Year in Review: Goodbye 2020, Hello 2021!

We made it, everyone, 2020 is over and done, and here's to another trip around the sun!

To say that the last year was difficult would be an understatement.  Uncertainty is uncomfortable, frustrating, and even frightening; but our continued hopes, dreams, and the possibilities in the new year ahead are unstoppable! 

There is no magic wand to free us from these trying times, (believe me, I'd be the first to wave one if I could), and, unfortunately, the turn of a calendar page may have little immediate effect on the state of the current pandemic.  I write this not to discourage, but to encourage us to reflect - to admit to deep disappointment, feel sadness, and grieve - and to celebrate the victories, both big and small.  More important than ever, in the upcoming year, let's set reasonable expectations, and be kind to ourselves and to others.  My mantra for 2021: expect nothing, appreciate everything.  

Speaking of appreciation, I'm so grateful for the continued encouragement of my sewing, weaving, education, and living history adventures.  To my friends, family, patrons, and all of you lovely followers on this blog, on the Facebook page, and on Instagram - thank you!  It's only because of your generous support that I'm able to create this content, which brings me and, hopefully, others so much joy.  

So to kick off the blogging for 2021, here's a look at last year's favorite memories:

Year in Review: 2020 Highlights

An interview with the National Geographic! 

Find the full article, here: "Historic Interpreters Share Their Sides of the Story"

This was an opportunity of a lifetime, and the greatest honor to be included with so many powerful voices, including Cheyney McKnight of Not Your Momma's History.  To tell the story - of their history, our history, American history - and to be a part of a more diverse and inclusive future at living history sites and museums.  Many thanks to the journalists, Jennifer Barger and Heather Greenwood Davis, for their important work, and to my friend, Cheyney, for leading the path forward.  

If you haven't already, read the article, here: "Historic Interpreters Share Their Sides of the Story" 

Speaking at Costume On 2: Tailored, an international online conference!

The biannual, international online conference, Costume On, connects costumers and historical fashion enthusiasts from all over the world for a weekend of virtually-hosted seminars and workshops.  (Make sure to visit their website at: 1886location.com for upcoming conferences, master classes throughout the year, historical patterns, and more!)

During the Fall 2020 conference, I had the great privilege and pleasure of teaching two classes!  I wrote a blog post about those classes, here: Online Conference - Costume On 2: Tailored.   The first lecture presented Chinese-American history through the lens of the Civil War, giving background on early Chinese immigration, stories from both sides of the war, and post-war discrimination and lasting legacy.  In fact, through this conference, thanks to several steps of connections, I was able to correspond with a long-time hero of mine, Irving Moy, author of An American Journey, living historian, and expert on Chinese-American participation in the Civil War.  We've since kept in touch, and his continued encouragement and the wealth of information he's shared are truly invaluable. 

The second lecture was on Orientalism, defined by centuries of complex, cross-cultural borrowing, imitation, and appropriation, with a particular emphasis on the textiles, garments, and accessories that have shaped menswear from the late-16th through 19th centuries.  I've become enamored with this extensive area of dress history, and it has endless possibilities for presentations (so keep an eye out for more on this subject to come in 2021...)

I learned so much, personally and professionally, about presenting through this debut into (online) public speaking, and I'm so grateful to Chantal Filson, the founder and dean of the conference, for the opportunity - thank you! 

Launching a Patreon!

This was somewhat of a surprise endeavor this year, and never would have been possible without the support of my good friend, social media guru, and personal champion, Kristen.  Launched during the summer quarantine, it's been amazing to connect with an online costuming community through zoom meetings, our monthly, "sip-and-sew" live chants, and other virtual events. 

On Patreon, several membership levels or tiers allow patrons to directly assist individual artists and makers in their creative endeavors.  In exchange, patrons unlock exclusive contents, live chats, personalized gifts, and more, funding the hopes and dreams of many creators, including yours truly! 

In fact, I have four, lovely patrons to thank today!  Their support and belief in me actively transforms current and future projects from dreams to reality.  And I look forward to developing my Patreon throughout this upcoming year, and beyond! 

Completing my college thesis & dress project!

A model of a period-correct costume for a historical interpreter.

After three semesters of research, writing, and sewing (and additional complications during the pandemic), my senior thesis - Wearing History: The Value in Costuming Historical Interpreters at Living History Sites & Museums - and the accompanying dress project (depicted above) are finished!  

