Why Am I Not a Fashion Designer? And Other Quandaries

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Oh the irony of my saying my favorite contemporary designer is Dries Van Noten only to have him step down as the lead designer from his own label in the very same week! A well deserved retirement to be sure ❤ If the house wants me to guest for a season, I'm all ears...

[@janetthomas8244]

Oh no!! I hadn't heard.

[@kristajeanne572]

I hadn't heard that yet...that so sucks. That combined with that awful McQueen show have just about put the nail in the coffin for modern fashion for me. There are so few designers I give a crap about anymore and I'm having a hard time liking most designer clothes these days unless they're vintage.

[@fionafiona1146]

34:00 there is a Frensh-german fashion designer who dose the sustainability/ethical fashion at luxury prices and seams to be open to collaborate (at least for reviving runway fashion and explaining basics about materials and manufacturing), even though you have significantly different styles I'd like to see that contrast

[@casomai]

Oh he acept only fashion designer whit a PHD in MIT too, ' cause his dresses are a miracle of architecture...

[@a.guerra2139]

Forgot one thing. To you viewers: I've been sewing since I was a kid, and I'm now in my 60s. I have thousands of Big Four patterns, and have supported myself as a tailor for many years. I can sew. I have only started drafting my own patterns in the last two years. Learned how to do it from our Closet Historian. Greatest gift anyone as ever given to me. I never thought of myself as creative enough to draft a pattern, but I can do it now! What a joy.

[@CeliaCase-q6z]

I agree! So grateful to learn the basics of how to draft at pattern. I was always too intimidated to try. There's no stopping me now!

[@creepycutiecrafty]

That’s fantastic! I’ve never drafted a pattern (or really made a full garment!) but watching this channel gives so much good advice that I feel more confident about doing it in the future.

[@just_me8796]

Exactly, me too!

[@pinkkitten00]

I've been sewing for 20 years and I feel the same way, I'm lead upholsterer at a van upfitting company for a living, but I sew vintage inspired as a hobby. I now have the magical ability to make anything I want and it was given to me by TCH. Everyone should really give it a try, start at the beginning with making a basic block set of patterns. That's what I did.

[@deb.m.7458]

I waited years before I tried drafting my own clothes. Seeing the TCH videos on drafting seemed confusing. Bianca always talks us through each new video and overtime I learned it. Can do simple things like a wrap skirt or top. If I can do it, so can you.

[@Valla84]

Not popular?! 😢 Your look books are my absolute favorite! They are such a sensory feast: the music, lighting, makeup, props, outfits, styling, etc. are just perfect. I would watch any film you ever made, about anything.

[@QueenOfTheNorth65]

I agree! They are my absolute favorite.

[@damogranheart5521]

I get excited when I hear that you've made a look book! That's when I put Houdini in Kitty Jail, so he can't interrupt it! Then I fix a pot of tea, lay out some cookies, grab my notebook, and watch! And then I watch it again! And later, if the world or my health get me down, I will watch again! They brilliant! Thank you so much!🐈‍⬛📚🫖💕🐑🦌

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you! The algorithm doesn't like them, but robots be damned, I will keep making them 😂❤️

[@andrahmeda-oc7wo]

Very this!! I absolutely love those videos.

[@StephBer1]

@@TheClosetHistorian Stuff the Algorithm. Your fans await!

[@kathyjohnson2043]

I enjoyed the whole video but, to address the question: you ARE a fashion designer, and a darn good one.

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you Kathy!

[@armedvsokord]

Yep the Closet Historian label is a very good one.

[@jessicaneal8553]

I completely agree. Once I do my blocks, I have access to your whole design line in a step by step process and I can make it in the fabrics that I want to.

[@FulcrEm]

I came for the vintage, I stayed for the Morticia styled by Mugler, McQueen, and Westwood vibes. 💚💚 Thank you for being such a great teacher.

[@TheClosetHistorian]

I am not worthy! Thank you! 🖤

[@Gandellion]

I look forward to the dark haunted library of sequins

[@Frederikmarkusse]

It might be strange to hear from a stranger, but I'm really proud of you for finding and adjusting your path in life and in your style. And speaking on that journey with such honesty and eloquence. You're a rare gem.

[@kathyjohnson2043]

Agree

[@suzannewch7202]

Totally agree!

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you! ❤️

[@CherriesJubilee]

You are not beholden to a former version of “you”. That is so wise. I don’t know another author who is also a great teacher and fashion designer. MY former self could not have conceived of such a thing. You are literally unique. That has been so inspiring to me, who has just entered the last third of my life.

