Reviving Ophelia

Vintage cuff bracelet available at my Etsy shop; vintage dress, belt, earrings, and headpiece from my personal collection; self-made wreath.

Happy October! As you have probably realized due to my lack of posting, my life the past few weeks has been overwhelming. Etsy and school sure are a way to keep a girl busy! 

With the change in weather, comes a change in my style perspective. I've been feeling a sudden urge to wholeheartedly embrace 1970s fashion: flowing maxi dresses, leather and fur coats, wooden beads, and tribal jewelry. Additionally, my love for otherworldly fantasy has been rekindled: anything ethereal, Goth-inspired, romantic grunge, and I'm all set.

In the spring of 2011, I had the sudden notion to take an interest in 1940s-1950s pinup modeling. Although I can stand back and admire those who emulate such looks themselves, I've come to realize that that time period just isn't for me. Mid-century fashion is so iconic that it's hard not to go for a head-to-toe pinup look, which (for me personally) stifles my artistic creativity and limits outfit possibilities. Although I do love a classic 1950s ensemble every once in a while, my heart typically beats faster to the tune of a burnout velvet kimono, killer statement jewelry, and Renaissance-inspired Gunne Sax dresses.  

Another element that has factored into my recent style evolution is my own age and personal growth. I'm still a teenager, but my days as that bubbly little college student who loved floral rompers and hot pink tights are long gone and out the window. Don't get me wrong, I'm not going to turn into one of those snobby "elitists" who refuse to wear anything but black! I still love color, just in more tasteful doses and proportions. 

What you wear also determines how you will be viewed by others. As I reach the threshold of my 20th birthday this winter, what I need is respect, not patronization. Back in my floral romper days, I get the feeling that a lot of people thought I was "cute". At the time, I thought that was great, but I've come to realize that I'd like to project and promote a slightly more mature version of myself. A bright floral mini dress complete with neon tights, haphazard jewelry, and a zany hat evokes the image of "cute and creative teenager". A floor length maxi dress with a few well-chosen accessories and flowing hair begs the title of "mysterious powerful bohemian witch", garnering artistic admiration as well as awe and respect.

These Ophelia-inspired photos were taken quite some time ago this past summer, but I think they fit in very well with my style transition. I hope you enjoy watching my change in fashion as much as I will enjoy doing it myself. Stay tuned for more updates, and soak in all the beauty of fall, most magical time of the year!

Mwah! Mwah!
~Hope Adela

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Photos by William Haubert as Red Stockman Photography.