Peter Hale Cooney III

Sveta Bout Performance Gown

2011-12-31T13:51:00.001-05:00

Recently I had the pleasure of making a dress for my friend and very talented performer Sveta Bout. She knew she wanted something long sleeve, to the floor and made of black velvet. I whipped up a sketch, she approved and I got to work.

I found some really great drippy stretch black velvet up in the garment district that I thought once finished would give the dress a fabulous sultry feel... it did.

I added a long waist tie which added to the shape of the dress and complimented her figure so well. I'm so please with the outcome, Sveta looked and sounded so beautiful. She gave me a shout out midway through her performance after which I received many nice compliments from other fans.

You all should check her music out, she is a true talent. www.svetabout.com

Photo courtesy of Svetabout.com

Boot Black

2011-12-30T20:59:00.001-05:00

Found a great pair of boots at my fav thrift store here in Brooklyn. Ever the sucker for a cuban heel I couldn't resist the purchase (all $15) but I hated the color.

A few coats of india ink to get a good base stain followed by a few coats of acrylic paint for better coverage and topped off with a couple coats of setting medium and viola.. my new black boots!

Oh, and I may have painted the sole blue... why not!?

A Non-Fashion Update

2011-12-30T20:49:00.000-05:00

After what seams like forever (2 years) of growing my hair out I finally cut it all off to donate to the Pantene Beautiful Lengths program to be made into a wig for someone living with Cancer.

I did this in honor of my godfather who is battling Non-Hodgkins Lymphoma.

Rainy Day

2011-12-30T20:39:00.000-05:00

Had some vinyl set aside with a project in mind that I finally got around to executing... a raincape... obviously!

Complete with hood, oversized buttons covering snap closures, and concealed arm slits. All trimmed in black grosgrain.

Can't wait to take this baby for a spin on the next rainy day!

And I'm Back...

2011-12-30T20:06:00.000-05:00

Hiatus much... no excuses. Haha.

Anyway here's a shirt and matching bowtie I made for a childhood friend of mines wedding this past summer. The fabric was super inexpensive from from my neighborhood fabric store. I hand-stitched the contrasting blue and orange tuxedo ruffles which are made from china silk bias on the bus ride home.

And just for kicks I used contrasting blue and orange buttons in an alternating pattern.

On a Whim

2011-06-29T20:32:00.000-04:00

As the title suggests, I whipped up this shirt for no particular reason. I used my self made basic shirt sloper as the base but made some major alterations. I draped a new two piece sleeve, moved the opening to the back, widened the neck and added a pintucked bib.

I wore it right after completion before taking pictures on a night out on the town so please forgive the wrinkles.

Front

Back

Sleeve Detail

Next up: Blazer for a childhood friend's wedding... stay tuned.

200th Post

2011-05-31T23:16:00.000-04:00

200 posts, 1 new shirt.

I'm on a roll!

eBay

2011-05-28T16:21:00.000-04:00

So I decided to put the hat on eBay, check it out here!

Special Thanks to my friend and roommate Abby for being my ever-patient model! The shots came out fabulous!

Bid Away!

Princess Beatrice's Hat... Sort Of

2011-05-27T01:35:00.001-04:00

Let it be known, I feel Princess Beatrice's choice of headwear to the Royal Wedding was brilliant. The piece itself is genius, she was quite stunning head to toe. This is my tribute to her and her fearless approach towards fashion.

With just a day to go before my very best friend Brendan's birthday, I found myself without a look worthy of such an occasion. Princess Beatrice's hat was fresh on my mind, and as I am a sucker for a good head-piece, I decided to go for it. Being extremely busy at work I had my fabulous roommate Abby run out and gather supplies for my Royal Fascinator via text.

Later that night when I arrived home I got right to work. The entire piece is carved from styrofoam and is covered in nude felt which is hand-stitched together.

Once the base was completed I added the bow and tacked down the ruffles for desired effect.

The base again is hand-carved styrofoam from the original circle cutouts. Once the oval was mounted to the base I added an elastic and was ready to go.

Long story, short... I made quite the splash. I'm also thinking of putting it up on ebay, will decide in the next day or 2. Until then, a couple more pics:

Prolific Pattern

2011-05-22T02:08:00.000-04:00

Here's another piece I made from the pattern I draped, used in the last 2 posts. This one is extra special because I finally used the vintage fabric I bought while in Paris circa 2007. I've literally been carrying it around since then, I'm pleased I finally have something to show for it.

This time around I raised the neckline, added a Peter Pan collar with a proper collar stand, and added cuffs to the sleeves. All seams are French and have been topstitched with a thicker thread. The green buttons are just something I had laying around from a menswear class I took at SCAD and if you look carefully you can see I again opted for the pink heart button at the collar.

Looks pretty dapper with a matching bowtie I had made previously.

I'll be wearing both tomorrow for sure!