In total, I wrote a 46-page research paper, exploring the potential in adequately-funded, period-accurate costuming programs for improving visitor engagement, staff performance, and institutional credibility and outreach.  For the project component, I assembled a model of a period-correct costume for a historical interpreter, constructing everything from the undergarments, to the day dress, accessories, and outerwear.  I also composed a series of appendixes to document the construction process, quantify the costs, and justify each design choice with descriptions from the chosen time period.  All in all, handing the massive project in was a relief, and I'd love to publish it in some form in the future.  

I graduated summa cum laude! 

It's official, I hold a Bachelor's of Integrated Studies (with two minors) from Kent State University!

Somehow I managed to survive art school - with double concentrations in costume construction and textile arts.  (The 4.0, however, comes at the cost of three years without sleep...there was the weekly all-nighter or two, late nights and weekends in the studios, and finals weeks we will never speak of again, #stilltramatized).  Two decades as a career student are over, and onto the next chapter...living history museums here I come!

Social Media Milestones

I try not to get caught up with the numbers game, but I did want to mention the social media milestones of 2020:

• Over on Instagram @youngsewphisticate, we reached an incredible 3000+ followers, and, per the tradition, here's our Top Nine:

• Our Facebook page broke 500+ "likes" and followers.  
• On the blog, I managed to write 18 blog posts, which, though modest in number, is up from the previous year...we also rebranded as The Sewphisticate, a name which better reflects my growth not only as a seamstress, but as a textile artist, educator and living historian.

What will 2021 bring?

Since there's no telling when in-person events may resume, I'd like to draw your attention to the fabulous Virtual Regency Retreat, hosted by the Historic Joseph Teel House!  (Registration is open until January 28th, with the virtual retreat running January 29th through the 31st)  According to their website, the event will feature an entire weekend of guest speakers, performances, and other activities, including a virtual fashion show, which I have the honor of being a participant:

Virtual fashion show at the Joseph Teel House - 
Visit their website to see all of the participants!

I'm also looking forward to more public speaking engagements in the future (plans are already in the works!), as well as continuing to build and maintain an online presence in the New Year.  While I feel some uncertainty, there's also excitement for what's to come next...

Cheers 2021, and may we make every minute count!

Culture Not Costume: A Practical Guide to Avoiding Cultural Appropriation

The online costuming conference last weekend, Costume On 2: Tailored, was a great success, and to all of those who attended my lectures - thank you!  I learned just as much about presenting as I hope participants did from the talks, and I look forward to future opportunities to share that research again!  

Before I file my notes away, I did want to share what ended up being part of the conclusion of my second session, which discussed Orientalism in all of its complexities - including both historical and modern applications to fashion, textiles, and accessories.  The last few slides focused on defining appreciation and appropriation, and I offered some guidelines or advice for applying culturally sensitive practices to our modern, historical costuming.  However, I don't feel that one slide at the end really gave enough attention to this important topic, so I thought I'd follow up today with a blog post.  This is intended as a practical guide for avoiding cultural appropriation in costuming, and while it's by no means all-inclusive, it offers a start.  So, without further ado, let's dive in:

First, let's discuss: what is appropriation?  The online Oxford English dictionary provides the following definition, stating that appropriation is the "action of taking something for one's own use, typically without the owner's permission."  So when applied to culture, it is the intentional (or sometimes unintentional) copying of another culture's intellectual or material property.  This includes, but is not limited to a culture's specific customs, traditions, or forms of expression, be it through music and dance, language, food, and, of course, clothing.  Appropriation differs from "cultural borrowing" in that it is done without the permission of that culture, and often without respect or understanding for the significance of what is being taken.  This is especially harmful when the community that is the source is a minority group that has been oppressed or exploited by the more dominant society, who profits either politically, economically, or socially from the taking.  

So when avoiding appropriation in own costuming, as a community, we must be more aware when we culturally-cross dress.  Cultural awareness goes beyond simply avoiding using sacred or highly specific, traditional motifs, as we must consider the interests of the culture whose clothing or materials or being used.  These actions fall under what is described as cultural appreciation.  Cultural appreciation is characterized by having a genuine and authentic interest in another culture - by listening to the native perspective, learning about their history, and then understanding the significance of the object within its original context.  Unlike appropriation, appreciation is an active exchange that is mutually beneficial, whether that includes a monetary exchange or just a better understanding on both sides.  

