Belindabilly Blog

Hello Again!

2012-02-18T15:05:00.000-06:00

It's been a while since I have updated this blog, and in about a week, you'll be able to see why...on the runway at DC Fashion Week! My fall 2012 collection, Night Flight of Dread and Delight is not only my first full collection - with 12 looks consisting of 21 garments - but it is also my first foray into fashion week, and I can tell you, I'm excited! But I am also very proud - not in the egotistical sense, but in the feeling of accomplishment. I am also proud to say that 100% of the collection is eco-friendly, and I am proud to find so many companies and manufacturers combining organic and earth friendly materials with great design and sustainable practices. That is why I have decided to update this blog now - to showcase these materials and their creators.

I will begin, as interesting stories often do, at the end. And, in sewing, that is usually the buttons.

I found these awesome buttons from WoodButtons.com, which were perfect for this collection as I wanted something that looked like an owl eye. At first I thought I would just have to use teddy bear eyes, but those are either plastic (fossil fuels) or glass (which takes a lot of energy), not to mention it would ship from half way around the world! So, enter Wood Buttons to save the day. I'll let them explain the rest:

Our wood and corozo are sourced from 100% renewable resources. For every two trees we cut, we plant three! We care about the planet and so should you.

and

You're buying from an authentic American company; not a trade company with a factory overseas. We manufacture everything right here in Brooklyn, USA.

That last part is just as important. What's the point of buying organic or renewable materials, if they're being manufactured by wage slaves and being shipped hundreds of miles, using fossil fuels? Just something to think about when using bamboo fabrics... but that's a topic for another post.

For now, check out this great company and all the interesting designs they have!

Beauties and their Beasts

2011-10-17T15:23:00.002-05:00

As promised, I am posting a selection of photos from a recent photo shoot of the fall collection, La Belle and Le Bete, inspired by early hollywood monster movies such as the Creature from the Black Lagoon. The shoot was amazing, because I had an amazing team - Jed Gammon, photographer, IC Beauty Hair and Makeup, and the lovely Charlotte - can you believe this is her first professional photo shoot?

La Belle - linen blend keyhole top and flannel and cotton skirt

and le Bete - printed organic t-shirt, suspenders, and flannel slacks

The other Beauty - satin v-neck top with flannel and cotton skirt.

and her beast - linen blend top with cotton trousers

This is actually a dress from the last spring/summer collection, but I wanted to get more shots of it.

All photos Copyright Jed Gammon 2011

This week and this week only!

2011-10-16T15:36:00.001-05:00

This coming Sunday, Oct 23, Belindabilly will be featured along with other designers in the Go Red Fashion Show benefiting the American Heart Association. The show is being held in conjunction with a venue tour in Wake Forest, NC (more info and tickets).

This week is also the beginning of a new promotion at Belindabilly - our Item of the Week. Every week, one item or group of items will be featured and will be 25% off for the entire week. There is a catch though; the Item of the Week will not be advertised on the website. Only the insiders on Facebook and Twitter will hear about it, so make sure you're in on the secret!

Also this week I'll be publishing photos from a recent photo shoot with Jed Gammon Photography on the blog (preview on our FB), so stay tuned!

Her Name is Yoshimi

2011-09-14T13:46:00.000-05:00

Do you ever feel like you are really busy, but when someone asks what you've been up to, you can't come up with anything, or if you do, you feel silly for saying you're so busy?

I have been working on getting ready for a photoshoot for a collection that I wanted to photograph last year. I'm glad I get to meet some other fashion-minded people in the raleigh area--I've got a great photographer and a promising makeup artist. Plus I'm trying to figure out how to use photo-emulsion screen printing without a dark room or an exposure table. I'll probably just end up using my closet as my dark room and building my own light table. That just takes a while and I feel like Veruca Salt--I want it now!

On top of that I've been sketching for my fall 2012 collection and it takes up 50% of my brain at any given moment. I am happy with it so far though, and happy to see how easy it is getting to find cool organic fabrics. Now if we can just get some eco-friendly zippers!

I'm doing all of this because I've decided to go to fashion weeks in the Southeast in March and April. Why wait and longer? I'll be putting up a Kickstarter project in October to fund the collection, and I'm applying to the Charleston Fashion Week Emerging Designer Competition (cross your fingers for me!). I'll also be heading to Charlotte, NC and Jacksonville, FL.

On another note, I saw the Flaming Lips at Raleigh's Hopscotch Festival last weekend. I think the best word to describe it is trippy--and fun! I'd like to be able to throw a party like that!

Yea, there is a person in there.

Irene Dover

2011-08-27T13:01:00.000-05:00

It's quite the rainy day so I figured it was time for another blog post! I was thinking about naming my next dress Irene (after the hurricane currently hanging over us), but she really isn't very impressive after all.

Speaking of new clothing, the next Printed collection will be debuting in only 5 days! Of course, that means the dairy cow t-shirts will only be around for 4 more days... For September's Printed Collection (which will be available through October 31), we worked with Wilmington, NC artist, Kevin Thomas Ward, whose silly yet creepy drawings bring a lot of smiles (and confused looks) to North Carolina's Cape Fear. Ward's first book about Carolina's resident specters came out this summer, and we are excited to have an exclusive collection of spooktacular drawings by Ward just for Belindabilly! Here's a little preview for you:

Don't be scared! It's not real! Just real cool!

Summer Updates!

2011-08-24T13:57:00.000-05:00

It has been quite a while since my last blog post, so we're going to try something new - short and sweet. Belindabilly has just recently moved headquarters from Wilmington, NC to Raleigh, NC and we're really loving the change of pace. Raleigh is a beautiful city and it really has a lot to offer - nightlife, culture, fashion, music, local beers! Hopefully soon, it will also offer boutique where you can buy Belindabilly.

We've got a lot of projects going on right now, and one is definitely to offer Belindabilly in stores - one in Raleigh, Durham, Wilmington, and Chicago to start. Another is the fall 2012 collection. This spring, we're going to have a few real fashion shows and we're really excited about it, but we can't say too much right now. We will leave you with some images of the beautiful eco-friendly fabrics from Herbal Fab.

Look for more from them in the spring, and more from us soon!

New Printed Organic T-shirts, Wicked Art Show, Copper Jewelry

2011-03-02T13:20:00.001-06:00

There is a lot going on at Belindabilly right now! First of all, I'm having an art show in Wilmington, NC at Wicked Gallery. If you're in the area, come out for a masquerade opening with belly dancers, music, and free food March 12 at 7pm!

Second, I just got a new book on jewelry techniques, so look for lots of new copper jewelry this summer, plus some interesting metal clothing! Speaking of new clothing, Belindabilly will soon be introducing a new Printed Collection. Every few months we will come out with a new theme of prints that will be available on organic cotton t-shirts, organic totes, organic scarves, and probably a lot of other things too! The premier collection, "Heartland", will be available this month. Here's a preview:

The t-shirts are Alternative Apparel 100% organic cotton, so they are super comfy and super good to the environment!

