the NOH8 Campaign photo style which will include duct tape on the dolls mouth with the campaign logo painted over the face, and all the fashions will be white. You can see the style here at their website.. Rob hopes all his time and efforts will bring in between $10 and $20 thousand dollars for the charity.

If that weren't enough, Rob continues to stay busy with commission work and donations to the various charity auctions and conventions he is involved with. He is also working on a couple of articles for FDQ, and has been toying around with writing a novel. All I can say is, where DO you find the time, m’dear, to do all this - and judge CDDC??

S T R E T C H Your Imagination….for this Win

2011-05-13T12:47:00.000-07:00

I’m afraid I’ve procrastinated horribly trying to get this latest blog out. You see, when I think of stretch fabrics it’s either super hero, ballroom dancer, or athletic types I envision, and not the bold and beautiful stretch fabrics this challenge alludes to. So I really, really had to do some research on this one – and I’m happy to say this challenge is dead on – and I was not!

I never sewed on stretch fabric, and was feeing I’d be just as lost as the Project Runway contestant whose dress kept stretching and stretching long after the judges had reviewed it. So I was pleasantly surprised at some of the facts I found out about this mystery material.

First of all, stretch fabrics are some of the best for working with the body, making body issues into body assets. They also allow for comfort and freedom of movement without sacrificing style. It's travel friendly, wrinkle resistant, and washable in most cases. It's the perfect fabric to work into any wardrobe, actually.

It also comes in a variety of fabric and finishes that range from matte to shiny, gabardine to cotton stretch. No longer is shopping at a house of spandex your only choice for selection. Many stores carry everything from cotton lycra in stripes or solids to jerseys in a wide variety of colors and prints. Bottom line: Don't rule stretch fabrics out if you’re not into sewing costumes, active wear, or Batman’s latest cape. There’s plenty of top quality fabrics to make your diva doll her next fave fashion.

Milan’s newest major trends include texture, mesh, and inserts – all in one color but in three to five different fabrications - these add so much interest and detail. Leather, everything fitted and thin, close to the body, tough, urban, ready for action are all apropos’. These new fashions made heads turn as they came down the runway, but it was abundantly clear there was no room for anything extraneous, fluffy or unnecessary. Black, grey, tan, and army green were the colors that dominated.

Paris boasted short suits in cozy tweed and other looser fabrics. Their fashions also had inserts – this time in fur – and some boasted wool fringes. These were garments designed with perfect fit that guaranteed another successful Parisian Fashion Week. This year designers rediscovered construction, line, and cuts to reinvent new, transforming pieces. These new collections were built to be deconstructed at pleasure by simply pulling a drawstring or fastening a zip. Short dresses, with enveloping gores made of panels of stretch fabric for easy pleating, draping and nipping added movement to body skimming cuts. A palette of camel, glacé, cream and light blue shades pulled everything together, and made the front row viewers want to reach out and touch these soft, sophisticated stylings.

I hope this has been worth the wait. These new stretch fabrics really do seem quite devine! I’ll be sitting on the edge of my seat, anticipating what this talented group of designers will come up with. Having seen their latest rococo offerings, I am a bit overwhelmed.

This week our guest judge is Tamara Casey of Designs by Jude. She’s also one of our sponsors and I have recently featured her, so I’m only going to say CDDC is lucky to have her expertise in judging this latest challenge. She’s the consummate jill of all trades, master of many, and just a specially nice person that we’ve all come to know and love throughout the years. Thanks for all you do for CDDC.

Fashion Doll Quarterly (FDQ) Magazine and Couture Doll Design Challenge continue their efforts to support great new doll designers. And this year FDQ stepped up to the plate once more to offer a wonderful spread on the CDDC winners. We all need to give Larraine a round of applause for writing the upcoming article, and FDQ for finding CDDC newsworthy.

I cannot think of a greater thrill for a new designer than to be in FDQ. Each issue is specifically dedicated to the dolls we love best - fashion dolls - and is packed with wonderful pictures and stories of doll diva doings. And now, once more, some from CDDC will be featured - what a thrill!

A big nod to Pat Henry and her continued effort to put out a quality doll magazine about fashion dolls. She hits the mark every time an issue rolls out. The magazine is beautiful, well-written, and topic driven. All and all, a testament to an editor who knows how to do this job so well.

Be sure to stop by the FDQ website to view an exclusive interview between Pat and Robert Tonner. He really gives a lot of insight into his journey to where he is today - on top! While on the website you'll be able to see what's in the latest issue, subscribe or buy back issues, or even send in a question to Pat. Just a few moments on this website and I'm sure you'll appreciate this fashion saavy magazine - don't let this valuable doll fashion resource pass you by.

It's a thrill for Couture Doll Shops to be returning as a sponsor for our sister site, also. We're so happy that last year's winner, Yana Emelyanova, has completed her website with us, and now has her lovely shop on Couture Court. We’re a retail venue, it’s true. But in a lot of ways we’re like a big family – a family with a special interest in helping one another. We’re glad to have Yana as a new family member, and we look forward to welcoming the new winner of CDDC, too.

Daring duds win designer double honors...again

2011-05-02T16:52:00.000-07:00

With a near perfect score of 79, Huckleberry Jackson rises to the top to become the winner of Challenge Number 3, and nails down yet another challenge win! Congrats!

Over in the corner, CDDC's fearless leader, Larraine Elcock, and the Manager of Couture Doll Shops shook their heads wondering who might win it all. "With only 24 points separating the top four contenders it's anybody's race, so cheer on your favourite," said Elcock. "Hum, sounds a little like American Idol!", Dot remarked.

And it's so true - did you realize that every artist needs a little praise. So don't forget to give all the talented contestants a nice attaboy remark on the CDDC Yahoo group for just submitting their entry every 2 weeks - it's really no small feat. Also, while you're over there, give a special shout out for whoever you feel demonstrated the best entry for any particular challenge. How will anyone know otherwise?

We all know Huckleberry has a lot of talent. What was described by this artist as a challenge that was a "bit confusing at first," yielded a stunner that translated the outerwear challenge so well. This haute couture outfit sported a dress that was inspired by bondage but was not bondage, and gave us a lot of allure and attitude to ooh and ah about! In fact, it left your blogger wanting to be able to reach out and "capture" that hat!!

Huckleberry also takes home the Photography prize again. Honorable mention goes to:

Maria Ustynovska

Mark Tinkey

And now for that information I promised on your guest judge for Challenge 4.

Jim Faraone – If you create, he can relate!

Long before this craft of creating something different from an existing doll (an OOAK doll) became so popular, Jim Faraone was an OOAK artist in the biggest sense of the word. He trained as an artist at The School of Visual Arts in New York City, and is such a talented artist that his artwork has even been on display at the NYC Metropolitan Museum of Art.

But Jim, has been an avid collector of dolls, paper dolls, miniatures, paper toys, 40's and 50's plastic dollhouse furniture, metal dishes, and autographed celebrity photos for many years. And when his interests turned to creating OOAK dolls, the doll world not only gained an incredible doll artist, they also gained a wonderful doll friend!

Jim's doll work has made a natural progression since he began his journey of developing OOAK dolls. He wanted his 1/6th scale dolls to have their own personality, so he enhanced their makeup by even rooting eyelashes and hair. He developed elaborate hairdos for his glamour girls, too - braid, waves, and chignons come to mind. And when it came to developing their wonderful gowns, he became a beader - but again Jim took it to a greater level – in fact, Jim’s OOAKS are beaded wonders!

Jim didn't stop at making OOAK dolls, though. He actually began to chronicle his process and produced the final version in book form. To date he has had six books published; five in the series of Fashion Doll Makeovers, Learn from the Artists; and one titled Ultimate Fashion Doll Makeovers, Tips from the Experts. But Jim has never just been about self-promotion.

Jim Faraone is a true artist's friend. and many of his talented friends are the artists in his books that people learn from. They are also the friends who today support Jim in his best endeavor to date, his own convention, the International Fashion Doll Convention (IFDC). It is currently held in Las Vegas in the summer, and not only offers several days of fun with other doll friends, it is also a venue for some of the most informative workshops, a marvelous showcase for artist’s work, and a place where new fashion dolls are unveiled!

Jim has worked diligently to see that new work of professional and non-professional artists is displayed. He is an avid believer in supporting the artists and giving them the recognition they deserve.

Today Jim creates miniatures and paintings of dolls as well as copies of famous artwork for dolls which are prizes for the IFDC. The convention website is at http://www.ifdconline.com and you can see everything he has created for the 2011 IFDC at http://www.texasdolldesigns.com/jimf2011.html
So you may want to listen up when Jim makes his critiques. You can depend they are given by a caring artist, and hopefuly all the contestants will benefit from his take on their work.

Runway Rococo Meets the Oscars

2011-04-29T08:07:00.000-07:00

This week’s journey takes us down one of the shortest and most coveted pieces of carpet in America. For a few hours fashionistas all over the world will tune in to live feeds of some of the most beautiful gowns to be viewed for the year. Unfortunately some of the gowns viewed will be labeled as mishaps. Take note so your gown does not fall into the last category!

Opulent fabrics, bows, elaborate hats, lace, and all kinds of frou frou are characteristics of this style. However, overembellishing may not be what the judges are looking for. It might be more logical to depend on the fabric or the cut of the design to tell your story. Dior did it full skirted, but with an obviously overblown print, as we see in this pink concoction.

Alexander McQueen chose to transition Rococoian elements. By doing so, he came up with more sharply elegant evening pieces. He had no trouble achieving "the look" in any color. No matter which color he used, it spoke with a soft or hard boldness true to his style.

The accent color used or the cut of all the pieces in each outfit spoke truly but differently to the Rococo style we were once accustomed to seeing. So it wasn’t any wonder that gowns made post-McQueen began to emulate his work if only in the spider lace prints, crepe, and gold metallics now dominating the Nuevo-Rococo canvas.

Is your style more like the traditional Dior musings or will you choose to move forward like McQueen?. Neither is right or wrong – it’s simply the way your style dictates the design. Face it, all the great houses have tried it. Think Chanel, Versace, and even Dolce & Gabanna.

Each played off a fun, youthful look infused with the richness of Rococo style. Each was beautiful and spoke to the theme – but perhaps they didn’t speak to your entirely unique vision.

Remember, this is your time to really shine! So walk your doll diva down that carpet demurely and sweet – or dazzle, dazzle, dazzle with something quite unique!

Then we’ll soon see how the judges like it. But one thing is for sure, based on the designs we have seen in the challenges so far, it will take more than an instruction to eat cake to win this one!

I'll be back to tell you more about the judge for this challenge, but for now I'll leave you with the fashion most anticipated around the world for weeks - direct from the wedding, and designed by Sarah Burton.

Congratulations, dear Prince, I trust your dear Mother is smiling down on your happy occasion!

Huckleberry's Effort Wins Dual Prizes!

2011-04-18T12:59:00.000-07:00

HUCKLEBERRY JACKSON

Even a cursory glance at the judge's comments would make it obvious who the winner is for Challenge Two.

Brilliant. The purse is genius. I love this fashion. . That vest is divine! You hit this challenge right on the mark, and made it your own. It is a beautiful look... I like the idea of a mini wardrobe. You did a great job.

Huckleberry Jackson decided to give the 70ies influenced outfit a whole black and white Paris couture chic. It is a style that is timeless and is fun for this type theme. This began with the graphic white and black pair of flares that start underneath the breasts and reach the floor to stretch the silhouette to the max. Her very high platforms also enhance the stretching.

To give this outfit some color it has a classic 70ies blouse in peach. For another possibility of wearing the blouse it was continued into a jumpsuit.. To make it very sexy silk crepe was used, and it was fitted to be very close to the body. It was lined with the same fabric. The look was to be sexy but not see through!

The accessories included a big hat, faux fur jacket, a big circle purse, and a faux leather braided belt. Everything was worked up to have both a designer look and one appropriate for this era. A peach patterned scarf for the head and some "magic hair" topped it all off for additional styling with flare!

Winner of the Photography prize is:

HUCKLEBERRY JACKSON

Honorable Mention
Gordana Niemela and Anita Stoklosa

CONGRATULATIONS to all of our winners!!

Challenge 3 - Oh fiddly dee - it's a hard one!!

2011-04-15T01:29:00.000-07:00

OUTERWEAR WITH ATTITUDE

Once again this week we turn to the predictors of fashion trends for Spring. According to fashion reports, fashion took a U turn this spring to focus on elaborately detailed, luscious, and seriously grown up chic. Your challenge this week is to create outerwear for spring that follows this trend.

Make your designs "highly considered, beautifully crafted designs with a fetishistic edge". Make it work designers!!!

