The Style Dialogues presents the 

Fashionista Mentoring Fashion & Sewing Camp


Does your child LOVE Fashion?  


The Style Dialogues presents The Fashionista Sewing & Mentoring Camp for Kids.  
This is an in depth fun beginning sewing class & fashion camp.  We offer 12 sessions per month  - 2 hours each session*  Each camp class is for a month.  June 2015 & July 2015.

{Both girls & boys are encouraged to register for both classes}

The Fashionista Sewing summer camp is focused on developing sewing skills and creating clothing that children can wear as well as creating craft and jewelry projects.   The camp structure introduces children to the Fashion Design Concept, including different sewing techniques, basic pattern manipulation, fashion illustrations, draping, design, quilting, making jewelry, meeting new friends, and having fun with sewing. Students will learn how to create a "Fashion Board",  which will help inspire creativity and individuality.   We will discuss fashion images vs. trends and positive body images.  This camp is great way to build positive self esteem.  

Our sewing camp is developed in a non-competitive way to encourage learning at each students own pace. We want our camp to be a fun environment to learn. Our sessions are taught in an individual manner, as each student is working on their own project, at their own pace, including how to fix mistakes, and learn from them.   

Students will learn the parts of a sewing machine and how to thread the sewing machine,  how to use a pattern, complete a fabric and cutting lesson, how to draft their own pattern and learn sewing terminology.  Students will learn the history of "Dressmaking & Tailoring".  We will discuss possible career paths in the Fashion Industry.  Students will design and complete several projects per week of the 12 sessions.   There are 3 sessions per week.  

Monday, Wednesday & Friday of each week at  6:00pm - 8:00pm at Hobby Lobby { Medlock Corners } 5805 State Bridge Rd,  Duluth,  GA 30097

to register to camp


One day a week students will have study group, lectures, lessons and special guest speakers to give them a glimpse of the "Fashion Industry".   We will have possible scheduled field trips (parents are encouraged to attend) {OPTIONAL}

Each student will receive a Fashionista tote bag, a binder for references and notes, t-shirt and tutu/skirt designed by student.  

The Fashionista Sewing Camp is a great place for young girls and teens to build meaningful friendly relationships in a positive environment with their peers.  Sewing as a profession and career has become a lost art and non-respected talent.  The days of custom tailoring, seamtresses and a personal dressmaker has long gone away.  Let's bring this art back to the forefront and help me with funding 20 students to the "Fashionista Sewing & Mentoring Camp" this summer.   

Help sponsor and nurture a child's creative talent and dreams, whose family may not be able to financially support their passion, dreams and talent.   This is a wonderful way to inspire a young designer's passion for "FASHION".    With your help and generous donations,  we would like to supply all of the students machines, pins, scissors and all the tools needed to make their projects.  

Help me sponsor 20 little "FASHIONISTAS"  to go to Sewing & Fashion camp.  Make a little "Fashionista" "PROJECT RUNWAY" dreams a reality!

To attend a traditional art college camp is $4000 per child per week.   Summer Camps for children can be expensive and short term.
To attend "The Fashionista Sewing Camp" is $250 per month, per child.  Students will have two months to gain attainable mentoring.

By supporting and help with funding the students it helps to pay for students materials, supplies for projects,  tote bag, a binder for references/notes, camp t-shirt and tutu/skirt and more importantly funding allows each student to have their own sewing machines to continue their creative and artistic journey after camp is over.   Having a sewing machine is a key component for a young designer to continue to stay encouraged, to develop more creativity, it also allows them to exercise and strengthen their artistry.

for donations to sewing camp 




The Benefits of Learning to Sew: 

What are the benefits of children learning to sew? 
I come from a long line of seamstresses, as a matter of fact  I started sewing by hand at the early age of 5 years old, that was the beginning of my passion for fashion.  It has always been a dream of mine to share my talent with others, and what better way than to teach children and give them the opportunity that I didn't have growing up.