Summer Shirting

2011-05-19T23:32:00.000-04:00

Using/altering the pattern I draped from the previous post I whipped up this shirt the following day after work. I used some blue and white stripe super-soft light weight cotton I had in my fabric trunk. I then finished it off with some buttons from my late Grandmother's collection she left to me, 6 antique mother of pearl buttons topped with a singular pink heart button. I also used the selvage fringe as decorative accent to the button placket and neckline for that little something extra.

Finished garment.

Heart button detail.

Gratuitous bathroom mirror shot.

Denim Jacket

2011-05-19T23:15:00.000-04:00

Work has been getting busier and busier but there's no rest for the weary! Last weekend (all 1 day) I got around to making a jacket/top I designed a few days prior on a whim before falling asleep. I used some denim I was given at work, the buttons (familiar anyone?) and grosgrain I had laying around at home. I draped the pattern on my form and got sewing. It's double breasted and fully lined in the self fabric.

Perhaps the trickiest part was all the ribbon-work done prior to sewing the pieces together.

A couple pics upon completion.

A quick snap on my way to a meeting.

Perfect for the last few brisk days of spring before the summer swelter!

For My Girls

2011-05-01T21:37:00.001-04:00

Two of my very dear girlfriends from work commissioned me to design and create them headbands. One requested a piece of tulle and grosgrain and the other wanted a tribal head-wrap in the same fabric as my fringe tote. I took a few measurements, drew a few sketches, gathered up some supplies and these are what I came up with.

The Christine: Cotton daishiki half-twist turbanette with fabric covered elastic at back.

The Debbie: Tulle ruffles and paillettes on silk grosgrain with matching elastic at back.

Very excited to hand them off to the girls and see how they look!

Seeing Spots: Cropped Vest

2011-04-28T00:58:00.000-04:00

After work, just for fun, I pulled out some polka dot fabric I had in my fabric trunk and revisited my man-bolero pattern I drafted last week. I added a patch pocket, a double welt pocket and a back tie as well as fully lining it this time around. Not too bad of an outcome, I think I'll wear it tomorrow over one of my black deep v t-shirts. Just right for this pre-summer heat wave we're having here in NYC!

Beekman Bowtie

2011-04-21T00:00:00.000-04:00

You may recall last summer I posted about the first time I met The Fabulous Beekman Boys (click here). More specifically the part about me making them matching bowties. Well on last night's episode "Beekmanpalooza Redux" Brent was sporting his at the Sharon Springs Harvest Festival looking extra dapper. They gave me a heads up the last time I saw them but to actually see my work on their show was an extra special moment. What made it even more meaningful was that it was worn by a man I have a huge amount of respect for.

Here are some screen captures...

I still get a little chill when I look at the pictures.

Rainy Day Draping

2011-04-13T23:43:00.000-04:00

I started draping on my form yesterday, just for fun, to see if anything special would happen.

I liked what was going on with this sleeve drape so I went ahead and made a pattern.

Today I cut the pattern out and got to sewing.

The Outcome: A structured orange ostrich leather man-bolero. Why? Because I can! But in all seriousness I'm extremely pleased with the final garment. Not too bad for a a little time spent playing on the form.

Fringe Tote

2011-04-10T14:26:00.001-04:00

A couple days ago I whipped up a new tote for spring out of some spare fringe trim and daishiki cotton I had in my fabric trunk.

I made it completely from scratch, no pattern, just a ruler and scissors. It's fully lined with a zip closure, I'm pretty pleased with the outcome. And lets just say... when it gets moving, it's a real attention grabber!

Stella Maris

2011-04-10T13:41:00.000-04:00

Was flipping through one of my sketchbooks and decided to illustrate a gown I designed a few weeks back that I really liked. It was from a couture capsule collection I was fantasizing about which I named Stella Maris.

Just for fun.

Smile

2011-03-29T00:27:00.002-04:00

A fabulous way to end my day, much love to everandthen.com for putting a smile on my face before bed.

My shoes on everandthen.com

Thanks to my fabulous pal Corbin for bringing this to my attention!

Shoe Update

2011-03-23T17:28:00.000-04:00

Spring for Neon, Neon for Spring.

DIY Shoe Up-Do

2011-03-18T21:44:00.000-04:00

Spring is in the air and I was in the mood for a new pair of shoes. I stopped by my favorite vintage spot and found a great pair Land's End bucks. A total blank canvas.

They had a few spots and scuff marks here and there but that didn't bug me because I knew I'd be painting them. And for $15, it was a win win situation.

Luckily there's an art supply store a few doors down. I picked up two tubes of bright orange, and blue paint then ran home.

I taped them off using masking tape and got painting.

I'm in love with the final outcome, imperfect and painterly. Tonight I'll be taking them out on the town for a spin!

Ottoman Update

2011-03-04T22:52:00.001-05:00

Today while running errands in the city I stumbled upon The City Quilter and decided to take a peek inside. That's when inspiration struck, the antique ottoman Abby and I have in our living room had seen better days and was in desperate need of an update.