When I read this challenge I felt like I had been living under a rock on Mars! I had only took small sneak peeks at the recent runway shows, so I wasn’t up on “grown up chic”, “outerwear for spring that is part of the new fashion trend”, and definitely hadn’t even thought about anything “fetishistic”!?! From the questions I observed on the CDDC Yahoo group, it appeared early on that some contestants were not sure of which direction to go with the latest challenge, either. So, at the risk of confusing the little darlings even more, I’ve done my homework, and will merely throw my thoughts out there now. Remember, however, what I write only has value if YOU give it value. Embrace what you agree with, and forget about the rest!

Grown Up Chic

Many young shoppers are ditching bargain basement looks – finally! Instead they want superior fabrics and tailoring, for which they are ready to pay more It seems ironic in our current season of doom and gloom from forecasts we’ve been listening to all year, that people are actually willing to trade up when it comes to their wardrobes. They're not as willing to spend on things they're going to throw away. Instead the trend is to invest in something like a nice coat rather than a similarly lower-priced one that will only last a season.

The brands ringing up increasing numbers of till sales are defined by a sophisticated look known as posh. Fabric and finish rather than extreme high fashion runway looks dominate. Sure, avant garde looks still impress on the runway, but people are taking a more realistic approach to choosing garments for their own wardrobes. The price of clothing has been falling at an incredible rate for the past decade, but these new trends have led forecasters to predict an increase in women’s wear of 4.7% by 2012.

Outerwear New Fashion Trend

Chilly and rainy days offer great opportunities for accentuating your fashion style in the best way – using outerwear. Fortunately Spring 2011 fashion trends provide us with a great option of wonderful classic trench coats and trendy leather jackets that can be perfectly complemented with various fashion details.

A lot of fashionable brands present their outerwear pieces corresponding to the Spring 2011 fashion trends. Prepare to be lost in admiration with the latest offerings of vogue-looking outerwear. The latest perfectly combine high-quality fabric, flawless workmanship, and trendy style. Remember, you’ll want to also add a trench coat this year. Due to the length, one is absolutely essential if you want to sport a dress or a tunic. Though some can be quite expensive, opting for a few glamorous outerwear pieces that demand attention won’t break the bank

And then there’s “fetishistic”…

…and I didn’t even want to go there. Rather than venture off into what this word literally defines, I decided to pose a question of my own to Ms. Elcock as to what this meant in terms of the challenge. She directed me in a new, more appropriate path immediately! It seems you’d be designing with a more eclectic feel - -think Vivienne Westwood not bondage! Also, Larraine said, “The trend this year is towards overdoing embellishments. If you were going to put a button on a sleeve, it’s a put 10 in instead sort of thing.”

It looks like if you want to upgrade your look for the Spring/Summer 2011 season or satisfy this challenge, you’ll need to make a slight transition in your wardrobe and overall appearance. While it’s still cold outside you can sport neat new outerwear, then as it warms up you can continue with young, eclectic, cleverly over trimmed fashion…I guess! I only know one thing for sure, in my mind a lot of the new runway looks are sure trendy looking, and they are embracing a new season of fashion dominated by bright colors and beautiful, but lighter weight fabrics! Hallelujah, Spring has sprung!!

Bea Happy outfit by Durell for Marie
Osmond Adora Belle Mop Top doll.

A Returning Guest Judge
Durelle Brown, that multi-talented OOAK artist and dolly fashion designer extraordinaire is returning once again as a guest judge for this intriguing but misunderstood challenge. I have little doubt she will know the exact criteria for choosing the winner, as she well understands what place this challenge is coming from.

Durelle won her first DOTY for outfit
for Charisma doll, Journey.

She still continues to love lots of family time – especially since the arrival of her second granddaughter. However, time hasn’t been a great commodity; rather she’s had a lot less due to her design efforts for Marie Osmond’s Charisma Dolls, and her full time work as an Interior Designer. Sandwiched in there tightly has been spending time on her one other passion – that of collecting and designing her own dolls. Whether it’s a doll for donation at a charity event or one for a contest, you can be sure Durelle always puts out her next best effort.

Durelle's passion - a Pirate
for CDS' Pop Culture Challenge.

Her latest contribution to her doll doings was a pirate offering for a challenge on our sister site, Couture Doll Shops. Pirates continue to crop up in her portfolio, but every time I see one I marvel at the originality that is always prevalent in a Demi-Divas by Durelle creation.

Her desire to compete never wanes. In fact she is currently working on some designs for contests at the Tonner Doll convention as well as IFDC. Entries which she hopes to later add for sell to her doll shop at CDS, Chic Indulgence, but that will have to wait now till after convention season.

A fun couture outfit for Delilah Noir offered
up yet another win for Durelle.

I’m always reluctant to anticipate what a judge might be looking for. But since I know this particular artist very well, I am going to venture a guess that she’ll appreciate good construction and attention to details. I say this with confidence because I do know these are things she pays particular attention to when making her own designs. Welcome back, Durelle; we look forward to some great critiques coming from you!

Elena Feathers Her Nest With A Perfect Score

2011-04-02T13:37:00.000-07:00

ELENA TSELISHEVA

"I love silk ribbons, and the theme of this Challenge has pleased me. Ribbons are very various, using them limited only by imagination of the designer. You can weave them, embroider, crochet and knit, weave, such as macrame, can make beautiful flowers."

Very impressive...Stunning work...Feather detail is amazing...Exquisitely crafted....these are just part of the overall critiques from the judges. So it isn't surprising that Elena Tselisheva not only pulled off a perfect soore of 80/80 Elena to become CDDC3's first challenge winner!!!

For her dress she used five kinds of ribbons, gold metallic thread, and a weaving technique plus a little crochet. A crochet hook was used to decorate the cut on the back of the dress, and for the skirt nylon ribbon was used. The skirt's feathered effect used more than 10 meters of ribbon, and took more than 20 hours to achieve. .In fact this ribboned marvel even included a zipper as a closure. The remarks, the scores, and the photos show clearly why this design moved up to the forefront to become this first winner - CONGRATULATIONS Elena!

Winner of the Photography prize is:

HUCKLEBERRY JACKSON

JULIA REBESKOVA

The People's Choice Design favourite.

NATALIA SHEPPARD

The People's Choice Photography favourite.

Honorable mention goes to: Julia Mezrina and Anita Stoklosa. CONGRATULATIONS to all of our winners

That 70s Thing Gets An Update, Guest Judge Yana Emellyanova

Even as I am announcing these winners, I'm sure the contestants are knee deep in accomplishing the next challenge. And we are delighted that the winner of the last CDDC, Yana Emellyanova, has been moved up from contestant to guest judge for this phase of challenge.

There's little to write since my last update except Yana has been quite busy with commissions as well as making items to stock her new online store. As the winner of her own doll shop on Couture Doll Shops, she needed to build a website complete with a shopping cart. So her fans can look forward to buying direct from her soon!!
As some of you know, Yana creates fashions for Fashion Royalty, Poppy Parker, Silkstone, Tonner and Little Fee Dolls. She defines her style as classic, often inspired by vintage and retro fashions. She uses high quality fabrics and pays special attentions to details. Wouldn't it be nice to add something very couture to your collection - perhaps something like this would satisfy your diva doll??

New Fashions - Watch for a '70s Reimagination

2011-03-28T19:32:00.000-07:00

Challenge Two: At Milan fashion week, designers showed their trend towards maximal modernism, which is defined as pared down, minimal, wearable shapes, but in rich opulent fabrics with highly, decorative detail. While showing max/mod, the designers still made it obvious that the 70's continued to have a firm hold on their imaginations. Your challenge this week is to create the perfect 70's influenced daywear design with a maximal modernism flare

Have fun and make it work!!!

Hold on to your hats, fashionistas - it's official! Not only did the '70s influence Milan Fashion Week, but subtle hints the '70s are reemerging are beginning to show up in New York Fashion. And what is being seen?

Any hip designer is taking pointers from that era, and you can look for everything from jumpsuits to turtle necks to show up once again.
Drop waists, flowing ruffles, and draping will round out a '70s based collection. And, we'll see them in our own clothing, so I think it will soon be apparent in clothes our dolls will wear. Doll fashion just normally follows our trends - and you do wear couture now, don't you, dahling?

We'll all feel we've stepped into a disco era when we begin to see fabrics that are shiny like lurex and satin taking a leading role. We can expect big name designers to embrace a more minimal look. Layering can be key to design work at this time, so I look to see lots of individual pieces in multiple colors.

Be sure to include plenty of tops to wear over your new flared pants. Flared pants are what designers are using as an update for bell bottoms. Say hallelujah to colorful prints and fun designs! Embrace leg warmers and simple shift dresses that are taking the place of the '70s mini and knee socks. And don't forget to include killer shoes - platform shoes and mules as well as thick heels and ankle straps will best suit all your '70s designs.

It should be interesting to see what all of the designers come up with, and it will also be interesting to see if our dolls will embrace designs from the '70s. But first we'll announce the Challenge One winner - watch for this in a few days!

We're extremely lucky to have Designs by Jude (Owner Tamara Casey) as our sponsor again for this version of CDDC. Since we've already heard how this fitness trainer turned fashion doll fashionista has used her considerable talents in our world, and about the combination of patterns that makes Designs by Jude, I thought it would be fun to let you know about other challenge events this bright star is involved with. First, she makes appearances with her products either as a sponsor or a participant in most of the events of our sister site, Couture Doll Shops (CDS). This is because she is one of our cornerstone, or sponsor shops there.

But her most fun personal pattern project is the challenges she hosts on her Yahoo group. The requirements to enter these challenges are to belong to her Yahoo group, and to use her patterns (which can be altered a bit). Small things like closures and hem length can be changed to make her patterns your own, but other than that you just have a theme to follow. But you don't want to veer off too much from the current pattern or you probably won't cover one of the winning points which is best interpretation of the assigned pattern.

Because a pattern is allowed, this kind of competition has a range of competitors from experienced to novice. The group also discusses sewing and pattern information in general. For novices, there is always someone to answer a question. And, for everyone, lots of new and upcoming things you may have never heard of are introduced on the group as well as things you've wondered about - perhaps a serger, ruffler, or pleater for example.

The current challenge is the Spring 2011 Castle Carnival Sewing Challenge that has an entry deadline of April 9th. Her Yahoo group is always accepting new members. She also makes announcements there for new patterns. So whether you're a competin' Queen, or just want to stay up to date about this great company, you'll enjoy belonging to this particular doll group - I know I do!!

A Ribbon Runs Through This Fun Challenge!

2011-03-11T13:28:00.000-08:00

TIE A YELLOW, OR A RED, OR A GREEN...
Your challenge this week is to use only ribbons to create a fabulous design. You may choose to create daywear, night wear or casual wear for this challenge. Remember it must be couture.

In 2005 I began to see a place for high-quality ribbon on the runway. It was at the heart of a trend to a natural look with an emphasis on femininity and pure cuteness. This is not to say ribbon hasn't been an influence in design work since it was developed; I'm only saying there was a great resurgence in its use at that time.

Designs rocked both the Paris and Milan Fall/Winter runways that were styled with prim and proper ribbons. By the time the Spring/Summer collections aired, it was ribbons that accentuated many styles. They were worn like belts, decorated hemlines, and were being used as trim to add a touch of softness to even more previously trimmed down items. I found myself perfectly delighted that someone had updated something as mundane as a trench coat!

Today ribbons continue to embellish and influence many garments world-wide. Although ribbon is said to have originated in

France

, it's been hard to keep them down on that highly fashionable farm once the world started to re-appreciate them so much. New colors were added as this trend grew, and soon more designers and suppliers were looking at varied patterns, different types of fabrics, and anything else to update old ribbons and make new ribbon styles unique. All the best wanted to develop ribbons that were unique enough to be incorporate into many clothing designs or ribbon supply inventories.

Like their real life counterparts, our dolls seemed to clamor for some ribbon action of their own about the time of this re-appreciation. One really important difference, though, was the way ribbons could be used in doll clothing design. Not only could ribbon be used to make a convincing obi sash, purse strap, or headband for one's latest dolly hairstyle; these models were also of a size where ribbon could conceivably be used to make an entire creation - or a creation could be made by incorporating more than just one type of ribbon. The fashion world hasn't shown any lack of enthusiasm for beautiful ribbon worked into designs, and I doubt this trend has reached the end of the spool for dolls either. But wouldn't it be nice to put it to the test?

Steven Fraser - Dressmaker Details

And who better to put ribbon to the test than the originator of this challenge, noted designer and Ribboneur Extraordinaire, Steven Fraser!?! Steven began Masterstroke Canada, Inc. about fifteen years ago to provide the world's finest ribbons and trims to its customers. Seven years ago Dressmaker Details was developed. He says it offers quality doll notions and trims for scale-conscious dolly fashionistas because it is "a company borne out of the many requests for our diminutive ribbons for doll artists."