Belindabilly will also be going wholesale soon, so if you have a boutique, or if you would like to see Belindabilly at a boutique near you, contact us!

New Limited Editions

2011-02-18T22:44:00.000-06:00

Belindabilly is introducing new Limited Editions! It's a new division of Belindabilly, part of a redesign of our business plan that brings a little more organization to the company. The Belindabilly LE features in-house fabric designs, printed especially for the garments that they will be used in. This means that the garments are designed from start to finish as a whole concept. We're starting with the new duet dresses and each edition will be available until 10 have sold, and then the fabric will be discontinued. The best part is that they are available in organic cotton! You can view the first ones on Sense of Fashion, and they will soon be up on the Belindabilly website (with a non-organic alternative for a smaller wallet), along with another new division, the Printed Collections. I'll write more about that, though, next time.

Upcoming Rockabilly, Psychobilly, Surf, and Horrorpunk in North Carolina and Chicago

2011-01-26T19:26:00.000-06:00

It's pretty quiet in the world of billy music this time of the year, but here's what I can find:

Tonight, January 26 - Scarlett Deville and the Devillettes @ the Horseshoe in Chicago, IL @9pm (free)

January 29 - Nothing to Gain, Jayke Orvis and the Broken Band, James Hunnicut, The Ugly Reggie's Music
Joint, Chicago, IL @8pm 21+ $10

January 29 - Dexter Romweber and the New Romans, Killer Filler, Bustello @ the Pinkhook in Durham, NC

In other news, the new Duet Dress line is available at Belindabilly.com, with more one-of-a-kinds added each week!

New "Duet" for spring

2011-01-23T20:41:00.000-06:00

Just a quick couple updates...
Belindabilly.com is back online, literally. It took a few days to get switched over, but Belindabilly's website is now 100% wind powered. Oh, the freedom! It feels really great to have an oil-free cyber side, but there is still much work to be done!
New photos of the Belindabilly signature skirts are up at Sense of Fashion, and will soon be up on Belindabilly.com as well. Also coming soon for spring/summer are new "Duet" dresses. Here's a preview:

Ch-ch-changes

2011-01-16T22:09:00.000-06:00

It is 2011 and Belindabilly is beginning anew. There have been a lot of changes in my own life since the beginning of 2010 and Belindabilly has gone through a lot as well. Many projects were cancelled because of this, that and the other thing; intentions for blog posts were never realized; plans just generally fell through. But it is a new year, and though it is time for reflection, it is also time for forging ahead. I restart with new energy and enthusiasm, new ideas, and new hope (no there is no star-wars themed collection in the works) and a new computer! I hope to bring my art practice and my fashion design closer together, with more of my own fabrics in my clothing and more artful inspiration in my collections. I hope to have fashion shows paired with art openings and new stores carrying both my fashion and my art. But, I'm getting a little ahead of myself.

One of my first steps is to bring my fashion practice a little more in line with my personal values. I try to make sustainable and eco-friendly decisions in my artwork and in my everyday life, so why not in fashion too? Not that Belindabilly wasn't started with sustainability as a tenet of the company, with our organic cotton logo t-shirts from the beginning, and upcycled clothing later, but I need to take bigger steps. I need to think about the impact that every facet and every detail has on our environment. That is why I have moved my website from a decent but lackluster webhost to a small company based out of Portland Oregon called Canvas Dreams - one of the few if not the only web hosting business that actually uses 100% clean energy for their servers. I'm not talking about all the places that pull electricity from the grid and then purchase carbon offsets; that's a step in the right direction, but still part of an outdated inefficient system. The servers at Canvas Dreams, and as far as I know, probably the office, too, is powered by wind energy that comes from a wind farm near their facility. That's real innovation and not only is it a good step for the environment, but they are also showing that wind energy is both viable and efficient.

Which brings me back to Belindabilly. There are many steps I still need to take and a lot of questions that don't yet have an answer, but I want to show that fashion can be eco-friendly without having to look like it is made of potato sacks and soybeans. Not everything that is organic has to be olive drab, and I'm going to prove it.

Halloween Playlist

2010-10-29T10:13:00.000-05:00

Everyone getting excited for Halloween? I'm pretty excited. We still haven't carved our pumpkin, but I will make sure we do tonight (I'm going to make it look like The Count from sesame street, ah ah ah). Anyway, one of the most important things to have for your halloween party, besides a costume and spooky treats, is an excellently creepy playlist. I know you are quite capable of creating one yourself, but just in case, here a list to get you started. A lot of these you can find on itunes, amazon, or for free on share sites. You can also listen on tinysong.

First of all, you have to have a few dance numbers mixed in there. My favs are
"Thriller" by Michael Jackson
"Monster Mash" by Bobby "Boris" Pickett and the Crypt-Kickers (The Misfits also did a version) and
"Time Warp" from the Rocky Horror Picture Show soundtrack

Pretty much any Nekromantix song works well for Halloween, but the best ones include
"Trick or Treat"
"Dead Moonwalkin'" (also good for getting people to dance) and
"Where Do Monsters Go?"

There has to be some Danzig, so try
"Killer Wolf" or
"Not of This World"

Danzig also sung on AFI's cover of the Misfits' "Halloween" that was pretty good. I don't usually recommend any AFI but they did an "All Hallows EP" that I like for Halloween that includes
"Halloween" and
"Fall Children"

And here is a list of the rest:
"Ecto-1" by Lilitu
"As You Die" by the Mutilators
"Never Die" by Tiger Army
"Walking Dead" by the Independents
"Beheaded" by the Offspring
"Walk Like a Zombie" by the Horrorpops
"Last of the Human Beings" by the Quakes
"Hotrod Vampires" by Demented Are Go
"Night of the Living Dead" by Left For Dead
"Graveyard Beyond the Woods" by Horror of 59
"Graveyard Tree III" by Koffin Kats
"Midnight Spookshow" by Calabrese

Plus any of the songs from the Rocky Horror Punk Rock Show album are a lot of fun.

And here are some cookies for you.

<3 Belinda

The Long Awaited Rockabilly and Psychobilly Music Calendar

2010-10-27T22:47:00.000-05:00

Here it is - the new Calendar! Upcoming Rockabilly, Psychobilly, Horrorpunk, Folkpunk and related shows in NC, MA, and Chicago. As always, if you want me to cover your area, send me a quick email, and if we missed a show leave a comment so no one else will miss it!