I picked out a few fabric quarters cohesive to our color scheme and was on my way. After a little measuring, pattern planning and a couple hours our sad little ottoman started its new life.

I'm very pleased with the outcome, not too shabby for a last minute idea

Spring Chicken

2011-02-21T15:51:00.001-05:00

As many of you know my one regret in a life of city living is the inability to get my farm fix. More so then ever I have a fantasy of keeping a small flock of chickens on the roof of my building but alas I've come to the conclusion that it's just not rational. This did however lead to hours of research into what type of chickens I'd like to keep if given the chance. Many of you when you hear "chicken" may only picture the average brown or white bird but believe me the range in much wider is size, color, feather patterns and other variables.

I've really fallen for the Polish variety which have fantastic bouffant hair-do's and come in a fabulous variety of colors and patterns.

So what now to do with all this energy and research... design a collection.

Still have to draw out the flats but you can see the progress thus far. I'll probably add more looks too, lately I've been sketching away...

Crafting with Abby

2011-02-18T23:53:00.001-05:00

My roommate Abby picked up some fabric squares at Purl Soho and together we designed and made a quilt panel. Where we go with it from here who's to say? But for now its pretty cute as is...

Valentine's Day Assassin

2011-02-16T14:30:00.001-05:00

As promised, my look from Valentine's Day...

More Love

2011-02-13T18:08:00.000-05:00

Upon seeing my mask, my friends Brendan and Nick requested a little something for themselves. Since these days it's pretty tricky to get these busy boys out at night, I obliged.

Medium: Craft Foam, Felt, Glitter, Safety Pin

Twin Brooches for the Love Birds... Happy Valentines Day Boys.

Psycho Valentine

2011-02-13T17:27:00.000-05:00

Tonight I have a Psycho Valentine themed party to attend at the Griffin hosted by my two favorite event planners Brian Rafferty and Shawn Paul Mazur. Always the sucker for a theme I whipped up a mask to wear...

Medium: Craft Foam, Felt, Glitter, Elastic

For my finished look I'm going for Valentine Day Assassin... pictures to follow.

Teenage Dream

2011-01-18T15:21:00.000-05:00

My dear friend and gifted artist Marlon Henao just posted this picture he snapped of me napping this summer on fire island where we first met. I think it speaks for itself, we've been inseparable ever since.

Check out the rest of his musings here.

Press

2011-01-18T15:13:00.000-05:00

Thank you so much to the ultra talented Corbin Chamberlin for this mention in a recent interview.

I am flattered and honored!

Happy 2011

2011-01-04T18:24:00.003-05:00

Ok so I'm a few days late... Sorry.

I had a wonderful New Year's Eve celebration on the upper east side followed by a head-splitting New Year's Day at my apartment in Williamsburg... but isn't that the point?

I rang in the new year at quite the luxurious party hosted by my dear friend Joey and his family. The last party I attended by this family had quite the theme and I wore quite the number (see here). So this time around I knew I had to outdo myself, so I went a little nuts.

I wore my vintage custom tux from the 70's, a cape I made from gold jacquard fabric and topped it all off with a turban I made a few years back. To give my look a little something extra I added some upholstery tassels.

In the end I look like I pulled a Maria from the Sound of Music and made my outfit out of a curtain. Regardless it was a blast and I certainly made a lot of friends! Ha.

So Happy 2011 and so long 2010!

Blizzard 2010 Continued

2010-12-27T19:22:00.002-05:00

Here are a couple shots from around my home town, it's crazy out there!

Blizzard 2010

2010-12-27T00:37:00.004-05:00

With this blizzard wreaking havoc on the north east I settled in next to the fire and got to knitting. Within a few hours I whipped up new hats for my mom, my dad and myself, belated bonus Christmas gifts if you will.

Dad's

Mom's

Mine

All Three

Me and my new hat, love the giant pompom!

So hopefully this weather will clear so I can get back to NYC. I have big NYE plans and need to create something show-stopping to wear!

Boston Revisited

2010-12-20T23:09:00.003-05:00

My photo from Beyond Boston Chic made it into The Cut Blog for NY Magazine online.

Congrats to the lovely Martini on her blog mention in The Week in Street Style!

Because I Was Cold

2010-12-19T13:11:00.004-05:00

...and bored, I went ahead and made myself a cape to layer on top of a jacket I often wear for extra warmth. I pulled out some thermal quilted sateen I had in my fabric trunk, draped right onto my form, eyed and cut a doubled collar then added a woven rope toggle for closure. To achieve the shape there are no side or back seams, simply shoulder darts. All edges are finished with clean rolled hems. Not only does it supply extra warmth for these cold NYC days but adds that extra jaunty flare I so often go for!

Not to shabby for a quick idea and a little over an hour's time, what do you think?

Boston

2010-12-17T13:22:00.002-05:00

On a quick visit home with two of my absolute favs, John and Marlon, I got style blogged while strolling Newbury St. by a lovely lady named Martini. Check out her work here.