[@virginiacardinal9563]

I am so glad that she said that. I definitely had moments in that mindset recently.

[@chaeburger]

If your look books have zero fans, then I am dead.

[@TheClosetHistorian]

🤣 I shall hope this never occurs! 💜

[@VioletR7236]

I enjoyed this. It's disappointing to learn the look books don't do well. I love them thoroughly and look forward to them.

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you Violet! They do okay, but I spend too much on them, so they certainly never do well enough to earn back their keep, not by a long shot! 😂 Of my stuff a beading video is far more likely to go "viral" for some reason, and would be far easier for me to make ha!

[@VioletR7236]

@TheClosetHistorian I completely understand. I'm guilty of the same in some of my endeavors. I put huge amounts of time and money into projects, knowing full well I won't make it back. But when you're passionate about something, the reward we get outweighs the cost. Have to love us creatives! 😅💕

[@kathyjohnson2043]

I can certainly relate: I compose and arrange music for young (student) string orchestra and some pieces only get played by one school, some never get played, but I find the combination of creativity and craft needed very rewarding.

[@QueenOfTheNorth65]

I agree!

[@just_me8796]

You made the right choice for your career, this content isn't just great, fun, educational and entertaining, but a legacy that will live forever. I'm an old lady, and I lost a lot of weight a couple of years ago. Because I've been a patreon member of yours for years, mostly at first because I just enjoyed what you do, I have found I was able to sew a new wardrobe for myself instead of buying junk. And I've been using all the fabrics I've collected over a lifetime and am actually finally putting it to work. I credit you for giving me a lot of confidence to finally cut into those fabrics, fit patterns to myself when using a pattern, modifying patterns. I know you didn't do those types of lessons, but it all builds up to confidence where i ended up feeling like I can do anything :D Yes, an excellent career choice! I'm sure I'm not the only one you successfully taught :D

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you!! And good work on the wardrobe building ✨🪡

[@just_me8796]

large part due to your lessons!@@TheClosetHistorian

[@MariaFrancesca]

It's not really fair to expect a creative person to always stick to one style. I like that you vary things in this channel. Some things will line up with my own tastes more than others (I'm gothically inclined and weak for the Victorian) but that's not mainly why I watch people create, but also to see new things and appreciate a wider spectrum of styles. No matter the style, you make everything look so damn cool!

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you Maria! My style interests swing around each season, but they always come back around to each sub genre I love in time 😂

[@marathorne6821]

I think 12 year old Bianca could not have begun to understand how profoundly inspirational, beautiful and talented 32 year old Bianca would be. We don't know anything at 12, although we think we know everything... 🙄 Never forget or underestimate how awesome you are. The house will come, and it will have been worth waiting for. Life's a marathon, not a sprint. Be happy, be proud, be yourself ❤

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you Mara!! 💜

[@grizeldamayhem]

There is nothing I love more than hearing an artist talk about how her life has come together around her work. Thanks so much for sharing this, Bianca!

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you!! 💜

[@anieth]

Wow, I'd think your look books would be very popular! KZbin is very funny that way. I am also allergic to everything, and gave up on makeup long ago. I went from being a costume designer for stage to working on the Sunset Strip sewing piece work. Dresses and etc. It was awful. I was so glad to get a job in a bookstore. I still make costumes for people, but it's the design and implementation of the project that is fun for me, too. I love the fact that you are willing to dance on the border of retro-futurism. I still wear stuff I wore as a teen, but now that I'm "old" (64) I can get away with dressing eccentric without getting attacked. LA was bad, I got attacked several times for wearing "weird" stuff. For me, it's the voice of my tiger mother. She told me that if I had not become an author by the time I was eighteen, I was a failure. She kept on me for most of my life for being a failure, but when her own career as an author tanked, she apologized, realizing that it was not me, but the luck of the market. Now I have my own publishing company with over 15 books out there, all of them illustrated or graphic novels. I also sell and make about 100 outfits a year, and I'm a successful businesswoman with my own office and my own house. But she still tells me that I'm a failure. That one is hard to get out of your head.

[@kckazcoll1]

I'm also in my 60s (in Australia) and sometimes get judgmental looks when I wear bold colours or anything slightly costumey/themed. Looking forward to the day I will just be seen as eccentric, too :)

[@suzannewch7202]

Also in my 60s…. I refuse to be a beige dresser….was stuck in dark blue airline uniforms for far too long, so now I embrace bright pinks, greens, teals! I love the comfy baggy clothes! I have been dressing to please myself for a few years now and LOVE that! Embrace your eccentricity sisters!