I LOVE this illustration - culture is NOT a costume! 
(Image source: The Odyssey)

Cultural borrowing in itself is not problematic, in fact, it's a wonderful, beautiful thing!  We just need to keep the impact of our actions in mind as we make these transactions.  This requires taking a moment to reflect on the intention - why we are borrowing and for what purpose - and making sure that the end result honors the culture, its people, and their objects in the context they were intended to be used and appreciated.  So, how do we do this - or what are some immediate, practical tips for avoiding cultural appropriation?  These, of course, are going to differ person to person, and situation to situation, but here is my advice and where I would start:

Step number one: show genuine interest in the culture as a whole.  

Intention is everything.  Consider your motivations before borrowing - is this for attention or superficial reasons (ex: "likes" on an Instagram photo or just because it looks "cool" or "exotic")?  Or is there a deeper, authentic interest in participating in another culture's traditions?

Simply being friends with someone from another culture or just enjoying the look of something different from your norm, doesn't give you permission to tokenize or appropriate.  If you truly want to partake in another culture's dress, don't cherry-pick elements or modify tradition to suit an arbitrary aesthetic, but rather be interested in and celebrate the culture as a whole.  

Step number two: do your research! 

When planning a costume, there's a lot of effort that goes into developing the character, designing the outfit, and sourcing all of the materials - and that's all before the actual making process!  So when designing a costume with cross-cultural elements, it's equally, if not more important to do your research!  This is not just a superficial google search, but really do a deep dive so you have a full understanding of the cultural and historical significance of an object or material you wish to use - as well as the appropriate context for its use.  

Make sure to give the appropriate credit too.  This includes disclosing and discussing your sources for inspiration, both the historical and the cultural.  Costumers often provide a character reference when cosplaying, or the fashion plate or extant garment that inspired their historical dress - make sure to do the same when there's cultural background required. 

Step number three: be an empathetic listener.  

Consider the sources of your research - did you directly consult with people from the culture to learn about their feelings and perspectives on the object you wish to use?  Cultural exchange is a two way street, and borrowing quickly becomes appropriation, exploitation, and oppression when the wishes of the source culture are excluded from conversation, and worse ignored or directly violated.  Have an open and honest conversation with willing participants.  And if you are the borrower, be an active listener and engaged learner, not a dismissive informer.  

Also, support native artisans and makers whenever possible.  The expression money talks applies here - for instance, instead of buying "tribal-inspired" earrings from just anyone, amplify the voices of Native American and indigenous peoples by recognizing their unique, cultural identities and purchasing directly from a Navajo artist.  The result is two-fold - you're supporting a rich, crafting tradition that's been exploited by the "fashion" industry, and you're connecting with a culture, rather than a faceless corporation making a profit off of mass-produced rip-offs.  

Step number four: make conscious and intentional decisions. 

You've done your research, you've consulted with people from the culture, and now it's time to apply your findings.  Be deliberate in your choices, think about the message your costume is sending - are you honoring a culture or simply imitating it?  

Obviously, avoid perpetuating the stereotypes of a culture.  Make sure, again, you are borrowing for the right reasons.  None of which should be to make money or just for a "cool" photo to post online - but as an opportunity to learn about, interact with, and ultimately experience another culture.  

Step number five: err on the side of caution.  

There is a thin line between appreciation and appropriation, but sometimes there's grey area or matters that will differ within personal or cultural interpretations.  We have to be comfortable with the uncomfortable, and realize that there may not be a definitive answer.  Above all, use your common sense.  If you're question whether something is more appropriative than appreciative, it's best to err on the side of caution.  And if your gut feeling is ever "no," just don't do it! 

Step number six: be willing to acknowledge & learn from mistakes.

All actions have consequences, for better or for worse.  The boundaries of culture are neither definite, nor static, rather they are fluid, dynamic, and constantly being redefined.  Even when acting with the best of intentions, appropriation still happens - and the harm is real.  We will all make mistakes, and it's important to give yourself permission to be human and a little grace. 

The best response is a sincere apology.  Acknowledge what went wrong, and don't continue to insist that you were appreciating if you've been told you're actually appropriating.  Perhaps review steps one through three of this guide - and, most importantly, learn from the mistake so it doesn't happen again.  

And with that, I think I’ll open it up to any questions and further discussion!  How do you practice cultural appreciation, and what steps do you take to avoid appropriation in your own costuming?  Which of the steps in this guide stood out to you most, and what advice would you add?  

Let me know in the comments below - thanks for reading, and special thanks to our patrons who make content like this possible! 

