By MIKE CHAIKEN EDITIONS EDITOR There’s something to be said for fashion that is nothing like what anyone else is wearing. And what better way to create this unique fashion than to take everyday items, and redirect them for new use as something fun to wear. That’s what Julia Sloan of Connecticut’s Brazen Betties does. Sloan, who used to own a brick and mortar boutique in Torrington that featured items created by other designers and crafters, has morphed her business so the spotlight is on herself. And the key words for her creations are re-use, repurpose, and upcycle. “I like the challenge of creating something new, unusual, and stylish from antique and vintage items,” said Sloan via an email when asked why she liked the process of repurposing objects and giving them new life as something wearable. “I really admire the workmanship and quality of old pieces and like to reinvent its intended use. I feel it’s a clever departure from using traditional materials like beads. You will see vintage keys, watch parts, drawer pulls, buttons, cabinet hardware and more upcycled into jewelry for men and women.” The basis of her work started in more traditional terms, Sloan explained. “I [...]
By MIKE CHAIKEN EDITIONS EDITOR There’s something to be said for fashion that is nothing like what anyone else is wearing. And what better way to create this unique fashion than to take everyday items, and redirect them for new use as something fun to wear. That’s what Julia Sloan of Connecticut’s Brazen Betties does. Sloan, who used to own a brick and mortar boutique in Torrington that featured items created by other designers and crafters, has morphed her business so the spotlight is on herself. And the key words for her creations are re-use, repurpose, and upcycle. “I like the challenge of creating something new, unusual, and stylish from antique and vintage items,” said Sloan via an email when asked why she liked the process of repurposing objects and giving them new life as something wearable. “I really admire the workmanship and quality of old pieces and like to reinvent its intended use. I feel it’s a clever departure from using traditional materials like beads. You will see vintage keys, watch parts, drawer pulls, buttons, cabinet hardware and more upcycled into jewelry for men and women.” The basis of her work started in more traditional terms, Sloan explained. “I [...]