[@r-anthro]

I’m sorry that you don’t make much $$$ from KZbin, so THANK YOU for putting yourself on here for people like me who won’t join Patreon any time soon ❤

[@TheClosetHistorian]

I could do better if I did more ads and sponsorships, but nobody wants to watch that 😂❤

[@janicecuroso1042]

I've been watching you for years. I loved your 40s, 50s clothing, and admit I'm not a fan of your present choices. Having said that, I still watch because I like you! I hope you get your house, and you become a published author. I'll keep watching. You are still young so you have time to accomplish all your goals. I was in my 50s before I was living the life I wanted.😊

[@just_me8796]

You know, I'm more boho style, but I find Bianca so much fun to watch. It's not always what the final result is, as much as seeing how she does it. But heck, I actually also love the style and the costumes and ... yah, the complexity of her sci-fi designs :D

[@artistinahammock3885]

oh my god I have never heard a person imitate a cat trilling so well, that made me smile!!

[@TheClosetHistorian]

He rolls his "R's" 😅✨

[@vicki9298]

Your look books are not wildly popular???? WHAT???? YOUR LOOKBOOKS ARE A.M.A.Z.I.N G Iam not kidding They are phenomenal 😍

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you Vicki!

[@MsAngieNightmare]

I would love a video about the evolution of your personal style. As a long-term vintage style enthusiast, I love it when folks make it their own!

[@valeriewade3688]

Instead of designing and marketing patterns, you are freeing up your followers so that they can design their own patterns. Since watching your channel, i find myself trawling Pinterest, looking at vintage styles, watching period series on TV as well as looking at the line drawings on commercial patterns. I cannot draw but I can sketch out an idea from my research. Then I use my bodice / skirt block to copy the garment i want. You have made me into a designer and I look forward to each new addition to your channel. Thank you

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you Valerie! I'm so glad to hear you've got the designers eye activated and are making fun stuff!

[@charlenasutherland]

I like all the variety of the things you produce. I like the fashion shows, the sets you create, the sewing, the beading and all the things you do. I like your style of narrating that you provide on your clips. It is nice that you share a piece of your world with us. I don't always like every creation but I love your designs. I am so impressed with your creativity. I'm 74 years old and learned to sew in High School. My teacher would have had a fit over many of your methods and I was often made the example in the class of what NOT to do which was extremely embarrassing. But let me say, it was obvious that she made all of her own clothes and I know that the goal of home sewing is to make something that is not obviously homemade. Your creations are always so well tailored and beautifully done.

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you Charlena!

[@sofiavalenzuela9782]

You are a very gentle person in many ways, generous, kind.You are special.

[@kirsten4211]

I would LOVE a style evolution video! You have so much of your past style documented in blog posts and past videos, and it would be interesting to hear you talk about the timeline, influences, etc.

[@CS-lk2ys]

You have been a major inspiration to me in sewing and an amazing role model in dressing for yourself. Looking forward to seeing how your style continues to evolve 💜

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you! There are even more coats and wintry things in my future I fear, as I soon(ish) move to the frigid northeast 😂❄

[@Myssmynx]

You are one hell of an inspiration to so many people, myself included. At 43 I finally decided that I was tired of conforming to expected styles, especially after my body started changing with the pandemic & peri-menopause. So I am full leaning into bog witch vibes & watching your videos has given me the confidence to make my own clothing from a block instead of a commercial pattern. Scary jump, even though I have been sewing for 30 plus years, so thank you thank you thank you for making it accessible & fun.

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you! I love a commitment to theme, the world needs more bog witches for sure!

[@alisonhynd8828]

How do the Look Books not make everyone happy?! They’re brilliant. Truly.

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you Alison!

[@emisformaker]

Who doesn't like the lookbooks? They're so good!

[@suzannewch7202]

Bianca, this was so generous of you to so openly and honestly answer (sometimes intrusive, I think) questions. As to sharing space with your cats in your office space: I think the office would have to be totally separate from your sewing / beading room. Wouldn’t sliding pocket doors be fantastic between the two rooms?!

[@regalrose3365]

I especially identify with having a wardrobe of the life I want to have, but I'm trying to incorporate it into my daily life 😂❤

[@sunnybunny3803]

It’s so sad to me that your futuristic and cyberpunk stuff doesn’t do as well. One of the reasons I love your videos is because of how unique and interesting your style is.

