Advanced Teen Camp: Student Highlights
Written By Hannah Loewe
This past June, Stitchworks hosted the Summer Fashion Program, a multi-day workshop educating teens on sewing and the fashion industry. The program was split into two sessions–a three day course for beginners, and a five day course for advanced students. The latter gave a group of four teens the opportunity to complete two guided projects and a third of their choice, culminating in a fashion shoot where they modeled their original designs.
For some of the students, fashion has been a passion for as long as they can remember. Cypher, age 17, dressed up with friends as a kid and now finds “a lot of expression” through clothes and sewing. Addison, age 15, was inspired by watching her mother make clothes at age 10.
COVID was also a catalyst for many of the students to begin sewing. This is the case for Kalyn, age 17, who traces her love of fashion back to drawing outfits as a kid. Christopher, also 17, has been sewing for 2 years, and was drawn to fashion as a vehicle to express himself. He is particularly inspired by streetwear trends, which is evident in his independent project, a pair of baggy pants with a split blue and gray color scheme.
Many of the students cite the guided bucket hat project as one of their favorite parts of the program, and also show lots of enthusiasm for their independent projects. Addison chose to create a vest with a rainbow Pink Floyd print, and used a solid blue fabric for the inside. Kalyn’s button down, short-sleeve shirt had orange, cream, and green stripes, with similarly colored floral buttons. Cypher sewed a white vest with a curved hem, reminiscent of a corset-style.
The passion these students have for sewing and fashion is evident in the creativity exhibited in their independent projects. Approaching college age, some are even starting to consider a career in the field. Although Indianapolis is not a city traditionally known for its fashion opportunities, Stitchworks has filled this important role, offering education and guidance for teens who have the drive and eagerness to make it in the industry.