A "Say Something" Hat

2010-12-17T12:36:00.006-05:00

With Ginny's triumphant albeit short return to New York City came a dinner with friends and the need for a look worthy of such an occasion. I decided on a Louis Vuitton bridal button shirt, vintage Gianni Versace trousers and crowned the whole look with a hat I made special for this very event.

I started with bright yellow feathers sold in packs of 4 on sale for $1.15 each at my local craft store. To jazz them up a little I gave them a gradient splatter effect using watered down black acrylic paint purchased for $3.

Once I completed all 16 feathers I let them dry and began sculpting the base from 2 packs of black sculpey clay at a whopping $1 a pack. Once molded to the desired form I evenly spaced 16 holes using the end of a round end of a crochet hook. I then heated the oven to the 275 degrees, placed the mold on foil on a baking sheet and let cook for the instructed length of time.

While my mold was hardening in the oven, I decided for just a little more flare, to tip the feathers with gold glitter. Easily achieved but applying Mod Podge with a paint bush, gently laying glue side down in a mound of glitter and tapping off excess.

Once the mold finished baking and had cooled, I one by one placed each feather in it's coordinating hole permanently cemented by a dollop of hot glue. I then measured a length of waistband elastic I had in my supplies and applied it to the base using a generous amount of hot glue. I covered with with black satin and my Say Something Hat was complete.

I'm pretty sure I made a splash.

Fabric Manipulation Experimentation

2010-12-17T12:31:00.003-05:00

Say that 10 times fast!

Just messing around with some muslin, coming up with ideas for future projects.

The creative juices are flowing.

Running Wilde

2010-12-08T15:14:00.001-05:00

Familiar face at the 5:16 minute mark wearing my New Years Vest.

Good times!

Twinkle Toes: Ode to GBS

2010-11-11T17:38:00.003-05:00

My best girl, former 2 year roommate and all around wunderkind Ginny Branch Stelling's recent blog post entitled Twinkle Toes proved most inspiring.

She writes...

"tis the season to pull out (or invest in) your glittery-iest, shiniest most drag queen fabulous shoes. i have a few in my arsenal already, but am always looking to expand my collection. sequins and glitter are kind of like black licorice, you either love it or hate it. i'm so on team sparkly. besides even if you wear sensible shoes 24/7, this is the most legit time to embrace a little bit of chintz."

And since sparkly man-shoes are a rare commodity I decided to go ahead and make my own. I went out and found a pair of Florsheim oxfords, bought some glitter in black and gold, pulled out my Modge Podge from the craft drawer and got to work.

I'm in love with the outcome, Thanks Ginny!

P.S. I love and miss you very much. I think of you everyday, I've saved all your notes and keep them right next to my bedroom door in a frame with my favorite picture of you. It makes me happy. Creepy?

Mercedes Benz Commercial

2010-11-02T21:03:00.002-04:00

Familiar face at the 13 second mark...

Italian Mercedes Benz GLK Commercial

Just another day.

Halloween

2010-11-02T20:56:00.004-04:00

What a blast! I spent the majority of the weekend with my two best friends Brendan and Nick as well as a few others. We had an unreal amount of fun, here are some pictures from the weekend.

Nick, Susan and Brendan as Mario, Princess Peach and Luigi

Mario and Luigi

Me as Cat(wo)Man and yes I made the entire thing.

Thanks boys for such a fun time!

Halloween Commission

2010-10-27T17:30:00.003-04:00

It's not uncommon this time of year for me to recieve frantic phone calls from friends asking for help with their costumes. A girlfriend of mine needed a Red Riding Hood to complete here Little Red Riding Hood ensemble. A quick trip to the fabric store and just under an hour later... voila, a red cape from scratch complete with oversized hood and lace trim.

I love Halloween!

Halloween Inspiration

2010-10-23T23:12:00.000-04:00

I kid you not...

Labels, Labels, Labels

2010-09-23T19:02:00.004-04:00

Abby and I committed a big New Yorker no-no and braved the tourist hell-hole that is Century 21. Abby snagged a super cute polka dot top by Chloe while I picked up a pair of wide leg chambray Vivienne Westwood Red Label trousers. Unfortunately for me no matter how hard I try they just don't work on me. I don't want to resell but I think they're destined for the thrift store.

Today however is another story, I stopped by one of my favorite hidden gems of a thrift store an stumbled upon these... 90's era Gianni Versace high-waisted trousers.

They fit like an absolute dream... I'm now contemplating 90's Miami gaudy Versace for my pre-fall look. Deal with it.

Breathe

2010-09-23T18:34:00.003-04:00

I now have a couple spare minutes on my hands to breathe. So here are a few shots I took during my most crazy Fashion Week to date.