Steven's newest line, Dressmaker Details Couture, was also specifically developed for our small mavens of fashion. He says "DDC is a return to a bygone era of doll fashions; it evokes memories of a time when even the minutest detail was not overlooked from the loops of ribbon to hang a strapless gown, to the tiny compact inside of a miniature patent leather clutch. It's all in the details!"

Steven Fraser came to CDDC as a guest judge, and we're quite lucky he came on board as a resident judge, and is back with us for this edition. This master constructionist doesn't just talk about details being important - he proves it in all of his designs.

So I assume the questions our contestants will have to ask themselves as they develop an outfit to satisfy this challenge might include: 1. Can I go a bit out of scale and garner high points from this judge? 2. Would my fashion be a good fit in a Parisian-style doll couture salon? And finally, 3. Do I have the right ribbon to get on with this challenge!?! I also assume they need to get on with it FAST, because time's a wasting now that the challenge has hit the internet - well not that fast. They may want a little insight as to who their guest judge is first!!

Dal Lowenbein - Dal's Dolls

"I am unafraid to challenge myself. I believe that is what life is for. Growth, joy and beauty!" What doll designer, really any type designer, could go wrong with a motto like this one from Dal Lowenbein? She's been entering doll design competitions and blogging at least four years, and it appears she's managed to grow and win and enjoy her time. Read Dal's blog if you'd like to know more about her journey.

We were fortunate enough to see some of her very challenging designs when she did a stint in a CDDC competition. There she managed to impress the judges enough to place second overall. But we hadn't seen the last of Dal, because she's been nice enough to come back and guest judge from time to time. That's the case in this remarkable ribbon challenge, and I think she's a perfect guest judge to analyze how these contestants tackled it.

You see, Dal can and has won many challenges BUT she's also felt the sting of less than stellar marks when she hasn't gotten it quite right. She's been there and done that from both sides of these competitions, so I don't think I'm wrong advising the contestants to read carefully and appreciate what she says when she steps up to the plate. You can always get a "Wonderful; I love it," on any item when you show it to Mom just as you run the risk of getting a heckler who will say "It's awful," when you show something where comments come in unsolicited. It is far different getting it from someone who cares.......specifically someone like Dal. She has a good heart and a keen eye - and she'll be using them both to try to give you constructive criticism that will help you grow and improve your couture doll designs.

This year again we have a wonderful group of designers! I don't think we have any worries about them getting on with their designs or learning from the process. In fact, I know some of them could hardly wait to be selected for the competition, so I'll bet they are really happy to now have the first challenge. So now here for the first time on the blog, specifically for our audience's viewing pleasures, are the new (and some returning) designers who want to push their limits to design something worthy of challenge win(s).

As you read their information below, I think you'll see how very much these contestants appreciate the type of venue Larraine Elcock has developed with CDDC. The resounding reasons most say they want to return or enter CDDC is because the challenges allow them to push their boundaries way past where they were originally, and both the contestants (and audience) have lots of fun seeing each challenge revealed. I'm glad they're not all about being serious or competitive; they - like Larraine - seem to remember that no matter how sophisticated our efforts get, when playing with dolls we should at least have a little fun. Hum….very intriguing…let's move on and meet these interesting designers!

Aly Greaves

I am a costume designer for the theatre in Chicago.

I have been collecting fashion dolls since 2001. I enjoy using the small bits and bobs left over from my costumes to create one of a kind pieces for my little plastic actresses.

Anita Stoklosa

Doll Collectors know me as Anicetta. I'm from Poland, and sew mostly for Silkstone Barbie and Fashion Royalty. I make sure that all my outfits are made with the highest standards, with lining and professional overlock finish on the edges before it is labeled with my logo. My creations have unique hats made of felt, trimmed with feathers, beads and ribbons. Because of my love of dolls I decided to study Art at the Silesian University where I have an opportunity to deepen my knowledge and perfect my skills. CDDC is another opportunity to do this too.

Anj Calvo

I am a doll customizer in the

Philippines

. I go by the name Gabooche online.

I love customizing dolls, particularly celebrity dolls. I almost do everything to these dolls - from repainting, re-rooting, and designing and making their clothes and accessories.

Anna Kawka

I'm from

Poland

. I hope to have enough time to finish all the challenges from CDDC this time, but my first priority is as a housewife and a mum of two great boys.

My biggest passion is sewing doll clothes; all dolls I have in my collections are bought for sewing so I have many types and brands of dolls.

Anna Lipka

I'm from

Poland

. My two great passions are dolls and sewing.

I'm very happy when I can create new fasions for my dolls.

I enter CDDC with the hope it will bring new experiences and new challenges that will be visible in my designs.

Dagmara Morcinek

I’m a thirty-something wife and mother of two wonderful daughters. Since I was a child I have always been interested in sewing.

I start collected dolls three years ago. I began making a doll house in 1/6 scale with furniture and other accessories, and then was successful doing repaints and restyling dolls as I believe I am little art talented. I sew OOAK outfits that even include shoes, and am in the process of opening my own OOAK fashion business for dolls. My favorite dolls are from Integrity Toys, especially Fashion Royalty, Poppy Parker and Avantguards.

Elena Peredreeva(Tselisheva)

I live in Yoshkar-Ola,

Russia

. By profession I am an accountant, and I create outfits for dolls as my hobby. I have sewn for dolls since I was five. I began with small Russian dolls, later Barbies, and now I am passionately in love with Fashion Royalty dolls. I have collected them since 2007, and most of my fashions are made for them. My favorite fabrics are silk, leather and ultrasuede. The same way I like different kinds of embroidery, silk ribbons and beads, but have never used these methods of decoration in doll clothes before, but I am hoping CDDC will present an opportunity for me to explore new things.

Gordana Niemela

This is my second CDDC and I am loving it! I love to design and sew for a variety of girls -from casual to ultra formal.

I have been sewing and designing since 2003. I attend the occasional Doll Convention, and have won several awards. I sell on e-bay and my website is Glamour Goddess Designs.

Elena Prokhorava

I live in

Russia. and

I collect dolls and sew clothes for them. This is my main hobby, but I also really like to draw, and many of my things at first appear in an album in the form of drawings.

For a long time I have dream of participating in the CDDC competition, so I am very happy to have been accepted to participate.

Huckleberry Jackson

I'm thirty-something and truly international. I was born in Luxembourg; with my mother being from there, and my dad is Portuguese. I studied in Brussels at La Cambre, and now I live in Berlin.

Back in fashion school I began draping on dolls because I didn´t like drawing. For me this was an easy way to quickly get an idea of what a certain volume could look like. Later I realized how much I actually liked working on the tiny scale.

I´ve collected Blythe and Silkstone Barbies, but my collecting was totally changed when I discovered Fashion Royalty dolls. Their posability and attitude were just what I´ve been waiting for my whole life without even knowing it! I especially love the picture taking part with them; there is always this moment when a doll wears my outfit and I have found the perfect pose and light; it's then I can feel the magic happen.

Irina Koroleva

I live in Moscow,

Russia

.

I have collected fashion dolls for five years.

In my collect are Sybarite, Momoko, Fashion Royalty and Tonner.

Jason Kramer

I have been collecting and designing for fashion dolls for the last seven years, and have taken part in a few design competitions.

My collection consists mainly of Tonner 16" fashion dolls, with a few Barbies and Fashion Royalty as well.

I work full time as a Costume Designer for a company that specializes in competition costumes for High School and Independent Color Guards and Dance Teams. I love finding inspiration in contemporary fashion for my work as well as in my doll fashion designs. I am so eager to take my work to the next level, and have been quite impressed with the CDDC challenges the last two cycles. I am very excited to push myself and am ready to step out of my comfort zone, and take part in a competition with clear direction and interesting challenges!

Julia Mezrina

I'm a twenty-something web designer from Izhevsk,

Russia

. I collect Fashion Royalty dolls, and I've recently got my very first Sybarite. I made clothes for my Barbies in my childhood, but only started sewing for my dolls again about a year ago. I'm not a gown person, and do prefer classic suits over evening gowns for my dolls. I was lucky enough to be among the CCDC contestants last year and to win a third prize -- absolutely fantastic!

I've learned a lot from that challenge to improve my skills and met some great people. That is (obviously) a lot more important than any prize could be. At this time I'm also looking for more things to know... and fun, of course!

Mark Padilla

I'm in Petaluma, California, USA.

Sewing for my doll Ellowyne is a great passion of mine, and an awesome creative outlet for me.

I regularly post my pics on my group doll blog, Doll Observers. Since my first participation in the last contest, I have been waiting on the edge of my seat for the next installment of this wonderful competition. I learned so very much and had so much fun!

Julia Rebeskova

I live in

Russia

, in the city of Tolyatti. I am twenty-something, I have a nice family consisting of my husband and two children.

I started collecting dolls about a year and a half ago, and very much like to make clothes for them. I like to think out new images. I am looking forward to this competition.

Maria Ustynovska

I live in Odessa,

Ukraine

country. My 2 year old daughter and my dolls are the most important things in my life. Since my childhood I have been fond of dolls, and in 2008 they became a big part of my life. This life has carried away in me a whirlpool of wonderful with mini people.

Now I am fond of FR, Tonner, and the Sybarite especially. I like to sew for them very much. My dream is to begin my own line of dolls and clothes for them. All my experience I took from my Mum and my father. She has taught me to sew alone without a teacher, and he is an architect and painter, so he taught me how to draw. Now that I have graduated drawing school, and am also Iearning sculpture. This year I will go to the school of art for theater, and my specialty will be costume design. I believe the level of my knowledge and my experience will help me became a famous costume designer

Mark Tinkey

I have worked as a costume designer and actor for 16 yrs.

I was the winner of the Judges Choice in advanced design at the final Gene convention.
I also have designed OOAK pieces sell at auction for up to $1500.

Natalia Sheppard

I'm a thirty something lady who in 2006 (4 years ago) came to

USA

from

Russia but hope to maintain a dual citizenship in both countries because I consider myself a citizen of each of them.

I started making clothes for dolls when I came to America. I graduated from Professional Technical Specialized School where I studied design and was taught to construct and make clothes for people. Design and construction obviously were not new to me.

Terry Barner

I have been primarily a repaint artist, but I have created some OOAK dolls and some fashions for about 15 years.

I have a passion to create and find a great deal of peace when I get to do that.

Sometimes time has no meaning when I get involved in a project.

Valentina Churkina

I am just in to the thirties, and I am an attorney living in Moscow,

Russia

.

In my childhood I enjoyed sewing clothes, and finally my old love to sew clothes is back, and I'm happy to be designing and sewing clothes for my favorite dolls - FR, AG, Barbie/Silkstone, and Pullip.

Viktoria Kolmychek

I'm a doll lover from Moscow, Russian Federation. Two years ago I started my doll hobby, so I have been making doll clothes for one year and a half.

I prefer to work with Tonner dolls, both classic and the Antoinette line. I love classic Tonner dolls for their femininity, and they look so great in classic designs! And I can make the shortest dresses for Antoinettes

I use only the best fabrics for doll dresses. My credo is: "Even plastic dolls prefer natural silk!" I work at an online store as an editor.

Zenia Komar

I am twenty-something, and I was born in

Ukraine

, Lviv. Now my husband and two daughters and I have lived in Poland the last six years.

My passion is sewing for dolls. I like it and try to do it in every free moment. My works are not perfect, but I am still learning. I want to take part in the competition so that I can be challenged and have an interesting experience.

Lana Turk

I love making One of a Kind fashions for a variety of collectible dolls ranging in size from 11" to 22." I also make OOAK Artist dolls, dressed repaints (mermaids, fairies, warriors, steampunk, gothic, etc.), and a wide variety of jewelry, hats, shoes and other accessories.

All my doll clothes are handmade and of excellent quality. They are designed and sewn by me personally. I also take personal requests for fashions, repaints and jewelry.

This is my second season doing CDDC challenges, and I really enjoy it. Since the last one I have become one of the newest shop owners on Couture Doll Shops with my shop titled Doll Couture by Lana on Designer Drive.

Alena Mokhan

I’m twenty something and was born in Belarus, but now I live in the USA. Thanks to my mom I had very early interests in crafts. After graduating from the Belarussian State University I started to create dolls from polymer clay and doll clothes for American Girl, Tonner McCall and Barbie.

It’s so wonderful to link your job with what you love to do. Of course, I have a great helper - my little son! When I need his advice he does his best! And I'm so happy that I have a chance to participate in your great competition of doll clothes designers.