I attribute learning to sew as a child, to my love of sewing as an adult.  I learned to sew because I had a desire and passion to be creative, not because I had to, and that is one of the keys to any child developing a life-long love of sewing. Sewing is really a life skill that teaches discipline and extends itself into other areas of life. Which brings me to the benefits of learning how to sew that will create key life skills. 

Children learning to sew creates:
• Develop discipline & concentration

• Patience

• The ability to follow instructions

• Develop mechanical & motor skills

• It brings out creativity

• Independence

• Self-confidence


Clinical Study:

"Sewing Stimulates Creativity in Children"
The Associated Press writes "sewing stimulates creativity",  "Children who know how to sew are likely to have an edge the high-tech economy of the future" says the Home Sewing Association.  Activities like sewing and problem - solving skills, according to clinical study commissioned by the H.S.A, stimulates creativity.  But the children who spend their free time playing with handheld computer games or watching television, does not.

The study involved 100 students between ages of 8 to 12 and was designed by Dr. Robert Reiner of NewYork University psychiatry department. Sewing's choices of color selection, fabric options, design and proportion help stimulate and focus creative energy and build self - esteem, according to the study.


The "Fashionista Sewing & Mentoring Camp" methods help build creativity, self-esteem and reduce stress. While developing patience and perseverance; enhancing problem-solving and other important life skills.  Students experience a sense of accomplishment with each finished project, while improving hand/eye co-ordination and other fine motor skills.

Sewing allows children to express themselves and have FUN in a positive harmonious environment.  Sewing is a skill that lasts a lifetime!  The opportunities are limitless!  Sewing can provide great financial rewards.

"Introducing a child to sewing gives tremendous lifelong benefits and it opens windows to career paths & Entrepreneurship". 

The 11-Year-Old Fashion Entrepreneur Behind 'Mo's Bows'




The Memphis, Tennessee-based youth is carving himself a place in the fashion world one bow tie at a time.

Young Master Bridges – Mo, for short – has been designing and sewing his own ties since his grandmother taught him how when he was nine years old. Like all innovators (yeah, I said “innovators,” let’s give it to him) his product ideas arose out of a lack he saw on the market.

“I really was a young dapper man and I couldn’t find any other bow ties that I really like,” he told Fox News.  “So my grandma – my lovely grandma – she’s been sewing for over 80 years, or something crazy like that, so I wanted to start my own business making bow ties.”

“You don’t have to wait until you’re older,” his mother Tramica Morris said. “If you have a dream and you have a passion, we say go for it.”

Bridges chooses the fabrics for his creations himself and is quite particular about the styles. His pieces range from relatively traditional polka-dots and stripes to multi-colored paisley and sports team-themed ties. He has earned over $30,000 thus far with his one-man (one-boy) business, selling on his own Etsy page accessible from his website.

But Bridges is also attracting the attention of retail stores. According to his site, his wares are available in boutiques in Tennessee, Alabama, Texas, Louisiana, South Carolina and Arkansas. He recently got a shout-out from Oprah Winfrey’s O Magazine.

Read more about this young "Fashion Trailblazer" 
 http://www.forbes.com/sites/karstenstrauss/2013/08/06/the-11-year-old-fashion-entrepreneur-behind-mos-bows/

Projects:

The students will design clothing items based on skill level, including choices of PJ bottoms, skirts, tops, pants, Capri’s, sweatshirts, dresses, and much more.  Students will also have choices of creating their own unique quilted pillows, stuffed letters,  jewelry making and craft projects.

There will be a fashion show presented to the parents at the end of camp with lots of fun and  surprises!

 
This is the perfect beginner Sewing 101 class for your "FASHIONISTA".   (SEWING 101 IS FOR AGES 7 & UP)  

NOTE: All camp students must be at least 7 years old - NO EXCEPTIONS! 

 

ALL SUMMER CAMP SESSIONS START JUNE 01, 2015 &  MUST BE COMPLETED BY JULY 31, 2015

Supplies, materials & sewing notions needed prior to start of camp:

1. Sewing machine & carrying case w/wheels

2. Tape measure

3. Clear gridded ruler

4. Thimble

5. Fabric scissors

6. Seam ripper

7. Pins

8. Marking pen/pencils

9. Pin cushion

Note: Additional supplies and fabric ... will be needed once camp starts for projects. To ensure each and every student has all materials needed, you will be helping with your donation to make a young designers dreams possible. 