L'Ecclise Lineup at Milk Studios

Monique at Marc by Marc Jacobs during Fashion's Night Out

Me and a Beekman Goat at Henri Bendels during Fashion's Night Out

Candy Cocktail at SCAD's Fashion Night Out at Dylan's Candy Bar

Julian Louie's Presentation at Milk Studios

My Pictures in the new Men and Women of Marc Jacobs Book

Pamela Love Presentation at Milk Studios

After all the craziness I escaped to Fire Island for a little rest and relaxtion.

Right off the ferry I was greeted by family of swans. Don't worry, I told the ugly one he'd be a beauty soon.

I opened an Meat Market... Just Kidding

Had the most amazing time with these two, brothers Brendan and Rory... and yes we did go swimming in the out of control surf! Thanks for the amazing time guys, was the perfect ending to a crazy Fashion Week.

I Caved

2010-09-01T13:11:00.001-04:00

Follow me on twitter...

@PHCIII

A Trip Home

2010-09-01T12:17:00.005-04:00

You can take the boy out of New England but you can't take the New England out of the boy.

On a recent trip home I picked up right where I left off living la vida Massachusetts.

Prepared and Apple Pie.

Baked and Apple Pie.

Ate an Apple Pie.

Spent the mornings sunning and drinking daiquiris with my puppies Tallulah and Oggie.

And when it got too hot relocated under the deck umbrella and poured another daiquiri.

My dad and I took a trip to the local 4H fair which once upon a time I was the horse show champion. Who says you can't wear gladiator sandals while touring the animal, agriculture and horticulture houses?

We took the boat and kayaks out. Pulled our two lobster traps, went to P-Town for lunch and saw a few whales on the way back.

Was a great trip home, relaxing and rejuvenating. Oh and I got an Iphone 4, yay!

BeetleDee and BeetleDum

2010-08-25T16:46:00.002-04:00

My dear friend and fellow SCAD alum Devin Borden gifted me this work of art for my birthday. I've been asking Devin for one of his bug pieces for quite some time now and he finally followed through. I could not be more pleased with my gift, thank you Devin!

BeetleDee and BeetleDum
Devin Borden
July 2010

Birthday Blazer

2010-08-25T16:28:00.004-04:00

I went crazy with this one. As seen from my birthday post this is the blazer I made for my Ultimate Grand Supreme ensemble.

As per usual made from my own patterns and fabric I have in my collection. Part Chanel, Part Alexis Mabille Couture, Part PHCIII it now sleeps peacefully in the archives.

Dandy DIY

2010-08-25T16:01:00.003-04:00

This afternoon I stopped by one of my fav thrift stores after a brunch date with Abby and found these little beauties. I was most attracted to the color, part dove grey part old lady orthopedic, I had to have them! At a whopping $10 who could say no?

Now what to do about those weak tassels? I gathered up some trim I had lying around and got to work.

Using some jacquard ribbon and small buckles I constructed a couple bows to apply. Once completed I stitched them right on top of the tassels. Handsome, no?

I'm quite pleased with the outcome and with fashion week just around the corner I'm dying to take them out for a spin!

Spirit Animals

2010-08-19T14:18:00.006-04:00

Took a break from my very busy schedule (sarcasm) to visit the Bronx Zoo with my friend and fellow animal enthusiast Scott Cooper.

Animals everywhere...

It was a great day!

Robyn, Kelis, Marlon and Peter

2010-08-07T21:23:00.002-04:00

Equal One Epic Night!

Thank you Marlon for the ticket... yeeaaahhhh!

Oh What a Night

2010-08-02T15:37:00.004-04:00

Thank you so much to all my friends for making my special day the best one to date. What a blast!

One of my two yummy cakes from Sugar Sweet Sunshine.

I made the crown out of pipe-cleaners for a whopping $2 and the sash out of some spare fabric and trim I had lying around.

Crazy Balloon Bouquet from the Balloon Saloon.

Thank you Nick and Brendan for hosting the party at your building, hope I didn't get you evicted!

Runner-up Monique and I.

Ultimate Grand Supreme.

And of course I put on a little show for my friends.

Special thanks to my best friend in the entire world Brendan for making sure I didn't have a care in the world all night and that everything went off without a hitch. Thank you so much Yaya you made my Birthday everything and then some!

SCAD TV

2010-08-02T12:55:00.002-04:00

The Video from my André Leon Talley Adventure at SCAD.

Enjoy.

Turning 26

2010-07-30T14:42:00.002-04:00

Tomorrow is the big day but I already received a pretty huge birthday gift.

Huge Thank You to Corbin Brett Chamberlin and Peter Davis!

I've been sewing away on a few different looks for tomorrow's festivities, I will post pics after the big debut!

More to come!

The Fabulous Beekman Boys

2010-07-13T22:36:00.003-04:00

Today I was lucky enough to attend a lecture series entitled "Farm To Table" curated by Dr. Brent Ridge of The Fabulous Beekman Boys. Housed in the Elixir Lounge of ABC Carpet and Home today's lecture was named "The Grass is Always Greener" and was to be a reading of "The Bucolic Plague" by it's author, the other half of the Beekman Boys, Josh Kilmer-Purcell. Let's just say I've been a fan of Mr. Kilmer-Purcell's work since I read "I Am Not Myself These Days" when I first moved to New York three years ago, so you can imagine my excitement. After the reading the Beekman Boys answered questions, entertained compliments from the crowd and signed copies of the book. I read "The Bucolic Plague" in one sitting on a recent trip back home to Massachusetts and had my copy ready to go.