Breck Sullivan-Carpenter

I'm from Connecticut, USA, and began sewing and playing with dolls when I was 5. My creations for Barbie, made from Mom's scraps, often featured a Southern Belle theme. I know I spent hours fitting those huge belle skirts to the doll's tiny waist. In high school I was introduced to theatre, and became involved in both acting and costumes. In fact, I have spent over 25 years designing, and have even worked on Broadway where I was a draper/first hand in the early 80's. I hold a degrees in both theatre and psychology. I'm really a closet doll and fabric lover who likes to have fun - and I am really looking forward to the challenges!

Susan Grindstaff

I come to sewing and design work naturally through the influence of my talented mother who worked as a seamstress to help support the family. In fact it is from her that my passion for creating something unique and original was derived. I spent 15 years designing for real people before I discovered how versatile and rewarding it could be designing for our diminutive divas – and I love it. I design all my creations, and make patterns for each one, too.

I did CDDC last season. It was an interesting, fun experience, and I was happy with some wins as this was my first time competing. It was a real revelation, teaching me a bit about competing in general, and what is expected of you. I am continuing to sell my design work at Viva La Posh, and look forward to these challenges.

Spring is in the Air - so let's go, Divas!!

2011-02-28T19:20:00.000-08:00

Well, dahlings, it's time for me to hang up my novels and Godivas for awhile!! I'm happy to be rolling out this blog for the newest Spring Version of CDDC!!

You may not have heard it here first; that privilege is for the CDDC FTK group, but luckily I"m a member - and you can be too. Or you can just come over here and get the skinny by becoming a CDDC blog follower.

Enter, watch, learn from, enjoy - any way you choose to participate, you'll want to be involved in this new Spring Version of the Couture Doll Design Challenge which will begin soon.

Based on previous years, we can only speculate what wonderfulness we will encounter!!

Will they take on the latest from the Oscars, travel to Outer Space to see what's newest out there, or might they go in the opposite direction and do a little Time Travel - back to the future so to speak?

Well, dahlings, whatever they throw at this latest group of contestants, I hope they will be able to fulfill the challenges as well as those in the past versions of CDDC. In fact, I am hereby challenging the new contestants to do so without even knowing who they will be....yet!

And how are we all going to find out who the contestants will be this time? They will be the brave souls who are moxie enough to pose their muses beautifully in their designs, snap two (2) fresh photos of them, and send them in to CDDC's fearless leader, Larraine Elcock, by noon Sunday, March 6.

They will all need to remember to stay completely within her guidelines - there are no do-overs for this assignment! Pictures can be no larger than 500 pixels in height and should maintain a complimentary width. Also, a very short bio, and the name and email address of the entrant will need to be in the document one sends in! Then they won't have very long to pace and wonder, as those accepted as contestants will be announced Tuesday, March 8.

You'll want to be sure to mark your calendars so those who aren't entering can cheer others on! All challenges will be given and are due on Sundays, and here is their Tentative Schedule:

Challenge 1 given: March 13
Ch 1 due; Ch 2 given: March 27
Ch 2 due; Ch 3 given: April 10
Ch 3 due; Ch 4 given: April 24
Ch 4 due; Ch 5 given: May 8
Ch 5 due; Ch 6 given: May 22
Ch. 6 due: June 5

The Challenge winner will be announced on the CDDC FTK list the Sat after the Challenge is due in, and on here as soon as I can get some juicy tidbits out of the winner! This contest will be short but inspiring, and you can expect the Overall Contest Winners to be announced June 12 or sooner.

Most are usually in it to push their creativeness to the max, but I don't think anyone has not enjoyed the prizes given. Prizes will be awarded for First Place, Second Place and Third Place at the end, and each Challenge winner will also receive a prize.

So I hope any of you lagging back or afraid will get over it! Our dolly divas really need to add to their Spring and Summer wardrobes! You don't have much time to get your entries in for a CDDC competition that is "Challenging the best to be better."

Sooooooo I'm CURIOUS.............

2011-01-14T16:16:00.000-08:00

...and I don't relish the thought of pacing down my fav Jimmy Choos, so I bite the bullet and decide to have a mini-interview with Larraine Elcock, founder and producer of Couture Doll Design Challenge. First I do all the expected kudos - after all it was a splendiferous competition!! - and then I snap the question everyone has been wondering about. Trying to catch Larraine off guard, I nonchalantly ask, "So when will the next CDDC begin? Is it true we may have a Spring competition?"

However, unfortunately, I think people have become so obsessed with this question, that Ms. Larraine has developed a pat answer. So she replied just as nonchalantly, "You do know Fashion Doll Quarterly Magazine is one of our sponsor, and as such will run my article featuring the winner, Yana Emelyanova, don't you? If you would like any details on the next CDDC....if there will be one....stay tuned for the next (Spring) issue! Everything "should" be revealed then."

So, my pretties, I guess we can amuse ourselves with a chocolate binge - diet rotation, OR we could busy ourselves getting ready - IF some of us may be among those designers I've heard have already signed up...you know - just in case! ROFL

I can only speculate that having been given a wait and see advisory, all of us will actually have something worth waiting for when we see the next issue of FDQ! Be back right after I find a copy you can be sure!

HAPPY NEW YEAR!!

2010-12-31T23:51:00.000-08:00

Thanks for your support and participation during 2010. Look for information on the 2011 season right here!

Aren't Prizes GREAT!?!

2010-11-29T13:43:00.000-08:00

A Doll's Christmas Tree......

I just received a picture of this wonderful prize Larraine Elcock will be receiving for her At Home Challenge win!! Isn't it great?
This was made by Ina Murphey, and it features over 100 tiny ornaments.

I've selected a picture with a doll in it so you can more easily gauge its size. Without the doll one could very easily mistake this for a life size Christmas tree!!Good things do come in small packages!

Congratulations for winning this, Larraine - and my hat is off to Ina for creating it. If anyone else would like to share their prize wins, be sure to drop the blogmeister an email.

Saluting the winners and adieu..........for awhile!?!

2010-11-22T09:12:00.000-08:00

It's never fun when something we REALLY enjoy comes to an end, but we always knew we only had a set number of challenges, and then our winners would be announced. Now all that is left to do is salute those winners....well, almost. I would be remiss if I failed to give a nod to all the contestants that continued to create throughout this process. It takes a special person with lots of perseverance to do this - so, to you, I tip my hat!!

For the rest of this blog I'm going to let the winners speak for themselves - each of them has prepared a few closing words, and have selected their favorite pictures to provide you with some wonderful eye candy! So sit back and enjoy!!

CONGRATULATIONS TO THE WINNER OF CDDC2:

YANA EMELYANOVA

Yana's designs will be featured in an upcoming issue of FDQ Magazine. From Tonner Doll Company she will receiveEvocative Antoinette, LE 150, Tonner Direct Exclusive, and from Integrity Toys, she'll enjoy Erin "Picture This" Convention exclusive. Finally, from Couture Doll Shops, she will be given a shop on this new doll mall for six months to showcase her work.

Some words from Yana...I live in Chelyabinsk,

Russia

. Chelyabinsk lies on the border between Europe and Asia. This is a big industrial town like Detroit in the

USA

. I have a university degree in ecology. At the present time I’m raising two children. I had a son Ilya (4 years old), and a daughter Anastasia (10 months old).

I like realism in doll clothes. I'm constantly trying to use new patterns, materials and accessories. I try to avoid repetition, and am not interested in making copies of my fashions .

This contest was a big test for me, because I concentrate on the classic fashion of the fifties in my practice. Also, the level of skill and creativity of the contestants was very high.

I found it very difficult to understand the requirements of the contest in the first two rounds, and I lost a lot of points. After that I reviewed all the judge’s comments, and discovered I could change the situation. So I must give many thanks to the judges for their comments.

It was a great school for me. Deconstruction, Steampunk, and Gothic fashions expanded my perception. I became a different person after this competition. I feel empowered for the next dolly project! And I now have a lot of friends around the world. Thank you all….Yana

Congratulations to our Second Place winner:

Irina Koroleva

She will receive Glowing Muse Basic Honey Antoinette (includes 3 wigs) and Juxtaposed Outfit Only to fit Antoinette from the Tonner Doll Company, and Veronique "Stylish Escape" from Integrity Toys.

Some words from Irina...I dreamed of becoming a fashion designer from childhood, but worked for about 10 years in IT/Telecom. And I am happy, that my dream has come true now. In the last two years I have finally been making my fashion designs, but I do have some experience in a sewing fashion for myself that I translate for dolls. I haven’t a favorite doll model - I sew for Sybarite, Momoko, Fashion Royalty and Tonner dolls. Each doll needs an individual approach.

I prefer a complex and rigorous construction, but often I like to use very complicated embellishments such as beads and embroidery. My style in couture is the sensuality and aristocratism.

To view my work you can visit my website which she hopes to have translated into English the first of the year, and you can read her blog here.

It's unbelievable! I still can't believe I have won this place - it is best gift to my birthday that will be 19 November. Fantastic! This season turned out to be very interesting but also difficult for me and for all of us - both physically, psychologically and emotionally. It was a real challenge and I was happy to accept it and overcome all the obstacles.

Thank you guys! Thanks to all of you - the judges, organizers, sponsors and fans. We did it! We are the champions!!! I love CDDC, because it helps to be beyond possible and to perfect skills. Thanks to all of you - the judges,
organizers, sponsors and fans… Irina

Congratulations to our Third Place winner:

Julia Mezrina

Her rewards are Antoinette Intoxicating Outfit Only and Antoinette Flirty Shoe Pack from Tonner Doll Company, and Veronique "Onyx" from Integrity Toys.

Some words from Julia...I still can't believe that I've won the third prize in the CDDC. Only less than a year has passed since I re-discovered fashion dolls for myself and started sewing for them, so this award is really far from being expected. I applied for CDDC mainly in order to test out what I can do.

The contest itself has been an absolutely fantastic experience for me, but sometimes I really had a hard time combining my full-time job as a web designer with making challenge entries. Unfortunately, my site is currently under construction. It’s so hard to design for yourself – especially since I’m the nightmare client any designer is afraid of! But you can view my past work on my Flicr account.

Now after the contest is over I'm left with a completely new attitude towards designing for dolls. I'm taking it seriously, not as a 'cute hobby' as I did before. Maybe one day I'll start up my own brand of doll clothes and jewelry, who knows!?!

I've learned a lot from the judges' comments and I'm extremely grateful to them, as well as to all who organized the whole thing. I never ever regretted I was in! Now I definitely should take some time to get used to life without CDDC…Julia

WINNER OF PEOPLE'S CHOICE:

Susan Grindstaff

Prizes include Haute Traveler Susie from R&D Fashion Dolls as well as Adel "Soul Deep" from Integrity Toys.

Some words from Susan...Overall, CDDC was an interesting, fun experience. This was my first time competing, and it was a real revelation, teaching me a bit about competing in general, and what is expected of you. Judging art is one tough assignment, so our judges were really some brave folks, and I thank them!

I see fashion as an independent art form, and to me couture needs to be above all – unique. Currently, I sell my fashions at VivaLaPosh, and if your cup of tea is a bit of romanticism and drama, be sure to check out my current offerings.

For those who didn't win anything, I hope they realize that their work is as worthy as ours who did. It's all subjective. Anyone can learn to be a better seamstress; the trick is to avoid mimicry and to stick to your own artistic
vision, whatever that may be. Thanks for a great experience!… Susan

WINNER OF PHOTO CONTEST:

Anna Lipka

She will receive In Focus: Digital Photography for the Doll Collector from Pat Henry and Lillith "The Great Pretender" from Integrity Toys.

Some words from Anna...I'm fromPoland, and my two great passions are dolls and sewing...good thing those can be combined. I began with this hobby 5 years ago when, while moving, I found my old Barbie doll from childhood.

You can check out what I am currently selling on eBay in my shop, and you can see my past work on my Flickr account.

I´m delighted with this contest, which has pushed me beyond my limits and brought so much pleasure. Many thanks to everyone who made this happen!...Anna

Uh, oh!! With this last winning announcement, we end this season's blog for Couture Doll Design Challenge. But do not despair, aspiring designers, there are already rumblings of a CDDC3!! And how will you know if that's going to happen?

1. Have faith. 2. Watch this blog. We'll be back if ANY news is forthcoming!

And, in the meantime - enjoy your holidays, and don't forget to always enjoy anything you do relating to your dolls........and couture doll fashions, of course!!

Never a bridesmaid; always a BRIDE!

