katherinesummer.etsy.com

Elegant gowns, reconstructed vintage beaded sweaters, knitting patterns, couture belly dance costumes, and my projects du jour are what you'll find here. Thanks for stopping by!



My signature style combines love of color, graceful composition, and impeccable construction for a whimsical yet elegant gypsy aesthetic.

I scour flea-markets and thrift stores for vintage beaded sweaters, which I then upcycle into tunics, boleros, kimono, and dresses. Because the beading is different on each sweater, no two are ever the same. They're like puzzles--each one wants to be something else--I just have to figure out what. I never know what they're going to look like when I begin, nor do I come up with a design before I cut them up. I enjoy seeing what emerges rather than trying to force them into a form.

My specialty is couture belly dance costumes. Each fully lined bedlah is covered with silk dupioni and lavishly adorned with trims and hand-beaded fringes. Precious stones, czech glass, delicate beads, and Swarovski rhinestones catch the light, accentuate your shimmies, and give extra impact to your pops and locks.


All my garments are made with love, care, and precision. Please allow 3-4 months for any custom orders, as most pieces take upwards of 40 hours to complete.



"Its hard to be a diamond in a rhinestone world."
-Dolly Parton

http://tribes.tribe.net/katherinesummer