Pre-lecture, in a last minute attempt to show some sort of gratitude, I whipped up two matching bowties in gray and white stripes for the boys, one with purple taffeta backing and one with pink satin backing. I was nervous to present them but when having my book signed I got up the nerve and handed them over with a card. They graciously accepted and thanked me, I flew over the moon.

Josh and Dr. Brent were extremely humble and charming. Anyone near and dear to me knows that one day I hope to live on a farm raising livestock and living off my land. These men have paved the way, serve as role models to me and are the image of what I hope to achieve one day.

To have got to briefly talk to them and gain a little insight in to what their day to day lives are like was a dream come true. They really are Fabulous. I implore anyone and everyone to watch their show The Fabulous Beekman Boys on Planet Green, I guarantee you will enjoy.

Thank you Dr. Brent Ridge and Josh Kilmer-Purcell for being you and being so fabulous!

Portfolio Preview

2010-07-12T14:50:00.007-04:00

Here's a look at a 10 piece collection I've been working on for my portfolio. I drew inspiration from a variety of Malaysian Jewel Beetles.

Some of these beetles known as the Elytra Beetle can be harvested for their wing husks to be used in various applications. I obviously would use them as sequins.

Hope you enjoyed, would love some feedback, let me know what you think.

Portfolio Work

2010-07-12T14:39:00.004-04:00

Some more sketches I've been working on.

Stylelikeu

2010-07-09T12:18:00.002-04:00

Check it out!

Huge Thank You to Elisa Gookind and Her Team!

Stars and Stripes

2010-07-01T13:40:00.005-04:00

I'll be spending the weekend with friends on Fire Island for the 4th of July holiday. The house I'm staying at throws a huge poolside party so of course I had to put a little something together. So far I've finished the vest, fully lined made from an actual American flag bought at my local drugstore and some red silk satin I had laying around. Now I just have to finish the bottoms and I'll be all set.

P.S. It's not illegal to cut up the flag, I checked.

At The Ballet...

2010-06-11T11:32:00.005-04:00

...everything is prettier.

Followed by Boom Boom Room aka a very slippery slope into bathroom mirror photos!

Tuxedo by Marc Jacobs Collection
Bowtie and Capelet by Peter Hale Cooney III

You Only Live Once

2010-06-09T23:55:00.003-04:00

Jon Lynn's Unsolved Mysteries' new video "You Only Live Once" with a special cameo of yours truly as concert Maître d'.

Congrats Jon on another amazing song and video, always your number one fan!

Unsolved Mysteries - You Only Live Once from Ryan Dickie on Vimeo.

Brought to you by a whole lot of SCAD grads.

Gone Riding

2010-05-30T16:17:00.003-04:00

It's not often I get the chance to go riding anymore, but when I do I go for it!

Best day ever!

Fire Island

2010-05-23T23:04:00.004-04:00

Just back from a long weekend on Fire Island for my friend Brendan's birthday. Here are some shots...

And now it's back to reality!

André Leon Talley Honorary Caftans: The Collection

2010-05-20T15:03:00.003-04:00

Honoring 10 years of the André Leon Talley Lifetime Achievement Award through a show of André's signature garment inspired by the style of each award winning designer.

Oscar de la Renta

Karl Lagerfeld

Muiccia Prada

Zac Posen

Tom Ford

Vera Wang

Marc Jacobs

John Galliano

Isabel and Ruben Toledo

and Diane von Furstenberg

Designed by Peter Hale Cooney III
With the Assistance of Ginny Branch Stelling, Jeff Dickhaus, Molly Dunbar and John Gardner
All Photos Courtesy of The Savannah College of Art and Design

André Leon Talley Honorary Caftans: The Process

2010-05-20T14:14:00.004-04:00

All Photos Courtesy of the Savannah College of Art and Design

Another

2010-05-20T12:55:00.002-04:00

Sneak Peek

2010-05-20T11:47:00.002-04:00

A quick shot at who knows what time at night of the first 3 we had finished.

Tonight and Today

2010-05-20T11:02:00.002-04:00

Connor Dodd and Clayton Verdoorn are not only wonderul hosts to out-of-towners such as myself but they're also wonderfully gifted artists.

Check out their work here.

Check it out, leave some love, inquire about pricing, they're going to be huge, you heard it here first!

Back So Soon

2010-05-20T10:32:00.004-04:00

It's true Savannah does at some point or another pull you back in. It seemed I just got settled back in NYC when I was called back down. I was commissioned by my alma matter to design and create 10 Caftans honoring the legendary André Leon Talley and his lifetime achievement award winners. Always up for a challenge I of course accepted and thus began on an adventure I won't ever forget.