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you! People want traditional noir, not sci-fi neo noir, but I venture the lands between 😅✨

[@irenevalbuena6417]

I still don’t understand why your look books are not more popular, I freaking live for them, I still go back and watch the Star Wars one ❤

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you!! That first Star Wars set looks so "clean" to me, I wish I had weathered it a lot more 🤣

[@irenevalbuena6417]

@@TheClosetHistorianoh no, I feel everything was perfect ❤

[@donnacoleman4624]

I enjoyed this Q&A immensely. I'm 63 and love love love your style and designs. I've learned so much from u and my creative self has been revived. I had stopped sewing for years and kinda fell into the blah fashions available. No more, I am learning your drafting techniques and making myself clothes that I love. You are spreading good karma into the world and I believe you will be greatly rewarded. Many good wishes to u and thank u!!

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you Donna!!

[@vincentbriggs1780]

I'll never understand why your lookbooks don't get more views, they're SO GOOD. I like to go back and rewatch them sometimes, it helps put me in more of an Inspired to Make Stuff sort of mood. Speaking of which, do you think you'll ever do more with the narration in the beginning part? I do so love the ones with the gay little stories in them!

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you Vincent! Maybe one day, but right now I'm kinda keeping my fiction/narrative brain for writing and my fashion brain for fashion 😅🧵

[@dacrayzblaze1]

When you say that your 16 year old self would be disappointed but you're happy with where you're currently at ... I relate so hard. My current life is so different than what I pictured when I was younger but I am in such a good place.

[@loritravis2734]

You taught me to draft and design my own clothing! What a gift! Thank you!

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you Lori!

[@lindabardes9974]

There is a designer, Diane Ericson, who makes patterns for one of the main pattern company. I mention her because she makes individual patterns under her name she sells on her site, that she intends the maker to add to, subtract from, or adjust for personal preference. They are expensive and I have bought some. The situation as I see it, based on your sharing of your belief that you weren’t worthy of wearing clothes you actually wanted, is at heart for me. I’ve spent a lot on her patterns only to look at them and think that I’m too fat to dress so creatively. All it would take is to make adjustments to the pattern! Thanks for that ah ha moment!❤️

[@kelessa]

Two things: 1. The lookbooks are always so inspiring, I love them! 2. Being beholden to your younger self is such a struggle, I fully understand. The thing I always have to remind myself is that younger me didn't know what was coming, and I like to believe she'd have compassion for how I handle the struggles she didn't see coming, even when current me struggles to do so.

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you Kelessa!

[@sarar4901]

I love the lookbooks! Impeccable vibes.

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you!!

[@judithdutton4631]

I was involved in amateur theatre, but I couldn’t act, because, as a nurse on shift work, I couldn’t arrange it around my shifts. That was when I discovered that the backstage was way more interesting, and too me, more exciting. Costuming was right up my alley. Such fun.

[@linr8260]

I love the lookbooks! But I imagine they're attracting mostly regular viewers rather than casual scrollers. I hope you have enough fun making them for it to still be worth it. Also yeah I think we need to give ourselves a pat on the back for surviving the last 15 years as millenials, our teenage selves were planning for a very different world. The you of now is not only making *stunning* designs but also giving tons of people inspiration for their own clothes and that's something to be proud of.

[@ungratefulbat2621]

So beautiful how you answered the question about the younger self. We can be weigh down by the expectations that we placed on ourselves and it is hard to be free of thrm sometimes❤

[@PattMyCat]

Thankyou for answering my question! I found myself nodding along to your answer and have had many of the same thoughts myself - you've already succeeded in converting me to a "fashion designer who only designs one person's wardrobe" so keep it up! If there are enough of us hopefully we can make a dent in the profits of those gross "luxury" brands.

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you! I feel like my aversion to luxury brands is mostly aversion to luxury brand customers who would spend like 33 grand on one jacket, but not pay proper taxes or like...help anyone instead 😬 I value the handcrafting work of couturiers and adore beautiful textiles/embroidery/tailoring, but whew, there is some serious icky-ness in the luxury market

[@IAmCraftingAgain]

I've learnt pattern manipulation entirely from you. It's great. I transferred my best fitting rtw dress to paper, tweaked it and that's my block, with the amount of ease I like. I tend to make 2 darted bodices all the time but I often manipulate sleeve shape, and last month I made my first made a yoked gathered above bust blouse, without need to even check how I do it, that knowledge is entirely ingrained after a couple years of watching you :)

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Most excellent!! I love to hear this ❤️ And thank you!