2010-11-15T10:01:00.000-08:00

The winner of challenge 6 is a newcomer to the world of doll couture, Svjetlana Turk, whom we have all come to know as Lana. Looking at her wonderful interpretation of the avant-garde bridal challenge along with her other entries, it becomes instantly apparent that this designer brought some great skills with her when she began her journey into designing doll couture.

Although she is a chemical engineer by profession, she is definitely an artist at heart. Lana has been sewing since she was 5, and has designed for real people as well as dolls. However, she says creating for dolls allows her to fantasize and realize her true dream, that of being a fashion designer.

Not content to just design and sew couture doll clothing, Lana also does doll repaints, and makes accessories that include shoes, hats, and jewelry. She is constantly working on improving her techniques.

This wife and mother of two beautiful daughters is a Christian artist who enjoys sharing some of her tips an techniques on her blog. She has a new website where you can see her latest creations available for sale. She is also one of the newest members of the CDDC sister site, Couture Doll Shops. She hopes you will visit her often as she is always working on new creations. Congratulations, Lana, your bride is definitely ready for her nuptials to begin.

It's been a long journey for those competing in the Couture Doll
Design Challenge again this time. And I 'm happy to give kudos to Larraine Elcock for making this possible again. I am sure all would agree she has continued to give us a quality competition with fair judges and interesting challenges. So even before we announce the final winners, one's mind races to the inevitable question - will there be another CDDC? This reader/writer would cast a resounding yes vote if she had an opportunity to cast one!

I'd also like to give a little nod to those people in the gallery who secretly played along, entered at home challenges, or helped make bigger decisions by voting for People's Choice winners. And the At Home winners who will be taking home gift certificates are Larraine Elcock and Durelle Brown. Thanks go to Ina Murphey, LaPetite Fashion Promenade, and Mike Austin, Mike's Creations - two of the very talented shop owners on Couture Doll Shops - for providing gifts for these winners.

Well, that's almost it for your blogger for this CDDC - I say almost because the final blog will feature all the final winners and their prizes - what fun!!

STEAMY STEAMPUNK SHOWS STYLE!!

2010-11-08T12:53:00.000-08:00

Yana Emellyanova nails the prize for the Steampunk Challenge making this win number 3 for this talented contender. But I have to say, she also had some staunch competition. These designers certainly stepped up their game.

She nailed military Steampunk spot on. The jacket and pants of her uniform styled fashon were made of silk taffeta, blouse of cotton, and the corset of painted lace. It also featured all the gadgets we normally see with this style.

I must say I could pick out Yana’s outfit as well as several others. I’ve come to know the style of particular artists, a style that wasn’t so evident when this competition first began.

But it is in the styling that a designer makes their mark. Don’t you think of specific things these designers have used time after time while still managing to give their designs a fresh face year after year? You know, the likes of John Galliano, Vivienne Westwood, Betsy Johnson, Dian Von Furstenberg. Whether you like their designs or not – you can always pick them out!! It’s a thrill to see these new designers accomplishing their own style.

Speaking of style, it’s hard not to think of Robert Tonner – goth for dolls and real life clothing. And this year we are delighted to not only welcome back the Tonner Doll Company as one of our sponsors, but to also have Tom Courtney, Art Director, as one of our judges!

The Tonner Doll Company never fails to delight us. From their online presentations of new dolls through Tonner Direct to their Tonner Doll Collectors' Conventions, there is always a way for doll collectors to experience doll beauty with them!!

I say "them" because it does truly take a village to bring to the public all the wonderment Robert Tonner can imagine for us. Shining bright as a legend in our doll world, Robert Tonner is the ultimate face of this great dynasty, but his "village," or staff members, are some of the wonderful people from his company we have also met at conventions or online along the way. You really didn't think Robert, as he is affectionately known by doll lovers, could do all the jobs necessary to bring his many visions to realization, now did you?

One such member of Robert Tonner's winning team is Tom Courtney. Tom is a fun-loving, hard-working, crew member who is also a fellow doll collector. Like many of the designers in our Challenge, Tom not only collects, he also enjoys designing and sewing for his own dolls whenever his busy schedule allows him this pleasure. Among his other avocations are cooking, gardening, and photography.

Tom’s professional life began after college interning for the Department of Navy as a Contracts Specialist, culminating in a 12-year career of cost analysis, negotiation, and procurement of computer equipment, machine tools, and navigation components for the TRIDENT Missile Program. Shifting his focus to the creative, Tom joined Tonner in 2000, and while there has handled production management, marketing, advertising, visual merchandising, web development and most recently, Art Direction.

Many people think Tom designs for Tonner, but in truth, he has never worked under the Design Team. As Art Director, Tom is responsible for the visual promotion and consistency of Tonner Doll via its printed materials, website, photography and trade shows.

It hadn’t been very long when we had this interview that the Tonner Doll Company had moved its offices, so I wanted to know how Tom was enjoying his new digs. I was delighted when he answered, and gave me this interesting tidbit. “Tonner has gone through many changes during my 10 years; but the most interesting has been moving to the historic Bank of New York building in uptown Kingston this past April,” he explains. “We all love the new space…and truly believe we have a couple of ghosts we inherited via the building!” Hum….I wonder if the Tonner crew took them along with them to Burlington, Vermont for their recent 2010 Tonner Halloween Convention themed Mysticism & Mayhem??

I also couldn’t resist asking my fellow doll aficionado about his own doll collection – what he collects, what his favorites are, and where he keeps them all. Like most of us, he was happy to share! Tom has collected dolls for over 25 years; gathering such notables as Barbie, Madame Alexander children, Tonner’s Betsy McCall and Mary Engelbreit, and an extensive collection of various fashion dolls. “In the past three years, however,” Tom says, “Alice in Wonderland has been a large influence on my collection; I’ve been collecting both artist pieces and vintage souvenir dolls sold in the Disney parks.”

Tom doesn’t display them all at home, though – space there is limited and reserved for special artist pieces and his Alice figurine and teapot collection. “My office at Tonner has become my ‘serious’ display space for my favorites these days,” Tom explains. And what are those favorites, I asked? “Right now, I am loving Tonner’s Scarletts – Harry Potter, and Alice. Also, Tyler Wentworth will always be my favorite fashion doll,” Tom replied.

Having seen some of Tom’s wonderful sewing, I asked what dolls he had designed clothing for – as a hobby, of course – to which he replied: “I have designed clothing for Barbie; Madame Alexander’s Cissy, Cissette and Wendy; Tonner’s Betsy McCall and Mary Engelbreit child dolls; Gene, Tonner’s American Models, Kitty Collier, 16” and Fashion dolls such as Tyler and Antoinette.”

And most don’t know, at one time he even accomplished a human scale Gone With the Wind gown for a friend. Scattered throughout this interview are pictures of dolls Tom collects, gowns he’s produced (including the GWTW life-sized), and a very good picture of our most talented and real live doll, Tom Courtney. CDDC is indeed lucky to have him as one of our resident judges!

And how about this last challenge and its judge?? Our final guest judge is the winner of last year's CDDC, Emilia Nieminen. Her fabulous designs and the wonderful creation of those designs brought her to the win. So I think it’s quite appropriate she guest judge the final challenge. This challenge is to create the piece de resistance of any runway...the bridal gown, but a very special bridal gown. The designers are to take their gown to the cutting edge of fashion by making it extremely modern and avant garde.

She certainly knows avant garde as well as every style in the challenges that were thrown at her last year. So that makes it even more interesting that she didn’t plan to be a designer. Her Bachelor’s degree is in business and she has a Master’s Degree in Chinese language. And as a child she preferred the whims of a tomboy to that of a girl who plays with dolls.

Rather it was her interest in her school’s theater group that laid the foundation for her taste for historical elements and her flair for the dramatic. She even spent a semester studying fashion drawing in Shanghai University because she loved designing wedding gowns. She feels it’s the one day when people dare to dress up and wear something special.

Her interest in dolls was sparked by a shopping trip with her sister who introduced her to fashion dolls. After a few shopping sprees on the internet. and a few dolls purchased, she begin to dress these diminutive divas and she was hooked. She says developing a personality with the doll helps her decide which style will suit her best.

So there you have it, a judge who has a vast knowledge of wedding ensembles as well as avant garde. This winning combination should lead to some interesting comments as well as some helpful guidance from this judge.

And now I feel it important to talk about a past judge. This year we lost the incredibly talented Joe Tai. His battle with cancer ended in September. But weren’t we fortunate to have him with us for a time – a time where he not only gave us incredible fashions, but also dolls, shoes, and jewelry? I interviewed Joe during his judging CDDC last year, and he was extremely happy to be a part of this endeavor. We at CDDC were extremely happy to have him. and will always think of him in the fondest way.

Goodbye, Joe Tai, you will be missed!

Details Done Right Are Such A Delight!

2010-10-18T19:39:00.000-07:00

Yana Emellyanova grabbed the brass ring for herself once again by winning Challenge 4! In a move that clearly put her in first place, Yana is now the one to watch if you’re after the win.

I also saw others I honestly desired - yes, the designers have definitely stepped up their game!

This must have been a job for the judges – scoring these pieces. But let me tell you what got the win.

Yana’s outfit gave black and blue new meaning. It featured a flax summer coat with an asymmetrical collar. She decorated the coat using hand embroidery in a pattern that echoed the print of the natural silk chiffon blouse. Rounding out this outfit were wool pants that were a perfect compliment for the other two items. And rounding it out further was restraint in the detailing – for this we say, Kudos, Yana!

I think our guest judge has given great points of reference along with a clear description for Challenge 5, so I am going to take this opportunity to discuss an important consideration for our competitors.

When you take on an online competition like CDDC, one undeniable asset you need is to be able to think and function like a “real” fashion photographer. Competitor and fashion photographers have a common goal; to showcase an ensemble to its best advantage.

But in doll challenges there is one factor that is unique yet very important - the doll actually used as the model is entirely up to us! Long before a challenge garment hits the "runway," styling opportunities become apparent. An artist begins to mentally focus on which doll will wear the garment best about the same time pencil begins to work magic on paper! Who will best fit this garment with both their particular body style as well as their attitude? How should the hair be presented, and will a wigged or rooted hair doll be best for this purpose? Will makeup be necessary in the form of a total repaint or just a little tweaking, or can the doll's "natural" beauty carry off this look just as she is? All of these questions give the fashion doll designer/stylist/photographer many things to ponder.

Of course, there are many other considerations, but I just thought it might be important to articulate that when dealing with dolls and fashion, you don't want overlook an opportunity to use the "likeability" factor to your advantage. Others will, so don't be squeamish about it!!

And on and on go the considerable checklists a CDDC competitor has to develop and conquer if they hope to step beyond the realm of being ordinary in this quite unordinary competition!

And is it worth it? I think, from the comments filtering in from the Yahoo group, one would hear a resounding “YES” from the CDDC competitors even at this late date in the competition. You would also hear something that might be quite surprising. While I don't think there is any doubt that winning is still sweet in any competition, it doesn't seem to have captured the entire focus of these competitors. Many seem to have discovered there is much to be learned from this type competition, and that competing in CDDC is a win-win situation.

Speaking of wins - what of those incrdeditble prizes?? It seems I have inadvertently overlooked telling you about the wonderful DOLLS one might win!!! Here's a recap of the doll and their company, and which winner gets what - all provided by three delicious doll makers!!

R&D DOLLS

Focusing on photography will pay off for the People's Choice winner of R&D Fashion Doll's Haute Traveler Susie. R&D is the brainchild of Rudi Teruel. It opened in May of 1999, and specializes in all types of fashion dolls, but is best known for the creation of their Susie dolls. Since she debuted in 2003 R&D has remained her exclusive dealer, and she has been primped and posed in many delectable ensembles. But the Haute Traveler will afford our winner the ultimate Susie experience because she not only comes with her traveling gear, but she also comes complete with several new outfits! Won't it be fun playing dress up with this one!?!

INTEGRITY TOYS

And then there is the Integrity offering - First, second, third, People's Choice and Photography prizes will be given by Integrity Toys. In order they will include: Lillith "The Great Pretender," Adele "Soul Deep," Veronique "Onyx," Erin "Picture This" Convention exclusive, and Veronique "Stylish Escape" W Club Exclusive. Percy Neusum's extensive experience in the field of doll making shines through Integrity Toys. Excellent customer service, superior engineering, and high end aesthetics have been the norm since these fashion dolls came on the market in 1995. Lights, action, camera - these haughty vixens are ready for their close-ups!!

