History inspires clothing
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There’s nothing new about mixing the old with the new, but fashion designer Krista Reich takes it back a step.
Reaching back to medieval times is where some of the inspiration comes for her modern clothing line.
Born in Vancouver, but now living with her artist husband, Neil Pinkett, in the Forest Grove area, Reich says she’s had a fascination with fashion and with history for most of her life.
Childhood doodles of fairy tale princesses eventually made their way to the pattern table, and then, to gorgeous wearable gowns.
A formal education in both fashion design and art history helped cultivate her interest, as did several years spent travelling in England and Scotland.
Her travels allowed Reich to research her own family history, which has roots in the British Isles, and also helped satisfy her love of old architecture, churches and museums.
Her experiences help to fuel the idea mill for the historic clothing and historically inspired modern-wear that keeps her sewing machine busy.
“I’m sewing every day. I do lots of fairs, festivals and events, Highland games and renaissance fairs,” says Reich. “I’m also heavily inspired by fantasy film.
“Lord of the Rings is a big one for me. Getting away from reality is my reality, but at the same time, I do proper costuming and fashion.”
While her designs have been used as costuming, they have also had their practical purposes as wedding gowns, prom dresses, Highland dress shirts for men and many cloaks.
One of her biggest projects, she says, was a highly detailed Italian Elizabethan formal gown. The custom order took a good part of one winter season to complete.
Much of her work goes into stock, which travels with her to the various shows and to the occasional fashion show.
On Oct. 24, Reich will be staging one of her historical clothing fashion shows at the Chris Harris Gallery, located on Back Valley Road at 105 Mile.
Admission is $12 and it includes refreshments. Tickets can be purchased in advance at fascination street and at the gallery and, if available, at the door. Seating is at 7 p.m. and the show starts at 7:30.
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