[@hypnoticfig6085]

I feel you, my 12 year old/teen self is a truly tough critic... Thanks for being open instead of skipping a more intense question ^_^

[@juliemeanor6531]

A note about knitting. I am mathematically challenged. This is what I do to follow patterns., 1, use stitch markers! 2 , take notes to remind yourself what you are doing. You can write on the pattern sheet. ( I photo copy and sometimes enlarge to read easier. 3, keep at it, muscle memory and experience clicks in and it gets easier to produce a great item. 4, find a knitting mentor irl or on 😮KZbin. Love your channel, learned a lot about flat pattern drafting and I actually do it and have fun wearing my creations. ❤💐💐. Ps love the kitten update.

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you Julie! I'm afraid with my anxiety knitting goes "did I just do that stich backwards? wait, maybe it was supposed to be knit two together on the last row too, shit, better unwind again?!" and counting every row 800 times becuase of second guessing, markers or no, so alas: I knew a real roadblock when I met one 😂

[@rachelvancamp6982]

In the last two years, thanks to Bianca, I finally realized I don't have to learn some Chinese method of measuring in order to design clothes, since I now have a sloper and it really works. So at 81, I am catching up on my love for 30s, 40's, but mostly 50s fashion. Sadly, it's very hard to find vintage plaids or decent corduroys, ɓut at least dotted swiss, eyelet, batiste, and various polkadots can be found....if you look hard enough and stay out of fabric shops. As a matter of fact I have made 4 circle skirts from cotton table cloths which worked out quite well. I am a little sad that Bianca's recent creations aren't my cup of tea, however, I've learned enough from her to do anything I want to do for myself and am a much more competent sewist, plus am doing a lot more hand-sewing. As for knitting, I failed to follow in my mother's footsteps as she made numerous matching skirts and sweaters in the 1930's. However, my granddaughter taught me a crochet stitch and I completed my first and probably only crochet project, an afgan, this year. As a teenager and beyond I had a burning desire to be a journalist. Was editor of my high school newspaper and was allowed to teach the journalism class. And studied journalism in college. I recently understood that women news reporters back in the day were most likely to end up in some backwater writing obits and women were unwelcome in the field. So now I can be very glad that my life had a lot of travel and variety and I got to teach a lot of different things. There are good reasons why our lives can get redirected even from the things we think we love the most.

[@CollaborativeDog]

Thank you for the q & a. I don't sew, but enjoy watching people create. I love "historical" movies from the 30s and 40s. The twists that Edith Head and Adrian (among others) did to make period attire "fashionable" were incredible. Even Scarlett O'Hara's costumes in the 2nd half of Gone with the Wind are incredible late 30s twists of 1870s fashion, which are fab. Stella Dallas (the Barbara Stanwyck version) has fun costuming. The Hunger (1980s) also has incredible fashion and set design. As an aside, Nightmare Alley is a remake which starred Tyrone Power and Linda Darnell, with I think Rita Hayworth (who all reunited in Blood and Sand).

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Adrian suits are the holy grail to me 🤩

[@sabrinaqualley5743]

Good idea to keep your cats out of the sewing space - for exactly the reason you mentioned! My cat was staying with my mom when I was out of town once, and swallowed a bunch of thread which got stuck in her intestines. Cost about $2500 for surgery 11 years ago (cat was 2 at the time). Thankfully she's still going strong, but it was a difficult time for all of us.

[@jesskinnane8060]

“Leaning in and becoming an iridescent beetle” Love it! 😂

[@VeretenoVids]

I giggled when you mentioned not being able to get the black clothes you wanted when you were younger because my mother forbade me to wear black until I was 15. She was convinced it would be a teenage phase. I'm, ah, several decades older than that now and I'm still wearing black every day. 😂

[@TheClosetHistorian]

I go through goth phases yes, Victorian goth, then sci-fi goth, then film noir goth...those kinda phases right? 🤣🧛‍♀️

[@creepycutiecrafty]

I am very jealous of your bead hoard… so much potential! I work within the museum system here in the uk, and even though I have an advanced degree, I cannot get beyond an entry level job. As well as having that level of education, you’ve also got to have contact with the “right” people. It’s such a closed career path in many ways. 🤷🏼‍♀️ Very interesting video. It shows how many different paths people take in life! It’s been fascinating to see how your style has evolved over the course of your videos. I love the style you have now, you definitely know how to make the darker styles work for you!