TONNER DOLL COMPANY

First, Second, and Third Place winners will be getting prizes from Robert Tonner, Tonner Doll Company. In order, their prizes will be Evocative Antoinette, a Tonner Direct Exclusive; Glowing Muse Basic Honey Antoinette with 3 wigs plus Juxtaposed Outfit; and Antoinette Intoxicating Outfit plus Antoinette Flirty Shoe Pack. Since 1991 Robert Tonner has been lending his designing, sculpting, and fashion savvy to the Tonner Doll Company. The lines from the Tonner Doll Company are many and embrace lots of styles. His staff welcomes you warmly by email or phone, and you can always feel assured the dolls and costumes you order from his company will reflect Tonner's desire for perfection. And what fun our own aspiring doll designers will have with these prizes!!

AND WE HAVE A SURPRISE ANNOUNCEMENT!! A new prize has just been added - so everyone really needs to continue stepping up to the plate. As your Blogmeister and Manager of Couture Doll Shops, sister site of CDDC, I am happy to announce we will be furnishing a shop for the winner of these challenges; this prize includes rent for six months and I will facilitate the winner's shop set up/website if they don't already have a website. We want the winner to be rewarded with something that will help them gain more recognition when CDDC ends!

And now on to the road to the end of this competition, our next to last challenge! And this challenge is: Our guest judge this week is well known for her creative work in designing, but has also made Steampunk one of her signature styles. Now if you don't know what Steampunk is then you've got to do your homework to please this judge. This week's challenge is all about the sub culture known as "Steampunk". This unique fashion genre runs the gamut from purely Victorian to post-apocalyptic. Steampunk may take many forms of alternative clothing, often romantic with a twist of futuristic technology. It has been described as Jules Verne meets the Wild Wild West. Just like real life, Steampunk can encompass many aspects of fashion...the explorer/traveler, the air ship pilot, the warrior, the aristocrat, or the mad scientist. To keep with the up and coming fashion trends, such as the new military look for 2010, the twist of this challenge is to create a Steampunk inspired fashion with a military theme.

Yes, this judge has given you invaluable information – have you been attentive? In her own words, “Steampunk is very near and dear to my heart. I fell in love with this form of fashion for my dolls three years ago when no one else was doing the genre. I am a wealth of information and my photo files are loaded with fashions and ideas.” In fact, she even put together a web page for you that serves as a plethora of ideas!!

She's talented and nice, but do NOT be deceived! She will be using her very keen eye to see if you fulfilled her expectations of this challenge!

Will you be the one who can do this? Will you go even further and surprise her?? If you do, you have your work cut out for you for here on this blog is her own interpretation of Steampunk. As you can see, she’s captured several styles well – yes, even a bride that Doll Reader gave free in pattern form through their magazine!

For an artist who started less than 10 years ago, she has proven herself over and over in design challenges and has won many awards.

Most notable have come from both the IFDC and the Tonner Doll Conventions, and she cherishes her crystal awards from the now-defunct BBMA. She's also been published in doll publications we have loved or love currently - FDQ, Doll Reader, Barbie Bazaar and Haute Doll.

This single mother of three grown boys has been a Barbie collector since childhood. When she isn’t playing with her granddaughter or doing her regular job as an Interior Designer, you will see her stealing away to her studio. She always takes plenty of time for research, then like a mad scientist she begins the journey – a journey to some quite incredible work!

But not all is fun and games. Some designs she makes for her doll shop on Couture Doll Shops, Chic Indulgence; some she makes for conventions -- both competition and charity dolls; and the balance goes to making the prototypes for clothing used by Charisma for dolls designed by Marie Osmond and others. Check out her website for more information. We are indeed lucky to have Durelle Brown as a guest judge, and I hope you will listen to her critiques carefully. Listen and learn what you might, because it is a rare opportunity to learn from such a busy, talented lady!

Decadantly Delightful Deconstruction

2010-10-07T15:15:00.000-07:00

For Challenge 3 Yana Emellyanova says she tried creating an outfit with an unusual jacket design that featured ripped edges of the materials. Jacket and hat were made of Italian wool, and the skirt was made of silk and decorated with ruffles of different shades of brown. Today she's quite happy she did, as the judges declared her the winner!!

Yana doesn't come from a family of professional seamstresses, but her Grandmother and Mother had great passions for fashion. In fact, her Mom seemed to always be sewing her something, and their house in Russia always had a lot of scraps of fabric. And, it was her Mom who presented her with a Barbie doll when she was 12 years old, and she then begin sewing dresses for her doll. But that fell away like many childhood things.

She always wanted to have a daughter to share her love of dressing dolls with. Instead she had a precious baby boy, but decided to return to her passion for sewing for her dolls, anyway, three years ago. About eight months ago she got her little girl. She's still too small to share with and makes time for Yana's passion limited - but somehow she's juggling Motherhood with getting through CDDC - and we're glad she is!

Silkstone dolls and retro style are things Yana loves. She seeks realism in doll clothes, and is most happy when her designs develop into looking like a small copy of an actual human-size outfit. She creates all her own patterns to ensure the fit and style she desires.

Yana_emelyanova is her username on Ebay, but she uses her nickname Yy generally, and Yasya on the Russian web blogs. You can also see more of her work on her Flikr account.

The most courageous act is still to think for yourself. Aloud.

Coco Chanel

Soooooooo, in listening to our designers and reading the scores, it looks like a little Doll Couture 101 might be helpful. However, before beginning, the CDDC designers might want to consider one thing. Anything that is written except pure scientific research has the possibility of conveying opinions from the one writing it. Therefore, if anything written in this blog doesn't meet with a designer's definition of how to design for a specific challenge. that designer should swiftly abandon this blog's definitions! Creation is an extension of YOU, and extending YOU has no place for another person's opinion in the equation!!

When we put ourselves in a competitive position we are allowing ourselves to be evaluated by judges whose opinions we respect. No, that doesn't make it easier when we get a scalding review, but it sure makes it sweet when we have an overwhelming win! So, in my mind, we must come to a balance in our design work that allows us to happily compete. We must decide what is important - pleasing ourselves or going for the win - or if we could conceivably do both!?! We must decide if we have satisfied the definition of the challenge or if a judge's critique or suggestions known ahead of time would have made us change our design to more perfectly elaborate on the demands of a challenge. It's a thin tightrope one walks when we choose to compete........now on to Doll Couture 101...if you desire!

What is your lifestyle today, dahlings? Have you traded in your designer duds for something a bit more comfortable? For a majority of the adult doll collectors this is the case. Yes, there are some professionals in the mix, but young housewives/househusbands and retirees make up the majority of this populace. So it only makes sense for them to cast away constricting garments for things that are cute and comfortable. However, the seamstresses in this group know that neither cute nor comfortable have any place in the world of couture they love, so it is quite natural that many are turning to their dolls to fulfill their passion for fashion.

They run for the brass ring in most cases - not content to do ready to wear; rather they find this the perfect opportunity to design and master couture clothing for their diminutive divas. Well, why not? A small investmet will give you the perfect fashion doll to model garments. And, whether one favors the larger ladies or the original 11.5" darlings, any one you choose will be waiting patiently to accept fittings for hours on end. She won't complain or argue and never needs a break! Obtaining that sumptious fabric notable in couture clothing won't break the bank, either. Most designs can be made from a yard or less of fabric, thus presenting the perfect opportunity to splurge and get the best to be found!

For those just starting out in this world of Doll Couture it may be valuable to have a little explanation of exactly what it is, Doll Couture is neither haute couture scaled down nor is it the simple designs achievable through standard dressmaking. Doll Couture is defined by quality craftsmanship, luxurious fabric and findings, and uniquely new creative designs. It is a procedure that is bringing doll dressmaking to a whole new level! Execution is often time-consuming and may demand elaborate findings, but the results are far more rewarding than any simple doll dress could afford the serious adult collector.

Three important considerations when working with Doll Couture are proper proportion, movement in the design, and appropriate fabric choices. As one develops their own style other concerns may be added to one's personal list, but these basic three factors remain constant considerations for one who aspires to be a designer of Doll Couture.

Anyone who wants to achieve the status of a respected Doll Couture Designer must learn to conquer a complex balancing act. In most cases we have to compensate because fashion dolls have larger heads and hands, longer legs, and more tiny feet than their human counterparts... Face it, even runway models don't have bodies that are quite so elongated or slenderized!! Therefore, it is important to balance the design on this body of unequal proportions while accomplishing the challenge of appealing to the audience's natural sense of rhythm. As one works with their own doll they must work with a critical eye. Stepping back to assess the overall scale of the doll will often make things out of proportion appear more clearly. A critical eye is often hard to develop, however, because in doing this one may conjur up self doubt. But. be assured. once one moves past this they will not only realize their design problems; they will also begin to learn how to compensate for them. Yes, right now you may love an elaborate hair style or a hat used by your favorite designer without even thinking it could be a means to compensate for the doll's body length's unequal proportion. But upon developing your own critical eye, you should really begin to move toward understanding how different waist heights, collar treatments, hemlines, and even accessories can serve as catalysts for the balance and proportion you seek.

When talking about movement we don't mean this literally as I cannot imagine doll companies designing a walking fashion doll. Rather, we are looking toward building a sense of movement and energy into our designs. Creating this type movement doesn't always require a lot of time; rather it takes a bit of ingenuity. Take a moment and you might recall seeing some of these techniques. Simple flowing ribbons can provide space in a design especially when the ribbons are flowing away from the body. In this way the ribbons actually displace space around the doll quite like a tulle stole can when it stands out from the doll's body. Articles of clothing with graduating hemlines - shorter in front, moving to full length in the back - softly suggest movement as can certain fabrics. For example, a silk brocade that provides a subtle shimmer factor can work as effectively as one that incorporates beadwork, sequins, or even crystals when the sparkle it provides is sufficient to equal movement and energy. And few could dispute how color and light can attract an audience. Incorporate any of these suggestions or your own personally devised movement makers, and you will distance yourself from the dullness of a static display.

Fabric, especially the weight of the fabric, must also be considered. In Doll Couture you not only have to allow for the turn of the fabric in joining seams, you must also allow for the bulk that often accumulates in a doll's garment. Most find that more light to mid weight fabrics work best, but the quality in these weights can be less than desireable; but silk is a fabric that always seems to please. There are others, of course, but my motto is give me silk, anytime!!

Many prefer silk because it is a natural fabric that it relatively easy to work with. It can be purchased in a myriad of beautiful colors, and is available in several weaves including satin, velvet, dupioni, twill, brocade, and even tulle. Even if one is designing vintage style clothing, silk is probably a safe choice; after all it has existed for many centuries. For linings one can use a duplicate of the original fabric, but many favor light cotton muslin, batiste, or even a soft silk organza. The preferred colors are white or beige but line one must! It not only gives garments a finished look, but, in some cases, lining provides the very needed function of preventing dye from discoloring your doll's body.

Small prints and findings are usually best used for Doll Couture. Always keep in mind, if you sew for several size dolls, as the height of the doll decreases so should your prints and findings. Busy prints not only look odd, they actually serve to distract from your design. Likewise, larger trims such as out of scale buttons or overblown bows may only serve to overwhelm your doll. Remember, don't confuse couture with avant garde; couture does not require such extreme decoration. In confusing these two styles your couture can quickly move to a tackier state than anyone would desire. It is certainly best when designing Doll Couture to do it with a Chanel attitude; when you think you are finished, remove one item. This worked for Chanel when accessorizing an outfit, and it will work for you when embellishing your Doll Couture!

The current challenge is to creature Haute Couture Daywear paying particular attention to the little details. You may want to consider, trims, belts, buckles, buttons, jewelry, hats, embroidery, and anything else that adds detail to your creation. And our guest judge this week knows all the rules for designing and presenting Doll Couture to his public with splendid, perfectly scaled details!

Steven Fraser is the very talented President of Masterstroke Canada, and the designing force behind Dressmaker Details and Dressmaker Details Couture. His Dressmaker Details Couture represents the fine quality fashions present in any couture house in Paris. It is literally a return to a bygone era of quality doll fashions. No detail is overlooked, and each outfit is made from the finest materials.

Steven is also always in tune with the wants and needs of his clientele. Therefore, affordability has been a big focus for Steven recently. He is currently doing more pink label fashions (affordable pak pieces). He also did a line of 16" fashions for Gene and AG dolls that came out this past June.

In addition to his fashions, Steven sells the world's finest ribbons and trims. These popular items have gained quite a bit of notoriety through its sales at marthastewart.com, and features on HGTV, House & Home, Style at Home, Home & Country.com, and Lucky Magazine. One of his items always in demand are smaller ribbons.

He initially offered small scale ribbons to fill a demand from many doll artistts. This line now also offers notions. Be sure to click on Dressmaker Details on the sidebar of this blog to access his wonderful site.

PIPPI'S STOCKINGS NOT TOO LONG!!