The video can be viewed here.

I'll post pictures as soon as I receive them. Until then enjoy the video.

Unmeasurable thanks to Ginny Branch Stelling, Jeff Dickhaus, Molly Dunbar and John Gardner for all your hard work and support. This would have not been possible without all your help! Thank you.

All my love to Rebecca Gardner and Susie Mascotte, for thinking of me, making this happen and making sure me and my team had everything we needed! Thank you ladies so much!

Thank you to Paula Wallace and the rest of the SCAD staff and family, I look forward to many more adventures!

What a whirlwind!

In the brief moments of free time we had, I snapped a few more photos of the southern charm Savannah possesses that I didn't know I missed so much.

Mommy

2010-05-09T11:58:00.001-04:00

Happy Mother's Day!

I Love You!

La Cage Aux Folles

2010-05-08T16:16:00.002-04:00

Do yourself a favor, just go see it!

Still haven't come down yet, Thank You Brendan and Nick!

And Thank You Kelsey Grammer.

SCAD Style Week

2010-05-08T15:33:00.007-04:00

I was lucky enough to be invited down to Savannah to moderate the lectures of Michael Schmidt, Sally Brunger and Victoria Bartlett for SCAD's Style Week. It was great to be back, to visit some of my old stomping grounds, tour the facilities, and catch up with old friends. It was a wonderful trip, I have so many stories but I'm going to have to plead the 5th: what happens in Savannah, stays in Savannah! Instead Ill share some pictures I took.

The lecture I moderated was held in the student center, formally a synagogue. SCAD does the most wonderful work with historic buildings.

The space at soundcheck before our audience arrived.

The view of the ceiling after I fainted as time came closer to speak.. just kidding!

The lecture was a great success and in the end was more fun then nerve-racking.

In my free time I enjoyed walking Forsyth Park and taking in all the southern charm Savannah has to offer.

Though lots has changed, some things stayed the same.

My trip ended with a beautiful dinner party in the courtyard of an old jail house turned SCAD athletics offices. The lanterns are of course work of SCAD Alumni.

Already looking forward to my next trip back!

Little Red Riding Hood

2010-04-24T12:42:00.003-04:00

A little number I whipped up for the SCAD Étoile Awards here in NYC. Made from pin-tucked silk chiffon with patent camellia flower and 5 black mink tails closure.

The only big bad wolf I came across that night was in the form of that last gin and tonic I had.... woof.

Art from Accident

2010-04-24T12:11:00.003-04:00

Legend has it that, that during one of the rowdy nights down on Anna Maria Island, someone (the jury is still out) may or may not have fallen asleep with a big glass of merlot (never drink merlot!) in his or her hand.

A quick coat of paint, a couple loads of laundry and a few million apologies later the laughs were back on!

Ever the creative, the marvelous Karen Hasler immortalized this Anna Maria Incident in a mixed media collage with the signature saying of the trip.

Wine truly flies when you're having fun! Thank you so much Hasler family and again... sorry!

One More

2010-04-12T22:04:00.003-04:00

An action shot just for fun.

Thanks Max for the photo and thank you again Ginny for the invite!

Urban Garden Update

2010-04-11T17:02:00.003-04:00

Spring Has Sprung!

Pink Planter: Strawberries

Top Terra-cotta Pot: Carrots

Bottom Terra-cotta Pot: Mesclun Mix

Green Planter Top to Bottom: Lavender, Basil, Rosemary and Sage

With more seeds sprouting everyday I'm gonna need to move this production to the roof!

Body of Work

2010-04-09T23:44:00.005-04:00

Some old, some new, I decided to photograph a selection of my work to share with the world. Questions, comments, and constructive critiques are greatly appreciated.

See below posts.

Enjoy.

Note: They're photographed on my female form (named Barbara after my late maternal grandmother) to be added to my womenswear portfolio, even though they were all made on my male form (named Frank after my late maternal grandfather) to fit me. Androgyny at it's finest.

2010-04-09T23:31:00.002-04:00

My most recent creation for the Margiela fragrance release party. A tribute to the Margiela employee robes, with my own twist of course. Made of silk chiffon, pleated silk trim and snap tape.

2010-04-09T23:20:00.002-04:00

Made for my last Marc Jacobs Collection Show. 100% Leather, this was a fun one!

Sleeve detail.

Design Development

2010-04-09T23:11:00.002-04:00

Vest Made for New Years Eve Party. Applique made from multi sized gathered circle cutouts in tulle, organza and satin.

Right before heading out.

2010-04-09T23:01:00.002-04:00

Sequin Cape. Made for my dear friend Joey Kuhn's Super Sweet 25th Birthday party. Oh and it was Glitter themed, as in Mariah Carey's movie Glitter. Hence the sequins, all 10 yards of it, 5 full circles!

This photo about sums it up!