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you! Yeah museum work has so many extra hoops to jump through to secure a position 😖

[@theophania10]

Your comment on making clothes for the life you want to lead really resonated with me. I would love to have more courage to wear the dresses and skirts I made to work or just out and about instead of them collecting dust in my closet. Wish me luck and thanks as always for your wonderful content!! 😊

[@kachnickau]

I am so happy there is so many people with good questions, I am always interesting in all the "backstage" of any show or people I am following, but I have hard time coming up with questions. Thank you for sharing :)

[@janevacani6789]

Thoroughly enjoyed this Q&A! Love the way you express yourself both verbally and facially, you really get your views across.

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you Jane!

[@karinjcollstrup7360]

You ARE the fashionbrand that make me make my own things. Eccept I do not copy your stuff, but you are the ONE inspiration for me to finally (52y) get clothes that fit both my body AND mind. And giving me most of the knowlegde to actually DO it... Thank you!

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you! That exactly what I would wish for, to spread the techniques and everyone can use them as they wish ✨

[@maramcmanus9669]

I am really surprised to hear your look books don't do as well as other videos. They are great! Maybe people are just so in awe that they forget to hit the l Iike button!

[@ianflynn3262]

Working backwards. You might like FUNNY FACE. It's a musical. Audrey Hepburn goes from bookstore owner to supermodel at the hands of Fred Astaire and Kay Thompson. The costumes are exquisite by Edith Head and Givenchy. Knitting: same! I joke that I'm a fabric whisperer because I'm really good at fabric manipulation, but can't knit or crochet for the life of me. I love the Look Books! Especially the ones influenced by British Pathé. I'm surprised they don't do well. Anyway, I think you're amazing. Thanks for the Q&A!

[@petapendlebury9024]

Love that film! Dovima is such an icon. I have so many questions around her voice in that film and if she was happy with the way she was portrayed.

[@TheClosetHistorian]

I like Funny face well enough, though most 50's-early 60's films are often too "romantic" and cheerful for me 😂 Give me Noir!

[@nerdaccount]

I've been slowly making my own sloaper, 100 percent because of you!

[@nightfall3605]

Same! I will rewatch the video occasionally to embed the concepts, but really at this stage I’m trying to better my sewing skills so that the results are predictable. I have a hard enough time getting the quilt blocks to align let alone trying to execute a princess seam 🤦‍♀️. Good luck to us both!

[@EmilyLearns]

I really appreciated your insight about how 12 (or 16) year-old me can actually be something of a bully one needs to keep in check. That rings so true for me.

[@nniffa393]

I'm glad that other people thought of good questions for you cos all i could think to ask was to see the cats. Which i stand by, they're very cute.

[@fawnklein7560]

Thank you for just showing us how to make the patterns ourselves. I can't afford school for this & would only ever make stuff for myself anyways, so the end wouldn't justify the means if i did go to school for it. Thank you Thank you a thousand times thank you for providing these free resources online. And thank you to any patrons in the comments here because you guys pay her so she can teach us stuff for free. 💗👽💗

[@iokheaira]

First, love the lookbooks, the styling is always a delight! Second, it is possible to knit based on the shape of a flat pattern without counting the stitches. It's better for things that don't require blocking (wet finishing/steaming can change knits dramatically), but that's how I was originally taught at school! Of course that's not in any way a reason to force yourself to knit when there's so much more fun things to do 😁 it just reminded me that like a dress form for sewing, stitch-counting is not an absolute requirement for knitting.

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you!

[@Notlost-lj9qt]

I love your look books but equally enjoy so many other things you present: the beetles, the drafting techniques (so cool to see and learn!), and the accessories you make. I like both the vintage “casual”, the costuming vintage, and the more “modern” materials.

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you!

[@Shad0ish]

I feel like 'what would child you think?' is never actually a light, funny question. It can be hard dealing with where I am now vs what I expected when I was young, even though I'm doing okay. I'd like to thank you for your tutorials. I have never followed a pattern successfully aside from 1 corset which still needs adjustment, but you showed me how I can make my own. I've now made blocks for myself, my partner, and a friend since then and made several garments from what I've learned from, mainly just your' expertise and @gettheetothestitchery 's fun muddling along. And they fit better than anything I've ever bought from a store or received as a hand-me-down. I don't think I would have stuck to sewing and been so empowered by it as I am if I'd had to just use commercial patterns. And I certainly could never have the sort of comfortable, physically and mentally, wardrobe I am cultivating for myself. Thank you. I look forwards to seeing your eventual old apothecary sewing room. I'll probably use it for inspiration for my own office! Sorry for showing my 2c in here, but do you use a good moisturizer before using makeup? If not, it may help keep it off your skin throughout the process. Maybe. I hope a glittery hypoallergenic makeup comes along eventually, because you look gorgeous in deep colour and much sparkle. Also, you look like the sort of person to accidentally make all the cats fall in love.

