For this year’s Atlanta Frocktails, I found myself captivated by a character who’s been quietly tugging at my imagination for years—the White Rabbit from Alice in Wonderland. There’s something so relatable about his frantic energy, always checking the time, always running late. While he’s worried about being on time, I’m usually calculating how late I can be and still technically arrive on time. Spoiler: I’m often wrong. It’s a cycle of procrastination and anxiety that I know all too well. So when I imagined my look for Frocktails, I thought—why not honor the White Rabbit? After all, time has been chasing me too.
But this look isn’t just about Wonderland whimsy. It’s also deeply inspired by this year’s Met Gala theme, Tailored for You, which includes a focus on Black Dandyism—a celebration of Black elegance, intellect, and expressive style. I’ve been obsessed with this theme since it was announced. As a Black creative, I find it powerful and moving to see style used as a way to reclaim space, display excellence, and celebrate culture. The Black Dandy is well-read, cultured, sharply dressed, and unapologetically themselves. That resonates deeply with me.
My Frocktails outfit merges both inspirations: the urgency and eccentricity of the White Rabbit, and the polished, gender-fluid sophistication of the Black Dandy. I’m drawn to mixing masculine silhouettes with touches of femininity, which helped shape this look. Think tailored lines, elegant layering, and subtle nods to Wonderland.
For the coat, I used Simplicity S3030, which gave me a dramatic, structured base that felt true to the essence of a Wonderland character. The pants were made with Simplicity S8655, a simple pant that offers a sleek, modern fit. For the waistcoat, I chose Butterick 6901, which allowed me to play with the formality and sharp detailing I wanted in this look.
The fabric was key to making everything come together. I used a navy wool blend pinstripe from Fabric Mart, and it was perfect for this look—easy to sew, structured but soft, and full of the classic, timeless energy I was aiming for. I paired it with a deep navy lining from my local fabric store to finish off the inside with a luxurious feel.
To bring in the White Rabbit theme, I added accessories that gave a subtle nod to Alice in Wonderland: a statement brooch, pocket-watch-inspired jewelry, styled nails, and a high-contrast scarf that mimics his whimsical, almost frantic flair. Each element plays a part in balancing the polished world of the Black Dandy with the chaotic charm of Wonderland.
This outfit feels like a personal statement—a fusion of who I am and the ideas that inspire me: time, culture, identity, and style. I couldn’t be more excited to wear it among fellow makers and dreamers.
Shimere | @shim.sew.creative
Charmed from head to toe and fingertips too. A wonderful make.
ReplyDeleteWow!!! The thought, detail and workmanship you put into this look is fabulous!!! Yeah, I run late and go in many directions at once, too, I think, so I really enjoyed what you had to say about your gorgeous outfit!
ReplyDeleteYou absolutely nailed your homage to both inspirations! A great fabric choice and flawless execution. I enjoyed your inspiring narrative as well. More, please! 👌🏾
ReplyDeleteThis whole outfit is gorgeous! Great job!
ReplyDeleteVery well written! I absolutely loved this!
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