October 28, 2010
Dexter Romweber at Sadlacks Heroes in Raleigh, NC @9pm

October 29, 2010
Scarlett Deville and the Devilettes, Coffin Banger at Horseshoe in Chicago, IL @8pm
The Villians at Divebar in Raleigh, NC @9pm
Transylvania Transport Co, Go Devils, Joe Buck Yourself, and others at Stella Blue in Asheville, NC @9pm

October 30, 2010
Kelley and the Cowboys at Cane Creek Campground in Snow Camp, NC @7pm
Ormon Grimsby's House of Halloween Hullabaloo presents The Tremors, Straight 8s at Kings in Raleigh, NC @8pm
Frankensexxy, the Gravetones, Old Scars at Horseshoe in Chicago, IL @8pm
Zombiefest - Dex Romweber Duo and others at Space 13 in Wilmington, NC @9pm
Devil's Ball Kostume Cruise In by Road Devils CC presents Flat Tires, Dielectrics, Speed Kings at 16 Taps in Wilmington, NC @9pm *note: costume contest with prizes, also filming video for Flat Tires
The Bo-Stevens at the Garage in Winston Salem, NC @9:30pm

October 31, 2010
7th Annual Spooktacular presents Sasquatch and the Sick-a-billys, Labretta Suede and the Motel 6, The Othermen, Cactus at the Lucky Dog Music Hall in Worcester, MA @8pm *note: half price cover if you wear a Halloween costume
The Tremors at Arizona Pete's in Greensboro, NC @7:30pm
Blood Red River at Dain's Place in Durham, NC @10pm

November 3, 2010
Mad Sin, Dreadnoughts, Curtains!, Nothing to Gain at Reggie's Rock Club in Chicago, IL @7pm

November 5, 2010
The Tremors at the Cave in Chapel Hill, NC @ 10pm

November 7, 2010
Reverend Horton Heat at the Metro in Chicago, IL @7pm
Mad Sin, Dreadnoughts, the Arkhams, Wicked Whiskey, Creepin Cadavers at the Studio at Webster Hall in NYC @9pm *note: this is the only East Coast Show that Mad Sin will be doing, so hall it up to NYC if your in the Northeast! Also, there will be a flea market, craft fair, fashion show, go-go and other fine entertainment.
The Tremors, Straight 8s at Puckett's Farm Equipment in Charlotte, NC @10pm

November 13, 2010
Wicked Whiskey, Lenny Lashley at McGreevy's in Boston, MA @8pm

November 14, 2010
Dex Romweber Duo at the Middle East in Cambridge, MA @9pm

November 18, 2010
Koffin Kats, Johnny Murder and the 25 to Life, The Ugly, The Van Buren Boys at Reggie's Rock Club in Chicago, IL @7pm
The Bo-Stevens at the Millenium Center in Winston Salem, NC @8pm

November 19, 2010
David Allen Coe, Appalucia at Tremont Music Hall in Charlotte, NC @8:30pm

November 20, 2010
Pearls Mahone and the One-eyed Jacks at Horseshoe in Chicago, IL @9pm
The Belmont Playboys at Tremont Music Hall in Charlotte, NC @9pm

November 24, 2010
.357 String Band, The Gravetones, Stang Stomper at Reggies Music Joint in Chicago, IL @7pm

November 26, 2010
Rumble House Rockabilly at Great Chow in Abington, MA @8:30pm

November 29, 2010
Tex Railer's Doomtown at Charlie's Kitchen in Boston, MA @7pm

New and Improved!

2010-10-26T10:48:00.004-05:00

Obviously, the Belindabilly blog has been on a bit of a hiatus. I've been re-thinking the format and trying to figure out what is really important about it - what I'm trying to accomplish. I've decided that the music updates are still very important, but I'm changing it to a month long calendar with updates on changes when needed. I will just edit the original post and tweet about the change (follow @belindapaige), as well as give notice on the day of big shows. I will also be getting rid of the "Fashion Friday" posts. Instead, I will be posting whenever I have new clothing or accessories to show, or other fashion related items. I'll also be using the blog to keep track of my own favorite designers, bands, new textiles, fiber artists, and wedding-related things. Don't worry, it won't get too girly, but I have to make it interesting to me in order to make it interesting to you.

In that spirit, here's something awesome!

My fiance's mom made these cute Halloween pillowcases for us. I adore the fabric! I would love a dress or a jumper out of it, wouldn't you? I might see if she can get me more of the fabric so I can do a one-of-a-kind - who wants it?

I also have the beginnings of the new Belindabilly Knit Collection. It won't be ready to go until January probably, but here are some scarves I've been working on.

I plan to have some little sweaters and cardigans along with stockings and maybe even stocking caps for guys.

That's all for now. By tomorrow I should have the music calendar up through the end of November. This weekend will be busy with Halloween shows; check back here so you don't miss any! Follow me on Twitter or become a fan on Facebook for updates.

<3 Belinda

Music Monday

2010-10-11T15:04:00.000-05:00

Septemeber 11

Hello my dear readers,

This weekend was the 2011 Port City Rumble at 16 Taps in Wilmington, NC. There was quite a turn out and a helluva party. I didn't get to see all of the bands, but I saw enough to say this:
Dear Sound Guy at 16 Taps, I respect you and your position, and I'm sure you pretty much know what you are doing. However, I do have one note for you. In most cases, the drums will be the loudest instrument out of a group, so loud in fact, that they barely need to be mic'ed, especially in a small venue. In psychobilly and rockabilly bands, the drums should also be the least noticeable. The emphasis here is on vocals, and guitar, but also much attention should be given to the bass. The bass is what makes these bands special, and though it mostly acts as rhythm, it adds a lot to the melody. So what is my point, you ask? Well, I hate to complain, but nthe drums were so over mic'ed, especially during the Koffin Kats' set, that the bass was totally drowned out unless it was the only instrument being played. For the first few songs, we couldn't hear the guitar either. But, the Koffin Kats rocked out anyway and I'm sure pretty much everyone was too drunk to notice. Maybe you were drunk too, so I'll give you credit for doing your job at all, but next time, let's just take it down a notch.
Thanks
Belinda

And now for the week in Rockabilly, Pychobilly and everything similar*:

Nothing tonight, Tuesday or Wednesday...

Thursday, October 14, 2010
JJ and the Retrobillys (rockabilly) play at the Horseshoe in Chicago @9pm.

Friday, October 15, 2010
The Great Chow, a Chinese restaurant I think, in Abington, MA hosts Rumble house Rockabilly @8:30pm.

Saturday, October 16, 2010
Rumble House Rockabilly, Wicked Whiskey (pyschobilly), and The Knuckledusters (rockabilly) play at Sally O'Brien's in Somerville, MA @8pm.
In Pittsboro at The General Store Cafe, The String Machine (rockin' bluegrass) plays @8pm.
Motorbilly (psychobilly) and Cutthroat Shamrock (punkgrass) play at Divebar Raleigh (NC) @10pm.

Sunday, October 17, 2010
Tex Railer's Doomtown (psychobilly) plays Central Mass Roller Derby in Lancaster MA @6pm.