2010-04-09T22:46:00.003-04:00

Modified Shadbelly Riding Coat. Made for my 3rd Marc Jacobs Collection fashion show. Constructed of moire, silk faille and silk satin. Ever the equestrian.

Photos from the after-party.

2010-04-09T22:23:00.003-04:00

Band jacket made just for fun. Literally as I was sewing the last button on, news broke of Michael Jackson's passing (Ginny can attest to this). This news took the "just for fun jacket" in a way other direction and coast, Within days it flew from New York to LA to be shot for MYKROMAG at Michael's actual funeral.

MYKROMAG Shots.

Street Shot from Heron Preston's Blog

2010-04-09T22:11:00.002-04:00

Drop shoulder duster robe. Made from vintage silk velvet and gilded pearl buttons.

Gilded Button Detail

Made to wear to my 4th Marc Jacobs Collection show. Photo from New York Magazine.

2010-04-09T21:56:00.003-04:00

Cape inspired by the Sanderson Sister's wardrobe from the movie Hocus Pocus. Made of silk chiffon and silk cotton blend sateen.

Tuxedo pintucking and modified shawl collar detail.

Made to wear to my second Marc Jacobs Collection Show.

MMM Margiela

2010-04-09T21:18:00.003-04:00

Fragrance Release Party at Margiela

Thank you to Ginny Branch Stelling

Anna Maria Island, A Pictorial

2010-04-06T22:54:00.008-04:00

In no specific order I present a Pictorial of My Easter Weekend on Anna Maria Island, Florida.

Hosted graciously by the Hasler Family, a tight-knit clan with an amazing sense of humor!

Ed,

Duncan,

and the One and Only Karen!

Ed, Karen, Abby and Ben, thank you so very much for a long weekend I will remember forever! It was such a treat to get to spend the Easter holiday with you all. Love you tons.

Still Life

2010-03-28T11:59:00.004-04:00

My haul from yesterday all cleaned up.

If I had to pick a favorite, it would have to be the art deco-esque clear glass bottle to the right of the twin cobalt glass bottles. I wonder what it's original use was?

Detail Shot:

Such a great day, thank you Chelsea, Ginny and Matt.

Bottle Beach at Dead Horse Bay

2010-03-27T21:45:00.003-04:00

Today will go down in history as one of my favorite days I've had thus far in New York City. Chelsea, Ginny, Matthew and I set off for what would be an adventured packed excursion out of the city. If you're ever in the mood for a treasure hunt I suggest you head out to Bottle Beach, you will not be disappointed!

Ginny Branch Stelling's account of our day sums it up perfectly.

Photo Courtesy of Chelsea Cook.

Richard Strikes Again

2010-03-22T23:13:00.002-04:00

Hero

Give me a theme, and I'm gonna go with it, hardcore.

Happy Birthday Ulysses!

Great Weekend

2010-03-21T19:58:00.003-04:00

The weather this weekend was superb, Spring surely has sprung! I spent Saturday and Sunday up on my roof enjoying the sunshine.

On Saturday I got a sandwich, a bottle of cheap champagne, climbed up on the roof and relaxed overlooking the city. It was Heaven. I had such a great time that today I repeated my roof top adventure with Abby. We talked, we laughed, we napped, we had an amazing day.

My roof is my new favorite hangout spot.

In My Spare Time

2010-03-16T02:37:00.003-04:00

Or lack there of, I didn't realize the deadline to complete my 12yo cousin's dance recital dress (see previous post) was in just a few short days. Needless to say its 2:35am and I just finished. Quick stop to Fedex tomorrow morning before work for a little overnight delivery action and then we'll be right back on schedule for her to sparkle on thursday.

I hope you like it Rachel!

Remember...

2010-03-15T19:53:00.003-04:00

... that story I told a few posts back?

SCREAM!

Image Courtesy of WWD Beauty Biz

Spring Has Sprung

2010-03-13T14:05:00.003-05:00

Abby and I started our herb and vegetable garden mere days ago. With advice from our local gardening shop and a whole lot of sunshine, things are really getting started.

Abby is in charge of the chamomile, thyme, mesclun, and fenugreek, I'm in charge of the tomatoes, green and yellow beans. Tomorrow we're heading to home depot for some repotting supplies to prepare for the big move outside, that is when New York heats up a little more.

More to come.

Monday Night Magazine

2010-03-09T09:36:00.001-05:00

Volume No. 1
Issue No.1

Next Project

2010-03-05T22:25:00.003-05:00

My cousin Rachel's Ballroom Dancing Recital Gown... she's 12.

Make it PINK!

Pattern completed, picked up fabric today, my goal is to have it all sewn up this weekend. We'll see how that goes, I'll keep you posted.

Phenomenon

2010-02-26T23:16:00.001-05:00

So something happened on the way to the kitchen...

Eyeballs

Miracle!

Happy Birthday Mom

2010-02-24T21:40:00.001-05:00

I Love You!

Just Another Day

2010-02-21T16:37:00.002-05:00

At Work