Frank Lloyd Wright is one of my favorite architects. His style is defined by clean, simple lines. I like how he blurred the line between indoor and outdoor space. His open room layouts of letting the kitchen, dining, and living areas flow into one another fosters a cozy home environment. Being an admirer of his work is what prompted me to respond to an offer on Freecycle for an old Frank Lloyd Wright calendar. After picking up the calendar and checking out the prints of his sketches I didn’t know how I was going to use it. Then one day I found a beautiful, large shabby chic frame in an alley. I decided I would put the frame on the wall and arrange the Frank Lloyd Wright prints in it. All I had to do was cut out the prints from the calendar and apply double sided tape. I then arranged them on the wall within the frame.
My lust for M.I.A’s lace dress in Madonna’s Give Me All Your Luvin’ inspired me to look for a vintage version. I don’t want to copy her look; I want to interpret my own way and I think vintage is the best way to do that. I prefer vintage because I don’t have to worry about someone else wearing my outfit and I’m helping a fabulous item to be reused instead of tossed out.
Of course, if I’m shopping online Etsy is my go to spot. I can search by vintage, price, and other descriptive details. I found all these fabulous dresses by searching for a mini lace vintage dress. Each dress stands out and is uniquely styled.
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This is my favorite look. The white dress over the colorful leggings is magical layering.
Dollparts is the awesome clothing line by Michelle Dimitris. I met her and was introduced to her designs at the Vert Couture Eco Fashion Show. I loved her clothes so much I just had to hang out w/her and find out more. I met her at her studio in Wicker Park for the interview. It felt like when you start spending time with a new friend and are getting to know them better.
*Can you give us a lil intro to yourself?
I grew up near Cleveland and attended Ohio University for Retail Merchandising and Business. In my last year of school, I realized I was more interested in the creative end of apparel, so I immediately went on to a two-year design school. I attended Virginia Marti College of Art & Design in Lakewood, Ohio, which was a fashion design curriculum that focused on the haute couture method of dressmaking. I moved to Chicago a month after graduation and found my first design assistant position for a children’s clothing line. I took on full responsibility of pattern making and assisted with design and production. I later moved on to work for Lara Miller, where I learned more about sustainable fashion.
*What inspired Dollparts?
I started developing Dollparts about a year and a half ago while I was selling vintage clothing. I began modifying some dresses and skirts, which turned into me cutting up the clothing completely and making a new style. I also started buying up unused fabric from other designers and cutters to use for new pieces. I chose the name Dollparts to describe all the pieces and parts that make up the materials my garments are constructed from.
*Do you have a “real” job? If so, what is it?
I eventually plan to work on my clothing line full time, but currently my main position is a freelance pattern maker.
*Would you call yourself a feminist?
I have never used the term “feminist” to describe myself. But I am independent and expect men and women to be treated equally.
*What do you do when you are feeling down to feel better?
I surround myself with positive people that make me laugh.
*How do you find inspiration for your designs?
Vintage clothing is my main inspiration – particularly from the 60s, 70s and early 80s. I also share a workspace with other imaginative individuals. We often feed off of each other’s creative energy.
*What are your wardrobe staples?
Skirts & dresses. Belts. Cardigans & sweaters. I love layers and mixing patterns.
*Who are your favorite fashion designers?
Alexander McQueen was always an inspiration to me. I also love Karl Lagerfeld – not only his designs, but his attitude is extremely inspirational.
*Who are your fashion icons?
Twiggy has been a staple muse for me. Currently, I enjoy Michelle Williams’ and Rachel Bilson’s style.
*Favorite quote?
“Fiction is where genius lies”.-a lyric from the band Guster.
*How do you like Chicago?
I have been in Chicago for just about five years and it definitely feels like home. Chicago is a big city full of small town Midwesterners, which keeps a laidback, friendly atmosphere.
I am in love with these shorts. They are a style similar to vintage tap pants. They almost look like skirts when you are wearing them, but they’re shorts so you don’t have to remember to sit like a lady.
The shorts are of course Dollparts.
Thanks for the interview Michelle! Not sure if you know, Hole has a great song titled Doll Parts and a great video to go along with it.
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