Whilst browsing the weekend paper, I spot an outstanding frock recently worn by the controversial American performer and recording artist. A patchwork leather dress, in blocks of red, black and silver. It is a beautiful frock, modest in length with a flattering neckline. The dress is by Proenza Schouler, a New York based womenswear and accessories brand founded in 2002.
:: Seen on Glamour ::
Although this particular dress is not a recycled piece, it could be well be an inspiration to make a garment using bits and pieces of leftover or unwanted leather. For vegan's, or those that do not like the thought of working with or wearing real leather, artificial leather could be used as an alternative.
I've personally never tried sewing with leather, although according to You SEW Girl, you can use an ordinary domestic sewing machine, you just need to make sure you have the appropriate leather sewing machine needles to use.
Co-incidentally, I found a second hand clutch bag in an Op Shop recently for a bargain price of $2. The bag is made from different pieces of leather and shiny artificial leather. With the right sewing equipment, I'm sure this would be easy to replicate?
:: Leather patchwork clutch $2 Family Life Op Shop ::
Searching for more patchwork leather fashion ideas, I find the following:
:: Martina Spetlova Women's Patchwork Leather Jacket ::
Martina Spetlova is known for using sustainable fish leather in her designs in a collaboration with Icelandic company Atlantic Leather.
:: 1970’s Patchwork Leather Jacket with Roses seen here ::
:: 80's Leather Patchwork Skirt from ReRunRoom ::
:: 70's Suede Patchwork Skirt from EcologieLoveVintage ::
:: 70's Patchwork Leather / Suede Hot Pants from nanometer ::
Readers, what are your thoughts on wearing patchwork leather (or patchwork artificial leather) clothing, do you like the look of it?
Are there any stitchers reading this blog post that have worked with leather before, and if so, do you find it an easy or difficult material to work with?

5 comments:
The 70's suede skirt is heaven! I'd wear that right now, even in 90 degrees : > Great round-up, Erica.
This is an interesting 'genre' of clothing that is making a comeback. I had a vest like this in collage (70's) and my Mom had a skirt like these in her collage days,(40'). I love when trends come around again.
Although I shouldn't, I love leather. I once bought a gorgeous green leather skirt with a mock croc detail at a second hand store, but however I tried, it really just didn't fit right, so I turned it into a baby bag (which I have since passed on). I used a leather needle and sewing it was not problem at all. It was lovely soft leather though....
love the 70s suede patchwork skirt! Fish leather? hmm, not so much .... just the thought of dried fish :(
I love Miley's dress, she looks amazing. And I wouldv'e paired it with black shoes, but her white ones are just perfect. A fabulous inspiration, and great blog Erica! Thanks, Alison
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