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you! I am a total cat lady and the cats all know it 😂💜

[@kimjay2380]

Having discovered your channel recently Bianca, am now binging whilst working on a bodice block! I love sewing and have many years of all types of sewing, including alterations, but finally now can no longer settle for nearly okay fitting makes. Thank you for your inspiration and very excellent no-nonsense tuition! You’re a keeper! Xx

[@zankapfel4390]

No question, just wanted to thank you! I've been learning from your for so long now and your side husselen videos have become such treasures to me! We're about the same age and I've had a very hard time with my career and relate to being far behind on the original timeline. You've been such an inspiration! And your looks are always to die for.

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you! ❤️

[@DareYa2BDifferent]

Hey Bianca! Love your channel and content. I also have sensitive skin and super sensitive eyes/allergic to most makeup, and also LOVE bold, creative makeup when I wear it. I have found, through 30ish years of trial and error, that the best removal trick for me is a double cleanse using a cleansing oil (I use DHC) first to remove my makeup (even removes the waterproof eyeliner and mascara I use), and then wash with a very creamy, moisturizing, calming cleanser (I currently use and love Sorella Apothecary Apricot Mango Cleansing Milk). Your mileage may vary, of course, but thought I would share what years of misery led me to find that actually works. Oh, and I use a Makeup Eraser knockoff cloth to do the cleaning.

[@HosCreates]

I second the double cleanse! I use almond oil first to remove water proof stuff then the Evan healing lavender cleansing milk. My face is really sensitive. And for the past 6 years I can't use SLS (sodium laurel suphate)or SCS(sodium coco sulphate) on my skin..

[@linr8260]

Also, while I would absolutely not pressure anyone to do it, I will say that crochet brain is very different from knitting brain. I've tried to learn to knit so many times and can't wrap my brain around it, while crochet is very intuitive. So maybe it's worth trying if you ever have the right combo of curiosity and available time.

[@mohmeegaik6686]

Hi Bianca, thanks for the video.

[@emilythomas6776]

A note on homeownership. My husband and I recently bought a house. He was 40 when we bought it as first time homeowners. It's fine to take a while before you buy a house. It is a big commitment. Anyway, I'm excited for your eventual house and to see your journey. ❤

[@ShinySarah44]

For people who find pattern drafting physically taxing, I recommend checking out digital drafting options. I use Valentina and while it has a steep learning curve, it has let me get my base blocks down, and even some pattern manipulation (still figuring that part out). But it is feasible to do; and at least saves as much leaning over table nearly as much. I then print on A4 and glue or tape them together. Once I have the pattern set I'll trace it onto a sturdier paper for easier tracing later.

[@AkaiHimawari]

Regarding your patterns…I feel you’re already giving them to us for free! I’m super grateful because me and my weird body has been having a blast with learning patterndrafting from you so THANK YOU!

[@TheClosetHistorian]

I'm glad to hear it!! ❤️

[@downearth48]

hearing your response to the "what would [younger] you think of where you are in life" is just so refreshing and comforting to me. I am currently In that 'younger stage, in my early 20's, and what I expected for myself even 5 years ago, going into college, is I think so different from where I am right now in my life and where I expect myself to be in a few years. Your words on having grace for yourself and how happy you are with you current lot in life bring me a lot of hope that in 5, 10 years I might also be content, even if my life is vastly different from what I imagine in might be then.

[@NoDecaf7]

I relate a lot to what you're saying at 39:30 Thank you for this reminder that I cannot hold myself to the standard I set as a kid, the world just didn't play out the way we perceived it through naive eyes.

[@clairewulf]

your pattern drafting series has been an absolute lifesaver for me. this is how i'm able to make clothes that fit me. i don't think i've ever used a pattern? i was just guessing before i started pattern drafting, which is absolutely bonkers. your work here is so so so treasured.

[@QueenOfTheNorth65]

That material of that blouse/top is gorgeous. Love it!