Thank You kindly for your support!


Private sewing lessons are available upon request.  See instructor for more information. 





JENNY PACKHAM
PLUS SIZE DESIGNER
One of the UK’s most successful and independent fashion brands with global recognition, Jenny Packham has become the design house of choice when it comes to evening dressing and bridal wear.
Launched in 1988, Packham’s distinctive signature has contributed to revolutionise the bridal industry, introducing a contemporary approach to design and styling. The eponymous label now comprises ready-to-wear, resort, bridal, accessories and lingerie collections.
Jenny Packham has flaghip stores and showrooms in London, Paris and New York. The collections are available at the world’s most discerning stores: Harrods, Harvey Nichols, Neiman Marcus and Bergdorf Goodman.
Red carpets the world over are graced with Packham’s designs worn by the most iconic, talented and influential women of our generation including: Catherine Zeta Jones, Angelina Jolie, Amy Adams, Cameron Diaz, Kate Winslet, Diane Kruger, Dita von Teese, Kate Hudson, Oscar winner Adele Adkins and The Duchess of Cambridge.

Jenny Packham Put Plus-Size Models on the Runway
 



Few weeks ago, British designer Jenny Packham presented her 2015 bridal collection during New York’s Bridal Fashion Week. The goddess-inspired show opened with Lana Del Rey’s enchanting single Once Upon a Time and—more surprisingly—plus-size model Marquita Pring. Pring wasn’t the only plus-size beauty cast in the show. Later, Camilla Hansen modeled an open-back gown and Ashley Graham closed the show in a flowy, bohemian number. Graham spoke highly of the experience, saying, “The collection was undeniably magical. All of the nude tones with crystals she used were breathtaking. Every model backstage was picking which look they would like to wear for their wedding!”
 
Marquita Ping, stated, “I was honored to be one of three plus-size girls in the show! It didn't feel any different than walking in any other show, I just happened to be with a lot of straight-size models…I have never closed a show before, so to do it in one that has also never incorporated curves was an honor!” - See more at:
 
 
 

 
 

Naturalicious In the City! Style File





Where the Naturalista meets .... the Stylish Diva!


 Lupita Nyong'o, Critics Choice Awards in Calvin Klein Collection, January 16, 2014

Ok..... I love this Canarnie evening gown that Solange Knowles is wearing
at the Met Ball
Her hair is "SMASHING!"
Lupita Nyong'o in Ralph Lauren | Golden Globes 2014

Lupita Nyong’o in Proenza Schouler

Thriftstore Thursdays

Hello Style Mavens!
 
 


Ok ...yesterday was
 
 
I posted on INSTAGRAM!
 
but it's never too late to post a "GOOD FIND" from "GOODWILL"
 
Here's my Thriftstore find, I actually bought a lot of great pieces a couple a months ago... I have been using a lot of the clothing that I've purchased at the "Thriftstore" 
 in "PHOTO SHOOTS"
 
 
 
 
Ann Taylor - Black Velvet Red pinstripe Blazer $3.00
Chadwicks - Red Wool wideleg cuff Trousers $3.00
Steve Madden - Black Sequin Heels {MINE}
 
I actually wore this outfit in a {PHOTO SHOOT}.... I will show pics later! 
 
 
 Here's another pic ... Photo Shoot using Thrifted clothes
Black Vintage Dress $4.00
Earrings {Mine}
Vintage Belt {MINE}
Sexy Little Stilettos {MINE}
 
 
Being a wardrobe stylist . .. . you would say I am a {CLOTHES COLLECTOR}
I purchase clothes, shoes & accessories throughout the year! 
You never know!
 
 

 
GAP Sweater $2.00
Designer Suade Black Booties {FREE}
Leather Belt $2.00
 
 

 

Handmade! Sweaters ...