*Right now, I only cover North Carolina, Chicago, and Massachusetts, but will add more places if I get requests. So, if you live somewhere else and want to know what's going on in your neck of the woods, give me a holler and I'll add your city or state to my list. Also, if your band or venue isn't listed and it should be, make sure to add it in the comments so everyone knows!

Music Calendar

2010-10-06T21:18:00.001-05:00

Hi Gang,

I was out of town and missed my Monday post, but I didn't want you to miss any shows if I could help it. So, here is what's left of the week in rockabilly, psychobilly etc.

Wednesday October 6, 2010
Koffin Kats (psychobilly) and Go Devils (psychobilly) play the Milestone in Charlotte, NC @8pm.

Friday October 8, 2010
At the Rockshop in Fayetville, NC, the Koffin Kats (psychobilly) and Motorbilly (hard rockabilly) @7:30pm
In Chicago at the Horseshoe, 13 Angels play with Tracer Bullet (rockabilly) and Johnny Murder and the 25 to Life (psychobilly) @9pm.
The Cave in Chapel Hill, NC hosts Killer Filler (surf) @11pm.

Saturday October 9, 2010
The 4th Annual Port City Rumble takes place at 16 taps in Wilmington, NC starting at 12pm, bands @6pm. Bands include Blood Red River (psychobilly), Transylvania Transport Co (psychobilly), Koffin Kats (psychobilly), the Dielectrics (punk), American Speedway (rock'n'roll), and JT and the Dragpipes (rockabilly), who I think actually play earlier in the day. The rumble will show Pre '67 Rods, Kustom Bicycles and the "Legendary Death Defying Creeper Race". Belindabilly will also be making an appearance along with other vendors.
In Winston-Salem, NC, the Bo-Stevens (rockabilly) go on @7:30pm at the Dixie Classic Fairgrounds.
Creepin' Cadavers (psychobilly) play in Southwick, MA at the Southwick Inn @9:30pm.

There wasn't anything on Thursday or Saturday that I found; a lot of bands are probably getting their rest before the Halloween hoopla (for which I am very excited!). As always, if I missed anything please leave a comment and if you want me to report on your city or state please send a message!

Fashion Friday

2010-10-03T20:46:00.001-05:00

Dear Reader,

Well once again, it's not Friday. This post is coming to you from San Francisco, California, where I haven't been able to get an internet connection until today. But enough excuses! There is fashion to be written about. Of course, the most exciting thing to report is that the Belindabilly fall collection is now available. Unfortunately, I don't have photos yet! The fashion shoot fell through last week as I found out how hard it is to find a photographer in Wilmington NC. I promise there will be photos soon, though!

In other news, Haight and Ashbury in San Francisco is definitely not the same hippy stuff it was in the 70's, but it is a great place for fashion and music. Yesterday, we stopped in Skunk Funk at 1475 Haight St. The fashion was original if slightly plain, but there was a mix of interesting construction details on solid colors and simple but clever screen prints. We also stopped in a Bettie Page Clothing store, which is even more fun in person than shopping the website. But the greatest fashion gem was a store called Decades Of Fashion‎ at 1740 Haight Street. It is a wonderful vintage boutique that has clothing and accessories from the 1980's back to the 1880's. In my opinion, their best treasures were a collection of beautifully beaded flapper dresses, real 1950s housewife pumps, and a variety of men's suits from Victorian tails to 1950s tuxedos. They also had an incredible collection of costume jewelry, inexpensive when it was made, but now prized for it's excellent (and now rare) craftsmanship, even though the gems are glass.

Don't forget, Belindabilly is giving away a t-shirt to one lucky winner! All you have to do is answer a few quick questions and enter your email address. See you back next week for How-2 2nd Friday and pics of fall fashions!

<3 Belinda

Music Monday

2010-09-27T18:07:00.000-05:00

Septemeber 27

Hello my dear readers,

I hope no one missed a show due to the absence of updates last week, but there really wasn't much going on. I also hope that my readers in North Cackalacka made it to the Carrboro Music Festival, an annual event put on by the city of Carrboro, NC with 25 stages and over 100 acts. Unfortunately, because of rain, a lot of outdoor stages were closed and great bands like the Straight 8s didn't get to play. One such canceled band, Rough Cut, decided to take a chance and ask some neighbors if they could set up on their porch. The neighbors were happy to host and as soon as the band started to play, a crowd started to form. An americana bluegrass band, Rough Cut's harmonies are as sweet as their picking. Since they don't play very often, you should really see them whenever you get a chance. This band has serious talent. Another great band I discovered at the music festival is the String Machine. This bluegrass quintet has a bluesy, rockin' edge that appeals to a wider crowd than the regular bluegrass listeners. String machine is made up of talented vocalists and amazing musicians, plus there is eye candy for most types, so they're easy on the eyes and the ears. They cover well-known songs, like Bob Seger's "Turn the Page" (Metallica also had a turn at it) and put a lively bluegrass spin into it, but they also have some good original songs, each taking their turn to write and sing. I was impressed and would recommend them to anyone who enjoys outlaw country, rockabilly, bluegrass, roots or folk.

And now for the week in Rockabilly, Pychobilly and everything similar*:

Tonight, Monday, September 27, 2010
Public Assembly in NYC hosts the Memphis Morticians (psychobillY), Tracer Bullet (soulful rockabilly), and the Brains (psychobilly) at 9pm.

Tuesday, September 28, 2010
The legendary Koffin Kats (psychobilly) play with Tex Railer's Doomtown (psychobilly) @9pm at the Midway Cafe in Boston, MA.

Wednesday, September 29, 2010
Blood Red River (rockabilly) play at the Pinhook in Durham, NC @10:30pm.

Thursday, September 30, 2010
Nothing really going on Thursday, but if you are in the Wilmington, NC area and you are interested in modeling, or if you are an actor needing photos, Belindabilly is looking for models for a photo shoot September 30 or October 6.

Friday, October 1, 2010
Carrboro, NC's Artscenter hosts Killer Filler (surf) at 8pm.
At 9pm James Hunnicut and the Revolvers (rockabilly) play in Charlotte, NC at the Milestone.
Also in Charlotte, at Puckett's Farm Equipment the Straight 8s (rockabilly) and the Tremors (rockabilly) play at 10pm.
In Durham, NC, Near Blind James and Harmonica Bob (ragtime/blues) play at the Broad Street Cafe @8pm.

Saturday, October 2, 2010
Mad tea party ("uke-abilly") and the Straight 8s (rockabilly) play at the Pour House in Raleigh @9pm.
Johnny Carlevale and His Band of All-stars (rockabilly) play at Boston's Midway Cafe @9:30pm.
Then back in Charlotte, NC, The Tremors (rockabilly) and the Transylvania Transport Co. (psychobilly) play Puckett's Farm Equipment @11pm.