2010-09-21T11:08:00.000-07:00

Michael Angelo Calvo, or Anj as he prefers to be called, is relatively new to the world of customizing dolls and creating fashions for them. His work includes repainting, rerooting, and making clothing for his fashionistas. Fashion is a passion for Anj - in fact so much so that he enrolled himself in a fashion school in his native Philippines.

One sixth scale dolls are his dolls of choice because making small scale details offer him the most challenge. It is no small feat to accomplish small scale details - it is an achievement to get the look you want, says Anj.

Anj had fun with this challenge. He gave his model a full repaint including freckles, and managed to make Pippi Longstocking an outfit that captured "...Pippi's spirit of fun and playfulness but with style," according to this artist. It was a step outside his box of creating celebrity dolls and OOAK high fashion dolls.

It was a tough, fun competition for Anj but he is already thinking of his next challenge; he is thinking to beat his talented competitors he might have to step up his game plan!! Think you have the formula to compete with this prize winner? Browse his Flickr photo album or view his delightful blog to find out!!

And before we know it the designs for the next challenge will be appearing!! CHALLENGE THREE is titled Fashion Falls Apart, a theme yet again that revolves around its guest judge, Dal Lowenbein. This challenge is all about fabric and the deconstruction of it. The designers are to design an Haute Couture garment in the newest, hottest style of deconstruction. They were advised using ripped seams, stringy hems, slices of zipped and vandalized denim, as well as rumpled fabrics could be the key to this win.......all done, of course, while keeping it couture! Oh my - that twist will get you every time!!

Boy this is a doozy because deconstruction of clothing, in my mind, walks a fine tightrope between two opposing thought patterns. One, deconstruction involves redesigning or resewing used, sometimes vintage, clothing into a new garment. And, two, most notable in the fashion deconstruction world is the genre of grunge clothing. While some may turn their nose up to either concept, they both fit this challenge, BUT the twist brings it back to the reality of making such clothing couture - thank goodness. Can't you just imagine what fun our designers might have??

While couture clothing would dictate using the finest fabrics, it doesn't hurt to at least look amongst local thrifts for particularly well made treasures of the past. One never knows what will inspire.

For example, on a recent thrift shop forage, I picked up some remarkably beautiful garments that one would have a hard time describing as used.......once deconstructed, of course. They included grand items such as novelty buttons, fine lace, a remarkable fashion print with tiny fashionistas, and even a little E monogram I may one day use for my dear Ellowyne!

But to "really" get to the bottom of deconstruction one must also consider grunge clothing! Who would have thought a fashion trend would rise from a style literally named for garbage, the slang name, of course. From the late 80s rockers have been bridging the fashion gap with their jaded clothing that rides the range from infomality to decadence. Think of the clothing of wonders like Nirvana and Pearl Jam. Then bring it back to fashion reality by looking at the 1992 Spring/Summer collection for Perry Ellis. Marc Jacobs designed it, and he listened to his inner visionary. Thank goodness Anna Wintour, editor of Vogue, gave him all the support he needed to make this "new" fashion trend real!!

Although the more "traditional" grunge style hasn't gone away, today's Reconstruction ala grunge is definitely a more Rock- chic romantic version of grunge. Today's trends are designed for the new princes and princesses of fashion who have learned it's most chic to leave their more yuppie looking choices in their closets. Skinny pants, camouflage, leather, ripped tops, flannel shirts, and Doc Martens are a few things on their list of must haves currently. Grunge is no longer a cry of revolt against luxury; moreover, it is embraced and embellished, even using frayed cotton with sequins - it definitively reconciles the apparently irreconcilable. This new grunge means luxury, romance and glamour - all traits that call out couture!!

So, as our designer's mind travel over possibilities to achieve the look required to win this challenge, one would hope they would move past tearing up tee shirts or ripping jeans. They might want to think more obscenely expensive - looking to designer labels, using the military style jacket of Balmain, or even the more stylish plaids used forever by so many. Rip it, unzip it, and cut it up - but in the end be sure it is something so decadantly delightful that the judges cannot help but give our desingers grand reviews - and most of all to help them on their quest towards that perfect score!!

And who would know better about perfect scoring and rave reviews than our remarkably talented guest judge, Dal Lowenbein? Dal has collected dolls for almost fifteen years, but has only been designing for them for ten of them. Her "real" job gives her an opportunity to do costume design work as well as designing for packaging, print, promotion and theatre; she has been in the graphics business for over 25 years. She prides herself first, though, as being a mother of three talented children. wife to one hubby, and owned by two chihuahuas. She also feels lucky to have a cheering squad of good friends!

Her personal doll collecting is best described as eclectic. She began her collecting with vintage Barbie, Bild Lilli and cloned Hong Kong Lilli dolls. But it was her discovery of Momoko in 2002 that gave her the desire to branch out.

Her collecting then led her to various new and vintage dolls such as vintage Licca, Blythe, and Pullip. She feels she really came full circle though when she began collecting fashion dolls such as Tonner, Ellowyne Wilde and Sybarites. And, currently, she is "re-discovering" Integrity & Fashion Royalty dolls.

Dal loves sewing and challenges, and has used many different fabrics in her quest to design innovative fashions for her doll divas. She first came into my headlights when I noticed her entries in the original Project Dollway At Home Competition hosted by Ted Menten.

Since then she has done several competitions, and was able to do a final version of PDollway At Home and CDDC concurrently, AND to come out as the Second Place Winner of BOTH – what dedication to doll artistry this must have involved. Fueled with her varied asemblage of dolls and her love of doll design, Dal hopes to have her website of custom doll fashion up and running very soon. Until then be sure to visit her blog for more information about Dal.

Not your Grandma’s Gothic!

2010-09-08T05:20:00.000-07:00

Susan Grindstaff
Her pink & black takes a Gothic track

Didn’t you get the feeling you had stepped into a new wave of Gothic fashion designers when you opened the Challenge One Entries page? Well, good; I wasn’t alone!! If these beginning challenge entries are building up to better and better eye candy in the future, will we be able to stand it? I certainly intend to try – and I’ll bet you do too!

More on the overall competition in a minute, but first let me introduce the official winners!! Susan Grindstaff ended up taking dual wins – she achieved Overall Winner from the judges, and People’s Choice for Creative Photography. Susan’s design spoke to characters such as those I had seen in the Book of Eli; characters living in a world not of their choosing who were looking for something more to fulfill their lives than what fate had dealt them.

Susan comes to sewing and design work naturally through the influence of her talented mother who worked as a seamstress to help support the family. In fact Susan says “… it is from her that my passion for creating something unique and original was derived.” She spent 15 years designing for real people before she discovered how versatile and rewarding it could be designing for our diminutive divas – and she loves it. Naturally Susan designs all her creations, and makes patterns for each one, too.

Congratulations to Susan for a job well done!

Vikki Stevenson captured the People’s Choice for Favorite Designer this round. Having only discovered fashion dolls two years ago, it looks like Vikki lost no time catching up! She now collects and sews for Silkstones, Ellowyne, Evangeline, Tyler, AvantGards and Sybarites in a little town that doesn’t even have a fabric store! Congratulations, Vikki, you’ve obviously used your ingenuity to make both wonderful doll fashions as well as doll friends.

The People’s Choice polls have always been popular, and not only do we have them for the CDDC designers, we also have them for a new competition just added! The newest feature at CDDC is our At Home version. In this competition you only need be a member of CDDC’s Yahoo Group to play. You take the challenges right along with the official entrants, and enter them in the photo albums of the group on designated dates, and then wait for the results of another People’s Choice poll to find out if you have won enough votes to win a prize.

This week's winners are Durelle Brown, Sue Townson, and Vicky Lujan - congrats to each of you. Remember, you cannot win if you don't play - so scurry on over, my lovelies; it's fun to enter as well as watch!

And what about those judges?? This year I’m getting more than I hoped for, and it makes me VERY happy. To have people I look up to give some overall insight into how the entries measured up and some tips for improvement, makes for even more insightful – and perhaps beneficial – reading for both the audience and the designers doing this challenge. Be sure you check out all the notes and final scores on the Official CDDC Scores Page.

And what about those returning sponsors? I think it speaks highly of this competition that so many of our sponsors from last year have pitched their hat back in the ring to do it again!

Two such sponsors are Lyn Waring’s Dress Forms for Fashion Dolls and Tamara Casey’s Designs by Jude. Lyn Waring designs patterns for slopers for your dolls that actually fit – how great not to have to mess up our dolls with fittings anymore. She offers most styles, so you’ll be delighted checking out what Lyn offers!

And one only needs to cruise through all the wonderful patterns and notions Tamara has to offer to realize they are in a sewing wonderland. Check it out today and then go back often – new things are always coming into this site. I’m sure the contestants who won offerings from these great companies can tell you how beneficial both companies are to designers! Thanks once again for your participation, Lyn and Tamara, by providing prizes for each of the winning contestants!

Well, kiddos, that’s it for this time. I hope you are getting some inspiration to sew or to buy some new duds for your dollies! Tune in next week for information on the next challenge….you never know what juicy tidbits I’ll dig up…er find out for your reading pleasure. And, be sure to watch for big doings over at our sister site’s blog on Friday 9/10!!

Which way should we go, Alice!?!

2010-08-31T09:18:00.000-07:00

Welcome to Fashionland!!

When I first saw Challenge 2 - well actually the companion video, I was almost drooling at the thought of the mahvelous concoctions Alice In Wonderland could inspire! However, the CDDC contestants (and moi) were quickly brought down to reality with the now almost expected...you guessed it...twist! They were going to be designing an ensemble inspired by a character from children's literature - mostly heroes/heroines, of course. That's because heroes/heroines have a distinct style, you see! And a new look must be designed for their subject, using colours and a style that was true to their character's taste!

Okay, who were my heros and heroines, I thought, still fuming at losing Alice as the total focus of this challenge! Why of course, this was too simple.........for me! Too bad I'm not even in this competition!! But, anyway, in my mind the consumate hero would have to be Prince Charming!! Well, hasn't he shown up in every fairy tale from Snow White to Sleeping Beauty with a whole lot of heroines for him to rescue thrown into the mix - think Cinderella.

Although they were only being rescued from being Old Maids,

some by sleeping, some by continuing to exist ever so boringly,

he was still a Prince!

Compare the pictures of a Prince dressed more traditionally, to the one dressed by Jean Paul Gaultier.

Swoon! While he is a hunk - in my mind this is more what the

Prince would be wearing in the more relaxed atmosphere AFTER

the wedding than during a rescue. Oh dear, indeed, this would

never do!

When that didn' t work out I turned to one of my most fave characters - Peter Pan and, of course, Tink! A dubious hero by hero standards!

You know, I doubt J. M. Barrie ever imagined how this character would be developed! I can't think he imagined his bright eyed boy would ever be played by Ms. Mary Martin!?!

Hum....so which way should I go?? Well, patootey, as I looked over many stylings of Peter, I can't say I found anything very interesting!!

So I decided to stick with the modern day movie version and just dress Tinkerbell. Can't you just imagine her in this dreamy design where Elle Saab gives us a glimpse into a world of fairy tale beauty?? Hum.....this definitely has possibilities - only thing is will the judges really identify her as a hero like I do?? Dang, perhaps another pass!?!

Gosh, all this thinking had this diva dizzy!! So my mind went back to my sweet Alice. I thought using her could still be justified. However, one would have to be very clever using a character from this tale. After all the guest judge, David Buttry, is also the creator of the fabulous Alice companion doll for the 2010 IFDC Convention. David certainly moved her into the 21st Century while keeping her original style, so how could anyone compete against him??

No problem, I thought, "I am not one of the contestants," were the last words I remember as I floated off to dreamland...all the while spilling my tea cake and tea all over the carpet!! Yes, I was drifting off to my own fashion Wonder...er Fashionland...a place where fashion rules and Alice (and her friends) really rock! A place I cannot imagine Lewis Carroll envisioned when he wrote his fantasy novella, Through the Looking-Glass.

The main costume of my dream doesn't belong to Alice at all, though! After I got past the makeup - think eyebrows - I realized Colleen Atwood had designed the most perfect Princess dress I have ever seen for the White Queen!

Yes, this White Queen, who could be considered a protagonist and ally to Alice, wore this diaphanos beauty well!

Anne Hathaway's character fits right in with her fashion, and I think this design is most appropriate for a Queen who doesn’t walk, but instead floats. She is very eccentric and dramatic - in my opinion - think diva!!

“I’m Late, I’m Late!” I thought I could hear off in the distance. The White Rabbit was constantly fussing about time, so any fashion influenced by him would need to incorporate it!

And I cannot think of anyone who did it with such fashion flair as well-known U.K. photographer Rebecca Parkes. Teamed with U.K. make-up artist Sarah Terry, hairstylist Sean Butt, and designer Bibian Blue, Parkes created a dark vision of the Rabbit.