 

 
I love handmade or custom made designs/fashions/accessories etc....being a designer myself... I love the details of custom made clothing.   I admire the craftmanship, dedication and hardwork that goes into creating beautiful peices.  

 The days of getting all of your clothes custom made in the tailor shop around the corner are no more...
which is why I will be highlighting those tailors and fashion designers for you! 

Designers that make custom made fashions/products are just as talented as the "BRAND LABEL" designers.   In fact, the products are just as good, if not even better quality, each item/piece is designed & crafted with care, not "MANUFACTURED", there isn't a identical twin to your custom piece.  
Please support "Handcraft Designers" in your community.


Look at the fine details of these sweaters,  just "GORGEOUS!"

 
 

To purchase & check out other "GORGEOUS"  kintted sweaters
 
 
 
 
Misti Brioche Honeycomb Sweater by
for pdf instructions on how to make this beautiful sweater & other like it!
 
 
 
Oh! how beautiful is this cozy little number!
By Designer NihanAltuntas
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

 
 
Yes.... I am obsessed with "BEAUTIFUL SWEATERS"  .... truth be told I'd rather wear a cute sweater than a "COAT" 
 
 
 
Todays "QUOTE"
 
 

Ooh la la... Boudoir!

Hello Style Mavens!



BoudoirFrench: is a lady's private bedroom, sitting room or dressing room. 
The term derives from the French verb bouder, meaning "to be sulky" or boudeur, meaning "sulky"


It's almost Valentines Day! ladies ...
Give your loved one something "SPECIAL" for "Valentine's Day!"

Boudoir Photos! 




Book your 2 hour Session today
included with Photo Shoot:
Professional MUA
Wardrobe & Hair Stylist
Professional Photographer



Today is the perrfect DAY to start living your DREAMS!

Hello Style Mavens!

 


Today is the 8th day of your 2014 .... 365 page "NEW BOOK" ..this is the time to do something "NEW" . . . "Do something today that your future self will thank you for" . . . .  Is there something you always wanted to do?  .... Something that will benefit you & your future in the long run . . . 

How about wearing a color or something that you haven't worn . . .make a fashion statement today. . ."Live your favorite Color . .out LOUD".   Wear a splash of color today, like Pink, RED or Purple . . .sometimes adding color can change a persons mood....

Start a blog!..... take a dance class . . . start a recipe book with all your favorite receipes...take a sewing class... start a "JOURNAL"  etc...  {YOU GET THE PICTURE}  "If you want diffirent results ... you have to change your ACTIONS & do something different"
 


 
 
 
Today is a Perfect DAY to start living your DREAMS! 
 
 
 
All it takes is one step to make one change.... possibilities are limitless!
 
 
Be Blessed & have a STYLISH DAY!

Happy New Year! 2014


Hello,  Style Mavens!
 


Happy New Year!  so 2014 is here & 2013 is gone! 
 
Today is January 2, 2014 . . .and the NEW YEAR is starting off "GREAT" for me! 
I have not blogged in about 6 months "SHAME ON ME"  well lets just say.... 2013 wasn't the my BEST YEAR! yet!  but 2014 is looking pretty darn good!  I am going to BLOG 365 times in 2014 or more . .not a resolution just,
 "DOING WHAT MAKES ME HAPPY"

There will be a lot of "GREAT' things that I preparing for via "The Style DIalogues".
More blogging, more fashion, more thrifting, more styling more designing in 2014!

I am super excited & you should be too! I am excited to share my "WORLD with the "WORLD" . .. if anyone follows!  lol

2014 is a FUN, SUCCESSFUL & PROSPEROUS year!
 
January 1, 2014.... was a great day for me....please stayed posted for exciting things to come in 2014.

This year will be super exciting for US all!  I am very excited about 2014!

For me in 2014... I did not and will not make unrealistic "New Years Resolutions"
it's pretty . . . simple .... "I AM... going to do what make's me "HAPPY" .... period & a dot!