Sunday, October 3, 2010
Kelley & the Cowboys (rockabilly) play an outdoor show as part of Durham, NC's Warehouse Blues Series in Durham's Central Park @5pm.

*Right now, I only cover North Carolina, Chicago, and Massachusetts, but will add more places if I get requests. So, if you live somewhere else and want to know what's going on in your neck of the woods, give me a holler and I'll add your city or state to my list. Also, if your band or venue isn't listed and it should be, make sure to add it in the comments so everyone knows!

Lastly, Belindabilly is giving away a free t-shirt to one lucky contest winner. To enter fill out this quick survey now! The winner will be notified October 10th by email. See you on Friday!

Fashion Friday

2010-09-24T19:47:00.000-05:00

Dear Reader,

You may have noticed that the Belindabilly blog has not been updated as frequently as it should have lately. I apologize especially to those of you who missed having the Music Monday post this week; luckily it was a quiet week in the world of rockabilly and psychobilly. However, there was some hoopla lately in the world of fashion...by the name of New York Fashion week.

Were you as excited as I that the runway was finally broadcast for the whole interweb to see? The fashion industry is finally realizing that elitism isn't a good look for anyone. My favorites were Carlos Miele, Nanette Lepore, and of course Betsey Johnson always puts on a good show. Now you don't have to buy a magazine to find out what's in for the spring. In case you didn't get to see, I'll tell you right here and right now, that sparkles are hot now, and in 2011. Sequins, costume jewelry, shimmering fabrics, glitter, studs - it's all in (but hopefully not all on the same garment). If your wardrobe looks to drab to you, just buy a few sparkly accessories - maybe a studded belt and a glittering necklace - to add into each outfit and, voila, you're back in the game. I'll also tell you another secret: purple is always in. Always. It's the exact shade of purple that you have to get right. Last year it was eggplant (which I still love), but this year it seems to be wavering between an amethyst and a lilac. I never condone lilac (the color, I mean - the flower is wonderful), but if you do like it, you can get away with it this spring. Fall purples are always dark or jewel tones, so stick with amethyst until the end of 2010. Plaid is also very hip this season, which brings me to my next point: the Belindabilly fall collection, "Beauty and the Beast" will be available next Fashion Friday, October 1.

I can't show you anything yet, but I can tell you there is a lot of plaid and some toile, and the women's outfits are very curvy and the men's very square (but certainly not plain!). I also guarantee that even those of you in Chicago will stay warm with these beauties (and beasts), so check back next week for the exciting unveiling!

Lastly, who doesn't like a free t-shirt? Belindabilly will give away a t-shirt to one lucky winner (choice between our two signature tee designs or a one-of a kind)! To enter, fill out 8 quick survey questions here and enter your email address. The survey ends October 7 at 11:45pm and the winner will be notified by October 9.

Come back on Monday for Music Monday's calendar of rockabilly, psychobilly and everything similar for next week.

Thanks for visiting!
<3 BelindaP.S. You can still view a lot of the runway shows at Lincoln Center's website.

Music Monday

2010-09-13T06:00:00.003-05:00

Septemeber 13

This week is pretty slim pickins for psychobilly and rockabilly music. That is, unless you live in Bristol Tennessee/Virginia, where the 2010 Bristol Rhythm and Roots Reunion festival takes place this Friday through Sunday. The festival showcases bluegrass, folk, country, rockabilly, and everything in between with 4 outdoor stages, a dance tent, and indoor venues with vendors, food and such. Check out their website for more information, including the full line-up.

Tuesday September 14, 2010
Pearls Mahone and the One-eyed Jacks (rockabilly) play at the Horseshoe in Chicago with Jason and the Punknecks (outlaw country) @9pm.

Wednesday September 15, 2010
Not a band, but the Horseshoe in Chicago hosts subculture Karaoke; have a few drinks and belt out some Nekromantix...

Thursday September 16, 2010
In Chicago, Reggie's Music Joint hosts Happy Talk Band, The Numbers, and J.B Ritchie @10pm. They aren't rockabilly, more of a bluesy rock'n'roll, but I would recommend it if you're around.

Friday September 17, 2010
In Bridgeport, CT, Amy Rose and Her Troublemakers (rockabilly), along with Soul Reapin' 3 (psychobilly), and The Long Goodbyes (rockabilly) at Two Boots @8:30pm.

The Go Devils (psychobilly) play at Stella Blue in Asheville, NC @9pm.

The wonderful, legendary Marti Brom plays at Public Assembly in NYC with Teri Joyce & the Tagalongs, and Li'l Mo & the Monicats @9pm.

Saturday September 18, 2010
The Go Devils (psychobilly) play again in Oakley, NC at the Fairview Tavern @4pm.

The Cave in Chapel Hill, NC hosts Blood Red River (surf/rockabilly) @10pm.

And thats about it. See you on Friday for a special fashion surprise!

Fashion Friday

2010-09-11T15:43:00.000-05:00

Ok, so it's actually Saturday, but it's still the Second Saturday, which means it's time for

How To...

I have two how-tos for you today to make up for it.

First, How To watch Fashion Week without a ticket. This one is easy. The Lincoln Center, the venue for NYFW has a live web cast of almost the whole thing. You can also go to NY Mag's article that lists all of the shows that will be streaming online and when with links. You can still catch Alexander Wang and Altuzzara today, but in case you missed your favorite, the NYFW website has photos and videos from the runway.

My second how-to is How To Get Rid of Stains (the old fashioned way). This isn't a complete list, just some of the things you wouldn't guess; if you have a stain that I don't mention here that you want to know how to remove, leave a comment for me or send me an email.

For grass: soak for 30 minutes in a solution of one gallon water and two tablespoons of vinegar. Rub gently and rinse.

Mildew: For washables, add a few drops of household ammonia. Otherwise, dry clean.

Chewing gum: rub with an ice cube, then scrape with a butter knife.

Some other warnings about stains you may not know -

Some stains like alcoholic beverages and citrus may dry invisible but yellow with age; sponge with bleach to remove.
Don't add water to grease stains - this will make it harder to remove. Instead use a combination of dry cleaning solvent, detergent and bleach (one at a time).
Don't melt candle or crayon wax to try and get it out, but scrape it away like for chewing gum. Heating it may cause the color to set in the fabric.

Happy Fashion Week!

Music Monday

2010-09-06T11:04:00.001-05:00

Septemeber 6

Happy Monday, everyone! Today I wanted to list some rockabilly/psychobilly radio stations for you to listen to online; please add to the list in the comments section if you know of any more. But first, did anyone go to the Psychobilly Sideshow in Fayetville last week? I was tricked into staying home by Earl the Hurricane, who then stood us all up. By the way, how about that for a band name - Earl and the Hurricanes? Anyway, today I've been listening to Garage 71 Radio, which has a psychobilly show every Monday night 8-10pm, as well as great rockabilly, psychobilly and other rock n roll music all day every day. This Retro Radio Locator from Atomic Magazine is a pretty cool tool to help you find out if there is a station near you that plays rockabilly and the like. Some others include Rock-it Radio, which is cool if you can get it to work, Rockabilly Radio, and Wreckhouse Radio. The last one is podcasts only, but they play some pretty good music when they're not talking.