The team used, said Parkes, "...a look perhaps from the Victorian and Edwardian eras that was created with more than just a hint of mischief!" I vote we follow him...er her and them down that path, shall we?

Then, again, my thoughts crept back to Alice, and of course the twins, the caterpillar, Johnny...er Mad Hatter, and others come to mind. Each one could actually inspire a more up to date frock of a character from children's literature - the new directive I heard on the CDDC group. Yes, it's true Alice's frineds weren't heros/heroines, but they were definitely among the characters immortalized in all different forms around the world!

From the moment the whisperings began about Tim Burton's latest movie, designers of all kinds went totally mad, mad, mad about using Wonderland characters as their muse! I say designers of all kinds because items from makeup to home interior, and even edible delicacies, began showing up with an obvious Alician/Wonderlandish influence. The items would be far too many for me to comment on here, so I have developed a little slide show - without music - to show you a little of what I mean: (Notice any difference between Disney's original, and the Disney of today - oh my!!)

Play Me!

And that was the last of my sweet dream, and the last of the examples of literature musings I will offer. Instead I will put my pouting for Alice & company aside, and await with gleeful anticipation what the designers have to offer this time - weren't those Gothic numbers dreamy??

Featured this week are David Buttry, guest judge, and Rob Thompson, permanent judge.

DAVID BUTTRY - Guest Judge Deux

Some of you might have remembered David Buttry from Integrity who was nice enough to serve as a guest judge in the original CDDC. David has always been a doll collector, specifically of fashion dolls, because his sisters and mother collected dolls. David not only designs dolls today, but he is also a graphic designer who is well known for his logos and other fashion doll illustrations - in fact that's the original job he snared at Integrity Toys. He has worked under Vaughn Sawyers and Jason Wu, but David has a style all his own.

His work with Integrity does include illustration as well as design for ads and packaging, and even working with the doll design team.

But the general public probably knows him better for the doll lines he's worked on that include Misaki, Dynamite Girls, and most recently, Poppy Parker. He works on doll designs that include loads of personality, and designed the doll that inspired this challenge - the IFDC Alice in Wonderland companion doll. David has been published in Fashion Doll Quarterly, and other popular doll magazines.

ROB THOMPSON - New Resident Judge

Rob initially served as a guest judge on the original CDDC. Since then he has been busy with conventions; especiallly this spring and summer. He did the Grant A Wish convention in Livonia Michigan, IFDC in Las Vegas, and Barbie Convention in Cleveland. So far this year, his charity auction dolls at these events have raised over $5,000 for the various charities. He will be at the Fashion Royalty convention in Pittsburgh in October to round out his convention season, so should any of my viewers like to meet him, Rob is always up for that, too!

Rob also continues to teach workshops at IFDC, as well as doing collaborations with Steven from Dressmaker Details, and Randall Craig on charity auction dolls. And he is currently working on articles for Fashion Doll Quarterly including one about the charity auction he will soon be running personally. For the FR convention he is planning on getting back to his roots of sewing and fashion, so he will be doing more fashions than ever before for convention.

Besides dolls, Rob's interests include anything vampire related - he loves the Vampire Chronicles, True Blood, the Twilight Saga, as well as many other vampire related books, movies, and TV shows. He is also addicted to the PlayStation Final Fantasy games, and has been playing the Sims on his PC since the beginning! He loves so many different music icons...from Lady Gaga to Stevie Nicks! In fact, when he was in Vegas this summer for IFDC,, he had to make a trip back to the Cher shop at Caesars Palace to pick up the show program and some tour goodies. Rounding out his collections are those developed around his loves Japanese anime, Japanese culture and Hello Kitty stuff! In fact he has a Hello Kitty themed cell phone! I suspect he's just a kid at heart!

In fashion, Rob's a bit more serious. He loves everything from vintage Haute Couture to the very cutting edge Avant Guard. His favorite modern designer was Alexander McQueen, but he also loves Alexander Wang, Jason Wu, Heatherette, Dior, Dolce & Gabbana, miu miu, Nina Ricci, Vivian Westwood, Betsy Johnson, and Atsuko Kudo; just to mention a few.

In vintage fashion houses his favorites are Chanel, Valentino, and Givenchy, along with many others. He like his fashion to be forward looking even if vintage inspired. He adores seeing little modern updates to vintage design, and thinks styling is as important as the design in the overall look. He keeps up with the latest fashion through his addiction to magazines, and freely admits he subscribes to and reads a ton of them including, Vogue, Elle, Bazaar, Marie Clair, W, Esquire, GQ, Details, along with other interesting fashion magazines he finds when he is out and about. Fashion also plays a part in his movie preferences as he spends many happy hours watching old movies, and independent and foreign films while working on his doll designs.

And now for the juicy part you've been waiting for - Rob 's criteria for judging other people's work as well as his own!

"Details, details, details…. The scale has to work for every item in a fashion. The scale of fabric is critical to the design as well as the weight of the fabric choice. If any part of the fashion is oversized in scale, then there has to be a reason, and it has to work. I look for how the item fits. There is no excuse for a poorly fitted garment when you have 2 weeks to make it. I look for originality, as well as how creatively the designer tackled the challenge. I look at how the fashion is finished -- every detail counts. Finally, I look at the overall image: How is the doll styled? Styling is as important as the design in the overall look. No matter the skill set in sewing, the fashion should look as if time were spent in the design process, and in the fabrication process, as well as looking as if some thought was put into the overall finished look of the design. Details matter, and as always, I am not afraid of giving a zero when scoring!! Put thought into the work, and don’t waste our time with less than the best you can do."

Well, I guess he told us! But before you think Rob is a curmudgeon, take some time to visit his website and his delightful dolls, and even talk to him sometimes on the CDDC Board - Rob promises to be more active there during the competition! Rob is really a nice guy......he just knows what he wants in fashion!

All right, I'm going to fly back to my nest, little birdies. But I'll be back with the news of Challenge One's winner before you know it - ooooooooooh, such anticipation!! I guess we can all just go play dolls until the results are ready.

Keep Putting that Best Foot Forward

2010-08-19T09:25:00.000-07:00

She walks in beauty, like the night

Of cloudless climes and starry skies;

And all that’s best of dark and bright

Meet in her aspect and her eyes:

Thus mellow’d to that tender light

Which heaven to gaudy day denies.

- Lord Byron

Take a walk with me on the path of dark beauty I'm imagining Lord Byron speaks of. This is my particular fancy, but I respect that it may not be yours.

I throw this out there as a whimsy - merely something for you to ponder and accept or reject as it fits YOUR particular fashion sensibility. Always remember, no matter what you see or read - you have to always stay true to YOUR own vision!

Gothic is used to describe some of the most beautiful literature and architecture ever developed, most hailing from Renaissance times. And it is this type of fashion I desire. This type of gothic fashion I crave can depict death, war, and any of the many bloody, moody feelings of the shady sisters who wear them, while still being capable of rocking a runway. I want fashions that will make me scream!! Scream for more, more, more, of this specific kind of beauty from designers who venture down this dark and dreary path I love.

No Lolita types or harajuku girls for me. My style is sophisticated, and a far cry from sweet. It also doesn't veer off on a path of nose rings, tattoos, or safety-pinned garments, although I realize these elements are often used in gothic fashion of today. However, I am aware of many different styles of gothic because I've done my research. And I believe research can be the key for designers who wish to unlock their gothic style.

A true aspiring fashion designer, in my mind, needs to research all types of a genre to determine what best suits their aesthetic vision. Then if one digs rockin' a runway with a handcuffed wench, I'd be the last to rain on their parade. In fact, don't tell anyone, but I always love to be proven WRONG. All I care about is finding somehing scrumptious for my devine divas! So scoot on over to the library or surf the internet - YOU may define THE gothic look of tomorrow!

Okay, designers, you've heard my opinion, but do YOU have this challenge all figured out by now – or not?? If not, perhaps your guest judge may give you some insight….but first, the challenge:

Challenge 1 - Guest Judge Lori Lyon

Our first guest judge was the winner of the CDDC People's Choice last year. She was also the winner of this challenge in the first CDDC, so Larraine felt she should be the one to judge it.

This challenge is our little tribute to the King of Shoes, Joe Tai, who is very ill at this time. We want to wish Joe all the best and send our good thoughts and wishes to let him know we are thinking of him.

The first challenge will be to find a special pair of shoes and design an outfit around them...the twist...this shoe and design creation must be Gothic!!

Lori was gracious enough to give me some insight into judging this Gothic challenge.

When I talked with her, she wasn’t even sure there were enough Gothic shoes out there to get you inspired, so she suggested a bit of embellishment or that even creating your own shoes “might” be the key. That’s what she did to win this challenge, but for other Gothic offerings she's selected one of the styles now on the market.

“Even though I don't do too much Gothic inspiration in my designs, I do find it interesting, and I really love the Gothic and Lolita looks for inspiration. I also love watching Anime with my daughter which has these types of looks - also Japanese culture.”

She also advised we look at what is new. " There is a lot of goth style inspiration on the Fall 2010 ready to wear lines also. Runway shows and articles about current designs are great sources to reference."

And when pushed further for specifics, she replied, “ The one thing I will look at is if they really put thought into their design to make it cohesive-and whether they did their research on the subject. Also less is more sometimes - always stand back and look at your design! If you are unsure and think maybe something is too much - it probably is.

Most of all, I will look very closely at construction and fit – I am a stickler for both these things. I will take into account those that maybe are less experienced seamstresses, though.”

And she continued, “I'm hoping to see some really original designs out there. With this challenge you can get pretty creative with shape, and it doesn't always have to be black!

A tip: "I would steer away from doing black because it does not photograph as well and it makes it hard to see the details. If you noticed when I was in the competition last year, I only used black in the last challenge, and then it was a print. I steered away from black for a reason. It doesn't photograph well for competition.

However, it's not that I will judge anyone differently if they use black- I want everyone to use what inspires them. It's just an inside tip that I felt worked for me."

Thanks, Lori, this has been short, but very informative, I told her as she sped off to meet her latest deadline. But before she was completely out of ear shot, I heard one more thing, “Oh! The other thing is they should include in their short description of their design EXACTLY what led them to their interpretation to be sure we know how they meant it to be interpreted.

You can also look at HER pictorial bio on the Couture Doll Shop blog! Just scroll down the page. Remember, artist’s create what they like and I’ll just bet Lori isn’t into creating what she doesn’t feel will please her as well as the public – and occasionally, even a few judges of her own!!

Which brings us to another interview, one that will tell you what another judge expects overall in this competition. Judith Markich was one of our regular judges last year who will be continuing with this year's competition.

Her bio from last year is located on this blog at the bottom of the page. However, her time since the bio hasn't included much doll work. I'm afraid she's been somewhat overwhelmed by all the things she wants to do now that she and hubby are empty nesters!

However, Judith always enjoys sewing for the Modern Doll Collectors Convention. She likes to do an outfit for their charity event every year, and she passed along some pictures and a video of hers for our viewing pleasure! It features the conventon's theme of Kaleidoscope. Caution: Video contains music!

She also offered this insight into her judging: "My passion is for detail and proportion. Something out of scale added to an outfit can change the whole perception of the look. I also like to see a thought process behind an outfit emerge in the design." Ah, can you see what she's talking about in her Evangeline's outfit?? Can you meet her requirements while keeping your vision?? Guess we will find out soon!

And that's all the Goth tips or Judges info you'll pry out of me this week. But I didn't want to close this blog without pointing out some of the blog entries that exist about photography. Now don't get me wrong - I'm no expert - I'm just giving you information I've found along the way. However, the information for preparing pictures should be spot on as I coordinated with Larraine when I wrote it last year.

You Oughta Be In Pictures shows some novel info about photography, and gives tips on staging, backgrounds - well you get the picture. And When Size Matters deals with picture size, photo editing programs, etc. that you might want to be aware of before sending in your entry pictures. And, if all else fails, you can always buy the fabulous photography book from one of our sponsors, Pat Henry, of Fashion Doll Quarterly magazine.

Pat Henry's fantastic take on fashion doll photography, FDQ: In Focus, Digital Photography for the Doll Collector.covers everything from selecting cameras to setting up your photo studio, and many other wonderful tidbits. Take a test drive by checking out the FREE preview located here in pdf format. This is definitely something I'd recommend for your fashion library if you love designing and photographing your dolls!!!

Okay, my lovelies, I'm going to slither back into my cave and get ready for cocktails with Ms. Elvira. But if anyone reproduces the guy in my opening picture, send him my way - I happen to have a diva doll or two that would find him quite delicious.........IF they can pry him away from ME!!