Online Conference - Costume On 2: Tailored

It is with the greatest pleasure that I can now announce I will be speaking at Costume On 2: Tailored, an online conference for historical costuming! 

For more information, please visit their website: 1886location.com
Also find the Facebook page: Costume On

Costume On was created with the quarantine in mind, connecting costumers from all over the world for a weekend of online seminars and workshops.  With topics spanning fashion history and techniques from the 17th through the 20th centuries (and beyond), there is sure to be a class for everyone.  Following the success of their first conference, which was held back in the Spring, this upcoming, Fall conference - Costume On 2: Tailored - is scheduled for Saturday, September 19th and Sunday the 20th, 2020.  

As the name suggests, the theme of this second Costume On conference is "Tailored," with an emphasis on historical menswear and tailoring.  Conquer fitting, patterning, and drafting techniques, create period gifts for the men (or women) in your circles, and learn about the lives of every-day and extraordinary men who shaped history - all from the comforts of your own home!  Classes are all taught live, and sign up is à la carte.  You choose which lectures and workshops you'd like to attend, and pay the teacher per session.  Whether you take one class, two, or more - as the website reads, you're attendance directly supports independent artists!

There's an incredible variety of offerings, so please see the website for the full listing and schedule for classes, here: Costume On 2: Tailored - List of Classes.  Some sessions run concurrently, so keep that in mind as you register.

Here's a snap shot of the list from their website:

Register for classes, here: Costume On 2: Tailored - List of Classes

And, as I announced above, I will be teaching two classes!  I'm so excited to be making my debut into public speaking, and thank the Costume On organizers for the opportunity to present on the following topics related to menswear:

If the Coat Fits: Chinese Soldiers in the American Civil War

Session time: Saturday, September 19, 2020 at 11am EST.

This presentation has been several years in the making, and I'm thrilled to have the chance to combine new research on the early Chinese-American experience with updated information on Civil War participation.  Since writing a guest blog post and article on the topic for the Genesee Country Village & Museum in 2017, interest in the topic has only grown.  Researchers in the field have continued making new discoveries, fueling my own desires to tell the untold stories, and in doing so, honoring my Chinese and American heritages. 

At this Costume On 2, you'll have the chance to hear this unique narrative, some for the very first time, and to reflect on the stories within your own history and experience that deserve to be remembered.

Class Description:  

If the coat fits, wear it – and the Chinese men who volunteered to serve in the Civil War did, fighting for a country that would later discriminate, exploit, exclude, and all but forget their remarkable contributions to the culture and creation of the United States.  This presentation explores the Chinese-American experience, and tells the stories of individuals from both sides of the war, on land and at sea.

Period attitudes and depictions will be referenced, and may contrast with the successful people they were then, and continue to be today.  The goal is two-fold: to highlight an untold history, and to inspire participants to draw from personal experience and other, unique perspectives when developing costumed impressions for historical reenactments and events.

This is a 90-minute lecture with a shared slide presentation.  Time will be set aside for further questions and discussion at the end.  Registration remains OPEN until September 18, 2020.

Orientalism: Western Taste for Eastern Fashion

Session time: Sunday, September 20, 2020 at 6pm EST.

Born of an interest in Chinoiserie and love of complicated dramas - in this case, the complexities of cultural exchange in fashion and decorative arts, entwined with centuries of imperialism, politics, economics, and copy-cats - this talk presents my latest research horizons.  "Orientalism" is only an introduction to the topic, offering an in-depth overview of the centuries of assimilation and appropriation through which menswear, as we in the Western world are familiar, originated:

Class Description: 

From Indian chintz prints and banyans, to Chinese silks and brisé fans, and Turkish smoking jackets complete with tasseled caps, the fashions of the East have enchanted the West for centuries.  This presentation chronicles the complex, cross-cultural borrowing and imitation that is “Orientalism,” with an emphasis on the textiles, garments, and accessories that have shaped menswear from the late-16th through 19th centuries.

Select examples of historic portraiture, fashion plates, and extant garments from museum collections will accompany the discussion, and help the modern costumer navigate the divide between cultural appreciation and appropriation.

This is a 90-minute lecture with a shared slide presentation and time set aside for further questions and discussion at the end.  Registration will remain OPEN until September 19, 2020.  

Did something catch your eye?  I sure hope you'll consider signing up for a class or two during Costume On 2: Tailored!  With such a variety of offerings - live lectures, hands-on workshops, and behind-the-scenes tours of museums - there's something for everyone!

Alright, it's back to research for me...see you in two weeks!