And now for the week in Rockabilly, Psychobilly, and the like:

Today, Monday September 6, 2010
It's the last day of the Coney Island Rockabilly Festival, with bands all day at Cha Cha's on the boardwalk, Coney Island, NYC.

Tonight PA's Lounge in Somerville, MA hosts the Mission Creeps at 9:30

Tomorrow, Tuesday September 7, 2010
The Chop Tops, Tex Railer's Doom Town, and Viva Le Vox play at 8pm at Public Assembly in Brooklyn, NY. There will also be vendors, DJs and "go-go".

Wednesday September 8, 2010
Reggies Rock Club/Music Joint in Chicago hosts is 3 Year Anniversary Party @ 6pm. I would go to the Music Joint part to see Divebar, a Chicago alt-country band, and Kent Rose and the Remedies, a kind of Hank Williams brand of Rockabilly.

In Charlotte, NC, Hellbound Glory is playing first at the Evening Muse at 8, then later at 10:30 at Thirsty Beaver.

The Cave in Chapel Hill, NC hosts the Mission Creeps and Killer Filler @ 10pm/

Thursday September 9, 2010
Lincoln Theater in Raleigh, NC will have the alt-country/rockabilly bands Lucero, American Aquarium, Max Indian, and John Howie & The Rosewood Bluff.

Hellbound Glory, Flat Tires, and Crank County Daredevils play @9pm at Stella Blue in Asheville, NC.

At 10pm, the Whiskey Daredevils play Quenchers in Chicago.

Friday September 10, 2010
The 16th Annual NC Tattoo Convention, hosted by Little John's Tattoo starts at the Marriot in Greensboro. I'm not sure what time the Tremors go on, but it's an all day all weekend thing and they promise live music. Find more info here.

The Independents play @9pm at Reggie's 42nd Street Tavern in Wilmington, NC.

Saturday September 11, 2010
Raleigh, NC is very busy with Live at the Dive (The Divebar), hosting Crank County Daredevils, Beitthemeans (southern rock), Hellbound Glory, She Rides (Horrorpunk), Jay Berndt (classic Country), and Flat Tires. Then over at Volume 11 Tavern, they're having a parking lot show starting @1pm, with a free BBQ @6pm, and Motorbilly goes on inside @9pm. Last but not least the Dex Romweber Duo plays at Slim's @11pm.

Sunday September 12, 2010
Frankensexxy, The Heavies, The Gravetones, Johnny Murder and the 25 to Life, and the Chop Tops play at Reggies Rock Club in Chicago @7pm.

The Dex Romweber Duo play in Charlotte at Snug Harbor @10pm.

Please, drop me a line if you want me to add your city or state, and make sure to leave a comment if I forgot something!

Music Monday

2010-08-30T13:15:00.018-05:00

August 30

On Wednesday I went to the Horseshoe in Chicago, my favorite bar, and saw Huntinanny. They were an interesting act with a mix of old school rock n roll, surf, rockabilly, and country-western, with the look of a jam band. I enjoyed the variety in their set that drifted between the genres yet was held together with a steady rockabilly rhythm, and a theme of cars, the beach, and women. I was also charmed by the slight drawl of the lead singer and his black and white argyle guitar. They a are a young band finishing a US tour and playing their way back home, yet they're total professionals and didn't skip out early even though it was a quiet night. If they stop in your town, why not let them entertain you.

And now for the week in Rockabilly, Psychobilly, et al:

New this week: Massachusetts!

Tomorrow, Tuesday August 31, 2010:
At the Horseshoe in Chicago, Nick Curran & The Lowlifes, Tracer Bullet, and The Dyes play at 8pm. Get the $2 Steak Tacos.

Wednesday September 1, 2010:
The Cockabilly Roadshow comes to Boston, Massachusetts. Catch Viva Le Vox, Jason and the Punknecks, Guitar Bomb, The Holy Roller Sideshow, Hickry Hawkins, along with the Squidling Bros Circus and a Burlesque Show at the Middle East, upstairs, at 8pm.

Thursday September 2, 2010:
Reggie's Music Joint in Chicago features Jimbo Delta in an after work show at 5:30pm.

The Rockshop in Fayetville, NC hosts the Psychobilly Sideshow at 8pm. See the Chop Tops, Hollowbody Hellraisers, Playing with Guns, The Several Devils Band, and Honky Tonk Hustlas for only $10! Plus, you might find some exclusive coupons for Belindabilly while you're there.

Friday September 3, 2010:
Wow, busy day -
In Chicago at Reggie's Music Joint, Johnny Murder and the 25 to life play with the Brains, The Dyes, and The Ugly at 8pm. Next door at the Rock Club at the same time are Outburst on the 66, Mission Creeps, and the Rosedales.

In Pittsboro, NC, The City Tap hosts the Straight 8s and a hotrod/kustom/classic cruise. Starts at 6:30pm, the band goes on at 8.

At 9pm at Raleigh's Dive Bar, the Villians play a free show.

Then at 10pm in Durham at the Pinhook, Dexter Romweber and the New Romans are playing. They may not be rockabilly, but Dex sure has a lot of rockabilly street cred and this is a really awesome band (and one of my favorites).

Lastly, the 2010 Coney Island Rockabilly Festival Starts at Cha Cha's on the Boardwalk in NYC. This night is all of the bands from the Cockabilly Roadshow plus King Sickabilly.

Saturday September 4, 2010:
The Coney Island Rockabilly Festival Continues with Hickry Hawkins, Sean Kershaw and the New Jack Ramblers, Elsa Cross, and Susquehanna Industrial Tool & Die Co. during the day on the outdoor stage. At night in Cha Cha's, see Tombstone Brawlers, Jason James and the Bay State House Rockers, Mean Mean Man and the Brass Knuckles, and The Hollowbody Hellraisers.

In Durham, NC, check out the Bull City Rumble at the Tavern in Durham. Along with cool cars, see the Belmont Playboys, the Tremors, Transylvania Transport Co, Hearts and Daggers, and Blood Red River.

Finally, in Chicago at Ronny's, Tracer Bullet is playing with two punk bands, On the Attack and Bass Line Bums at 8pm.

Sunday September 5, 2010
The third day of the Coney Island Rockabilly Festival features Nick Williams and The Anteaters, The Mallard Drakes, The Krank Daddies, and Tex Railer’s Doomtown on the outdoor stage during the day and Sasquatch, and the Sickabillys, The Memphis Morticians, Soul Reapin' 3, and Creepin’ Cadavers in Cha Cha's at night.

