This month, saddle up for an extraordinary journey in fashion with our VDC Club Grace members, as we present an equestrian-inspired creation by Tamara Casey of Designs by Jude. Exclusively crafted for our Club Grace subscribers, Tamara's pattern transports us into the world of sophisticated horsemanship. Aptly named 'Equestrian,' this pattern captures the essence of refined country style and equine grace. Trust us, this design promises to be as timeless and versatile as the equestrian world itself! 🐎✨
This month, Tamara found her muse in our London Society Grace doll to craft an equestrian-themed pattern that resonates deeply with classic English elegance, rather than a Western aesthetic. Her creation couldn't be more fitting for Grace, a doll characterized by her timeless allure and inspired by the dignified beauty of the Princess of Wales. Tamara's pattern seamlessly melds the sophistication of traditional English horseback riding attire with the enchanting gracefulness that our Grace doll embodies. It's a true celebration of enduring style, perfectly aligned with the elegance of both its inspirations: the Princess of Wales and the English equestrian tradition.
The Heritage of Equestrian Fashion in a Doll-Sized World
When we think of equestrian fashion, what often comes to mind are sleek silhouettes, polished boots, and classic patterns like houndstooth and plaid. But the allure of equestrian style goes beyond these basics; it's rooted in a tradition that spans centuries and continents.
The Origin of Equestrian Attire
Equestrian attire dates back to ancient times, when horseback riding was essential for travel, hunting, and battle. Each item in traditional riding attire had a practical function—riding breeches were tailored for comfort and ease of movement, while high boots protected the legs. Tall hats were designed not just as fashion statements but also to provide safety.
Influence on Mainstream Fashion
Designers from Coco Chanel to Ralph Lauren have been inspired by the elegant sophistication of equestrian fashion. The iconic "jodhpur" pants, originally designed for riding, became a fashionable trend in the 20th century and are still widely worn today. Even accessories like leather gloves and belts have equestrian origins but have been adopted into everyday fashion.
Equestrian Style in the Doll World
Our recent collaboration with Tamara Casey brings this rich tapestry of equestrian fashion into the realm of doll couture. The 'Equestrian' pattern is our nod to this timeless style. The design embodies the essence of refined country living and grace, capturing the sophistication and practicality that equestrian attire commands.
A Timeless and Versatile Style
Just like in the human fashion world, equestrian style in the doll universe is versatile. Whether your dolls are attending a country fair or a high-society gathering, the 'Equestrian' pattern fits the bill. The chic detailing and classic cuts make it adaptable for many occasions, mirroring the versatility of real-world equestrian fashion.
With the 'Equestrian Elegance' pattern, we celebrate not just a look, but a whole culture and history, miniaturized to fit our cherished dolls. So, get ready to trot into a world of timeless fashion with this latest addition to the Club Grace collection. 🐎✨
In Club Grace, our talented sewing community truly embraced the elegance of this month's Equestrian pattern. Featured below are exceptional pieces crafted by the skilled hands of Gale Torres, Heidi Page, Julie Dix, and Mary Basden. We're fortunate to have spaces like our Club Grace Facebook group, where members can freely exchange creative ideas and showcase their latest hand-sewn masterpieces.
Capturing Grace: Five Inspirational Photo Setups for Showcasing the Equestrian Pattern from Designs by Jude
Creating the right photo setting will really make Grace in her equestrian outfit come to life. Here are five inspirational photo setup ideas:
Country Estate Backdrop: Position Grace in front of a miniature backdrop of an English country estate or stables. Add tiny details like a saddle, riding helmet, and boots to make the scene more authentic.
Afternoon Tea Picnic: Create a bucolic setting with Grace sitting on a picnic blanket, surrounded by miniature teacups, scones, and jam. This setup will evoke a leisurely afternoon following a morning ride.
Horse Companion: If you have a mini horse prop, place Grace next to it, as if she’s just dismounted. Make sure the horse's coat complements Grace's equestrian attire for a harmonious look.
Misty Morning: Capture Grace in natural light with a soft, misty morning backdrop, showcasing the dew on grass or maybe even a miniature pond in the background to evoke the ambiance of early morning rides.
Fashion Runway: Transform the setting into a high-fashion runway, but with an equestrian twist. Think a red carpet extending from a stable, spotlights, and perhaps even a tiny audience of other dolls dressed to impress.
Each of these settings will highlight different aspects of the equestrian lifestyle and Grace's timeless elegance. Enjoy creating your photo shoots! 📸✨
Learn Alongside Tamara: Master the Equestrian Pattern with Expert Guidance
Interested in crafting the Equestrian pattern with Tamara herself leading the way? Tamara's YouTube channel has captivated nearly 10,000 subscribers—and for good reason! Her engaging video tutorials guide sewers of all experience levels through the intricacies of her designs. Don't miss her latest tutorials, available for viewing below, to master the art of creating this classic Equestrian ensemble.
Spooky Elegance: Tamara's Halloween Creations for Evangeline
As Halloween approaches, Tamara is weaving her magic to create spellbinding patterns for Evangeline, Robert Tonner's mysterious doll who resides in the attic of a mortuary. Intrigued? Head over to Tamara's YouTube channel to catch her latest tutorials and fully immerse yourself in the creative process. Once you're inspired, you can download these hauntingly beautiful patterns directly from Designs by Jude.
The Dark Decorum design was originally introduced in 2013 for Evangeline, American Model, and Tyler Wentworth dolls. All 4 patterns have been revised for a better fit and easier construction. The revised pattern links will be available on 10/20/23.
If you're excited about what you've seen and want to join the fun, becoming a Club Grace as a digital sewing member is just a click away!
1. Club Grace Digital Subscription: For $60, you'll get exclusive access to our digital-only goodies. This includes a monthly pattern and all the charming crafts and downloads that come with our Club Grace Dream Boxes—delivered straight to your inbox.
Be sure not to miss out on any of Tamara Casey's creative endeavors by following Designs by Jude across multiple platforms. Subscribe to her YouTube channel for expert tutorials, bookmark her website for ever-changing sales and brand-new product additions, and give her a follow on Facebook for the latest updates. We're on the edge of our seats, waiting to see what magical designs Tamara will conjure up next!