Ingrid Voigt

Lakhiatwal

A garment cseeas to be viewed for the design alone when it has emotional significance. I would imagine this dress to be circa 1970. What was your mother thinking about when she wore it? On what wonderful occasions did she wear it? What were your youthful impressions of a radiant mother, gowned in this silver, and likely coiffed with an elaborate upswept hairstyle? Comparing what she wore to functions, and what you wear under similar circumstances will reveal much about changes in society and how we present ourselves. My mother used to get Vogue designer patterns, the best European fabrics she could afford, and have them made up by a talented seamstress. They came out looking like 60s Paris couture! Forty years later, I can remember several of those outfits in great detail, and the accessories that made them distinctly original and chic. Don't we all retain such indelible images of our mother, dressed for special events?The photography can be problematic. I always try light at different times of the day for amazingly varied effects. Also, a black enamel mannequin can sometimes show off a dress in a very different way. I've had similar experiences in which I was also disappointed with the photographic results not easy is it? At least now with digital one can shoot and delete the less favourable images.In my experience, many simple garments lack interest when not on the human form. I am thinking of some of the dresses of Jacqueline Kennedy or Diana, Princess of Wales, that look almost banal when not seen on their charismatic, vital owners. As well, we're so used to seeing clothing on abnormally slender models, and clothing on store mannequins that is inevitably pinned at the back. The eye becomes accustomed to this svelte silhouette, and when the various optical tricks are not employed, I've found that my own results look dumpy!May the projects involving your mother's dresses bring back wonderful memories, beautiful images, and transcendent inspiration!SwF

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