In Carrboro, NC, the Station hosts the 3rd Annual Jaws Fest at 2pm. I assume it is shark themed, but Killer Filler (a surf band), The Aqualads, and Blood Red River play. There will also be food and drink specials.

I can't see every show that comes around, so if you see one of these bands, email me at blog@belindabilly.com and let me know how they were. Or, if I forget to add a show to the weekly calendar, please leave a comment about it so no one misses out. And as always, if you want me to write about your city or state, just drop a line!

Fashion Friday

2010-08-27T00:00:00.002-05:00

Today's fashion friday is...

A Surprise Sale!

Today only, get 20% off your total purchase (before shipping) at Belindabilly.com. This includes all jewelry that is already 20% off, and you get free shipping on any order over $100. Plus, our jewelry sale has been extended through the weekend, but get your favorites now before their gone!

Use coupon code 8BLOG10

Music Monday

2010-08-22T09:35:00.015-05:00

August 23

This will be a short update, because I didn't get to see any shows last week, but there are plenty to see this week! My only note today is that I love how you can usually guess the genre of a band just from the title. Of course it's not always true, but if a band is named Somebody and the Somethings it is probably rockabilly or psychobilly, and you can tell by the somethings which one it is. Like if it was Old Joe and the Snake Eyes, I'd guess Rockabilly, but Old Joe and the Zombies (or Dead Joe and the Zombies) would be psychobilly. Or, if a band is one or two words that create some sense of foreboding like Black Clouds or Bloodthirst (look how quickly I can come up with these) then it's metal. Just saying.

Ok, now for the week in Rockabilly, Psychobilly, et al:

Tomorrow, Tuesday Aug. 24
Husky Burnette, kind of on the blues side of rockabilly, is playing with Pearls Mahone and the One-eyed Jacks (see what I'm saying) at The Horseshoe in Chicago at 9pm. GO SEE THEM! The horseshoe is not only a great place to see music but a great bar with a kitchen, nice bartenders, and usually no cover.

Wednesday Aug. 25
Huntinanny (guitar heavy rockabilly) is also playing at the Horseshoe at 9pm in Chicago with Summer Slide. Also at nine, DJ Machetti will be spinning psychobilly tracks at Delilah's til 2am.

Thursday Aug. 26
The Horseshoe is having a good week - Delilah DeWilde and the Lost Boys play there at 9pm. Plus, same as every Thursday, DJ Mickey Massacre is at Exit Chicago at 9pm.

Friday Aug. 27
Possum Jenkins, a pretty classic Appalachian country band, is playing at Sadlack's Heroes in Raleigh at 7pm. In Chicago at the California Clipper (try the Purple Martin), see some "working-man's classic country" with Cropduster at 10pm

Saturday Aug. 28
If you can wake up early enough, listen to wknc.org or 88.1 in Raleigh from 10am to Noon EST for Americana Blues & Co., one of my favorite radio shows on every Saturday. Later at 2pm, The Straight 8s are playing Cary, NC's Lazy Daze festival; go on, it'll be fun! Back in Chicago at the California Clipper, Josh Kalmus (on the bluesy side) plays at 6pm. Finally at 8pm at the Tremont Music Hall in Charlotte, NC, the Flat Tires are playing; I suggest going late because the first band is kind of stoner metal and the second is punk (which could be good or bad).

Sunday Aug 29
Al & The Black Cats (this one tripped me up, I expected psychobilly but they're really punkabilly) are playing at 8pm at the Rockshop in Fayetteville.

The Independents are on tour! They'll be playing in NC next week and in Chicago late September.

That does it for this week - if you don't see your band listed and think it should be, or if you want me to cover your state or city, just leave me a comment. See you on Friday or at a show!

<3 Belinda of Belindabilly

Follow my blog with bloglovin

Fashion Friday

2010-08-19T22:24:00.019-05:00

Accessories!

What’s the best way to make an outfit unique? Accessories - which is the topic of today's Fashion Friday. Let’s start at the top with hats!

Sarah Azzouzi, the proprietor behind Zzouzi Hats has been concocting creative headwear since she started studying in the fashion department at the School of the Art Institute of Chicago. She focuses her energy on high end hat-making, but also creates dozens of dazzling hair clips, headbands, and fascinators for the more faint at heart. I sat down with the milliner on Thursday to learn more about her business and her designs. Here are some highlights from our conversation:

BPC: So, what made you first decide to get into headwear?
SA: While attending The School of the Art Institute of Chicago I took a variety of different Fashion classes, and I realized I liked sculptural hands on fashion, so it was suggested to me that I try a Millinery course. When I first took it, I was a bit unsure, but I fell in love with the process, and I've been doing it ever since. When I told my mom what I wanted to focus on a while later, she laughed because she always used to put me in hats and I hated them; I guess that's just irony for you.

BPC: Tell me about your favorite piece that you’ve made.
SA: My favorites have got to be the ones I go crazy making. It seems the more the hat drives me crazy, the more I end up liking the hat. A few of my favorites are the ones that include the screen printing process, and the hats that use an alternative process to create them.

BPC: Who is your favorite fashion designer, hat or otherwise?
SA: When thinking about fashion designers, I do not have a favorite. I find it too difficult to pick one. I really enjoy the obscure hat designs of Philip Treacy and Stephen Jones. I also like the collaborative designs of Elsa Schiaparelli and surrealist artists.

BPC: Other than hats, what do you think is the most important accessory?
SA: I have a personal attachment to scarves and earrings, but it really depends on the season and outfit. Importance is determined by what outfit you're wearing that day.

BPC: What advice can you give for someone who would like to add millinery to their wardrobe?
SA: Keep it simple if you do. If the hat is a loud piece then like with any other [loud] accessory your outfit should be neutral. If you want to glam up an outfit, a hat is definitely the way to go! Straw hats are a great casual look for the summer, while felt hats in different shapes will look fabulous with a classy winter coat!

Zzouzi hats are available at Local Lookbook in Chicago, plus you can follow Sarah’s blog or become a fan on facebook, plus she has a new website coming soon.

For the casual belt shopper looking for something fashionable and functional, I would recommend Hollywood Mirror in Chicago, where one can find a matching belt, necktie, earrings and doormat (no joke). However, for something really unique, check out these fused glass belt buckles by artist Laurie Freivogel. Taking inspiration from pop culture, nature, and patterns, and utilizing her love of drawing and screen printing, she creates simple, elegant, and stylish glass pieces that work well to accent any outfit or dress. These are some of my favorites:

Plus she does custom messages on this adorable tattoo heart design!