Now, this is your opportunity to re-write your story and tell it how you want it to be told.   Create the life you always imagined.... take the next 365 days to write a 365 page book about YOU.... no one can tell your story like you!  No one can live the life that you've dreamed of but YOU.   Make it a "BEST SELLER"

My suggestion start with a journal and vision board...imagine your life as if it is....

"If you Change your thoughts &  You will Change your world!   Gather your thoughts about how you imagine your future to be and make a visual display of it through the use of photos, flyers, magazine cut outs and words…




I do this every year, except for 2013 ...and I am here to tell you, because I survived it...but it was not how I planned or imagined...

I like to start each day with "I AM",   and I add these two little simple words to my "VISION BOARD" as well.

Here is an EXAMPLE of "How to create a VISION BOARD" 

 
This video was sponsored by Terra Fossil Wine’s 30 Days of Wine Madness, a heart healthy campaign. It was shot and edited by the fab Liz Nicholls
 
 
Can, I just tell you having a well balanced life, will make all the difference in how you function on a day to day basis.
 
Here are some QUOTES & AFFIRMATIONS to start your 2014 in a positive direction!
 

I always start my day off....saying "I AM THANKFUL  FOR TODAY"....
"I AM THANKFUL FOR ALL THE POSITIVE BLESSINGS THAT I HAVE TODAY!
 
 

 
 
 
 
Affirmations are proven methods of self-improvement because of their ability to rewire your brain & allow you to think positive.
 
Here are 35 affirmations:
 
1.) I am the architect of my life; I build its foundation and choose its contents.
2.) Today, I am brimming with energy and overflowing with joy.
3.) My body is healthy; my mind is brilliant; my soul is tranquil.
4.) I am superior to negative thoughts and low actions.
5.) I have been given endless talents which I begin to utilize today.
6.) I forgive those who have harmed me in my past and peacefully detach from them.
7.) A river of compassion washes away my anger and replaces it with love.
8.) I am guided in my every step by Spirit who leads me towards what I must know and do.
9.) (If you're married) My marriage is becoming stronger, deeper, and more stable each day.
10.) I possess the qualities needed to be extremely successful.
11.) (For business owners) My business is growing, expanding, and thriving.
12.) Creative energy surges through me and leads me to new and brilliant ideas.
13.) Happiness is a choice. I base my happiness on my own accomplishments and the blessings I've been given.
14.) My ability to conquer my challenges is limitless; my potential to succeed is infinite.
15.) (For those who are unemployed) I deserve to be employed and paid well for my time, efforts, and ideas. Each day, I am closer to finding the perfect job for me.
16.) I am courageous and I stand up for myself.
17.) My thoughts are filled with positivity and my life is plentiful with prosperity.
18.) Today, I abandon my old habits and take up new, more positive ones.
19.) Many people look up to me and recognize my worth; I am admired.
20.) I am blessed with an incredible family and wonderful friends.
21.) I acknowledge my own self-worth; my confidence is soaring.
22.) Everything that is happening now is happening for my ultimate good.
23.) I am a powerhouse; I am indestructible.
24.) Though these times are difficult, they are only a short phase of life.
25.) My future is an ideal projection of what I envision now.
26.) My efforts are being supported by the universe; my dreams manifest into reality before my eyes.
27.) (For those who are single) The perfect partner for me is coming into my life sooner than I expect.
28.) I radiate beauty, charm, and grace.
29.) I am conquering my illness; I am defeating it steadily each day.
30.) My obstacles are moving out of my way; my path is carved towards greatness.
31.) I wake up today with strength in my heart and clarity in my mind.
32.) My fears of tomorrow are simply melting away.
33.) I am at peace with all that has happened, is happening, and will happen.
34.) My nature is Divine; I am a spiritual being.
35.) My life is just beginning.

You can utilize any of these affirmations alone or create your own unique combination based on your personal wishes and needs. What is most important is to establish a profound communication with the universe -- so say it with conviction, say it in your own unique voice, and make it happen in the real world.

Affirming my love,

Dr. Carmen Harra
For more by Dr. Carmen Harra, click here.

For more on emotional wellness, click here.
To connect with Dr. Harra on Facebook, click here.