Find her belt buckles and other glass art at her website or become a fan on her facebook

Let's not forget about shoes – the most important part! I just got my pair of Zombie Stompers from Iron Fist which I am so excited about, but for a noteworthy handmade shoe, check out the cute “infinite sandal” by Mohop in Chicago. Annie Mohaupt, the designer behind Mohop, designs and creates wooden soles and separate ribbons that can be changed out depending on your mood, outfit, or occasion. See her limited editions on etsy or see all of your options on her website.

Last but not at all least is jewelry; spice up any outfit and make a statement with bold pieces that show off your personality like these from Belindabilly:

Plus, this week only, all jewelry on Belindabilly.com is 20% off!

Music Monday

2010-08-16T00:05:00.004-05:00

August 16, 2010

Hello and welcome to Belindabilly’s new Music Mondays blog. Every Monday I will update on upcoming shows and tours for the, post reviews of shows from last week, and pretty much anything else that catches my fancy. Currently I am tracking US tours and focusing on my home base of Chicago, IL and my on again off again residence of North Carolina, but if you want me to add your city or state, just let me know in a comment! And now for the good stuff…

First thing's first – in case you haven’t heard, the Nekromantix are on tour in the U.S.! If seeing the famous coffin bass isn’t exciting enough for you, how about seeing Miss World Fastest Drummer 2007, Lux Drummerette who plays a double bass pedal in stilettos. Touring with the Nekromantix is the Mutilators, who have to be the world’s most entertaining psychobilly band. The Mutilators, first and foremost, are talented, hard-working, and hard-playing, but they also have a great sense of humor (about themselves). If you love serious bands that play their set as if you were listening to their album, without more than a few words between songs, this is not the band for you. However, if you are not an uptight wiener, this band will rock your socks off. I saw them at Reggie’s Rock Club in Chicago last weekend. As the music started, the lead singer Johnny Anal came on stage, guitar in hand and wig on head, in drag as a naughty nurse! He talked in falsetto, but sang in a wonderfully deep and steady voice. Other highlights included his red thong, a cover of the “Peanut Butter Jelly Song” during which a man in a banana suit jumped off stage into the wrecking pit, an awesome cover of “Thriller”, and a catchy little ditty about Hannah Montana (and a pink banana). So, to summarize, you’ll laugh, you’ll cry, you’ll feel a little dirty, and if there is only one psychobilly show you see this year, make it the Nekromantix and the Mutilators!

Upcoming shows and things this week:
In Chicago – Every Thursday at Exit is DJ Mickey Massacre playing psychobilly and rockabilly, plus upstairs is Bondage a go-go, a burlesque show.
Also playing in Chicago at Reggie’s Rock Club on Sunday are the Krank Daddies and a few other rockabilly/surf/punkabilly bands. Doors open at 7 and it’s only $10!
Exciting news for NC – it’s the 2010 Cockabilly Roadshow at the Soapbox in Wilmington on Wednesday, the Pour House in Raleigh on Thursday, and the Milestone in Charlotte on Friday. Catch a sideshow, a burlesque show and a rock show all in one! (Sorry Chicago, they’re just going up and down the east coast)

If there’s anything I missed, please leave a comment – no one wants to miss a show!

How2 Second Friday

2010-08-13T01:10:00.002-05:00

How to Make a Corset from a Band Tee
In Ten Easy Steps!

What you will need:
• A band t-shirt that fits well or is slightly too big
• Needle or sewing machine
• Thread that matches your t-shirt
• Scissors
• Pins
• A ruler
• An iron
• Chalk
• ¼” wide Boning (about 3 ft)
• A length of hook and eye tape*

*instead of hook and eye tape, you can use a zipper or eyelets and ribbon.

Step 1:
Cut in a straight line through both layers of fabric just below the decoration on the t-shirt. Cut a second line starting just under the sleeves up and over the decoration. Don’t worry if the decoration looks too big, you can make adjustments later.

Step 2:
Flatten the two pieces and cut up the sides, making sure they are even; if there are existing side seams, cut at the seam. Take the lower section that does not have the decoration on it, fold it in half and cut straight up the middle, once again being sure all the pieces are the same size.

Step 3:
Pin the small pieces, right sides together, to the large pieces with the decoration at (what used to be) the side seams. If either the piece with the decoration or the small piece is longer at the side seam, match at the top and trim the bottom after sewing. Sew the four seams.

Step 4:
Now you should have two pieces, one with the decoration in the middle, and one that used to be the back of the shirt (most likely with nothing on it). The part with the decoration will be the outside and the blank side is now the lining. Pin the lining and the outside, with the right sides of the fabric facing each other, around the side and bottom edges. As you are pinning, if one piece is bigger or longer, trim so that both pieces are the same size. This is also a good time to test the fit. Wrap it around your waist and make sure that the side edges just meet or have a slight gap between them. If they overlap at any point, trim. Sew.

Step 5:
Now you have one piece. Turn it right side out and iron the edges so the seams don’t roll inside. Test the fit again and check if you need to cut the top down in size. The decoration on my shirt was very large so I decided to cut off a few inches at the top in the front. Make sure you keep a nice curve and that it stays symmetrical.

Step 6:
Fold the whole garment in half so the side edges meet. Mark the top and bottom of the fold with the chalk and unfold. This is where it might get confusing. Take the side seams (not the edges) and fold into the center you just marked. Mark the top and bottom of these folds and unfold. Next take the side edges and bring them over to the side seams. Mark these folds. Including the first center marking, you should now have 5 folds marked. Draw a line connecting your top and bottom marks for each fold but the center. You can also draw a line on the side seams to make them easier to see while sewing.

Step 7:
Take your boning and cut pieces the length of each line you just drew, including the side seams (should be 6 pieces total). Take the cover off the boning if it has one.

Step 8:
Starting about 3/8” down from the top, sew straight lines 1/8” on either side of your chalk lines; you will be creating a 1/4” sleeve for the boning. Slide the boning in so that the curve makes the corset curve in (like a corset!).

Step 9:
Iron the unsewn edge of the front and the lining down inside the garment, about ¼”. Pin and topstitch about 1/8” from the edge.

Step 10:
Take your hook and eye tape and cut it to a length slightly shorter than the length of the side edges. Pin it underneath so the hook and eyes are at the edge of the fabric and sew in place (hint: if you want it tighter, sew the hook and eye tap on top of the garment so that the hook/eye edge of the tape lines up with the edge of the garment).

Now wear it!

Happy Friday the 13th, everyone!
<3 Belinda
P.S. Looks like too much work? Custom order it from Belindabilly.

Welcome

2010-08-12T12:00:00.000-05:00

Thank you for visiting the new Belindabilly blog. Starting tomorrow with 2nd Fridays How2 Friday, this is where you will find fashion tips and tricks, how-tos, and discounts every Friday with Belindabilly's Fashion Fridays, and music reviews, upcoming concerts and more on Belindabilly's new Music Mondays. Follow us on Twitter or add us on Facebook to be the first to know about these and other updates!