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you! It's this fabric here www.etsy.com/listing/1022267612/gilded-stretch-velvet-fabric-blue-moon? 🤩

[@sarahlongshore2605]

Just wanted to say that you are an amazing designer!! I've been watching you from just about the start and watched your channel explode!!!! You inspire so many of us to become better and to try harder. I know the feeling of wanting to be a designer. I'm 58 and have wanted it since I was 6 when my mother showed me my aunt's paper dolls from the 30s & 40s. My mother was a seamstress. But I got married and had 4 children. The desire never left me. I don't sew anymore but I have so many paper dolls I've designed for lol. You really are something special. I saw it from the start!!!❤❤❤❤❤❤❤ And you are a beautiful young woman!!!!

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you so much Sarah! ❤

[@BeowulfIsMinNama]

Just incase you haven’t heard it… thank you for being on KZbin! I absolutely adore YOU and your channel. I do want to create my own sloper and follow your pattern making. But, I don’t have your gorgeous shape; wish I did, but… Have you considered possibly doing a slop of someone who does not have a shape/silhouette similar to yours? Maybe your mom, sibling, friend, maybe even a patron! It would also be wonderful to see how some of the patterns, the designs, the styles that you’ve created for your silhouette translate and can be adapted to a different silhouette. Thank you again for all you’ve done; I look forward to seeing everything you do!

[@BeowulfIsMinNama]

ARCANE SEASON 2!!🎉🎉🎉🎉

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you! I definitely don't have other humans handy near at hand, and my mom has a more traditionally "fashion" friendly shape than I do really, so even convincing her wouldn't end up being too different than working on a standard mannequin ha!

[@BeowulfIsMinNama]

⁠@@TheClosetHistorian 🙋‍♀️well you know you have about 150k volunteers 😂. I’ll keep my fingers crossed! Maybe a collaboration w another KZbinr?

[@FloridasYesteryear]

I tried to learn how to knit because I always wanted to make socks. I don't know why. But I do. Alas, my hands refuse to communicate with each other so I switched to crochet and then I had to find a left handed crochet channel on youtube. Thank God for KZbin because books would say read right handed instructions and good luck!

[@lynndhering1218]

Your videos are so relatable and so "you". I love the "je ne sais quoi" vibe. I've learned so much and I'm so thankful that you're willing to share your instructions/designs/patterns with us. It's because of your videos that I learned about flat pattern drafting, how to modify my existing patterns into something completely different. I'm still "new" to sewing in my 40's, but it's been a passion for years. I remember my obsession with the Barbie Fashion Plate Designer that started my curiosity. I'm here for all of it. The maximalist, blingy, beady, sewing, controlled creative chaos is an esthetic mood I'm here for. Going over to Patreon now to subscribe. ❤

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you so much!! ❤

[@CharredFibers]

That would be interesting: the evolution of fashion in your life. Like start from high school or early college and move forward. ☺️

[@samanthapereira3733]

For what its worth.. my 12yr old self would also be horrified at where i am in life now. So would my 20yr old self. But you're right, those girls didn't have all the information. 🤷🏻‍♀️ This was really interesting and i loved learning more about you. Would love some more time on the questions you suggested could have a longer video. Also, you ARE teaching us so well. I adjusted a pattern recently to make it fit and im sure its your voice that has filtered into my brain!

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you Samantha!!

[@shantigarin7272]

Yes yes yes for a style evolution video!

[@magikallydelicious]

Say What? I Love your lookbooks. I like the fact that I can see the results of your sewing.

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you!

[@vincentbriggs1780]

"Library of sequins" ohh man, one of those lovely old card catalogue thingies with all the drawers would be so good for storing beads and sequins!

[@leahnichol6665]

I just want to say I bought my place at 47 years old and have just paid the mortgage. Your have lots of time, and you certainly have the talent, attitude, energy, and attractiveness to make the dream happen. One step at a time and plenty of patience applied and suddenly, out of nowhere it all comes together.

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you Leah!!

[@gerriebell2128]

I just got drawn into your Q & A…. My reaction is that I’m glad you got to the point of not caring what people think. As for the “12 year old you” question, you had the right of it. I taught middle school and high school, and it is true, most of them are totally unrealistic about career goals, lifestyle goals, and life in general. Even showing them “the numbers” of income required for their life wishes (and therefore education level needed for many occupations), didn’t help them a whole lot. 12 year olds just don’t have the capacity to imagine accurately about adult life. So I hope those types of questions didn’t upset you. It’s important to have goals but also important to find happiness in the “now”. It is sort of a balancing act between the two. Thank you for the videos you make showing how to make a pattern. I don’t draw well, and I do NOT understand sleeves and armscyes well at all, so I have decided to buy patterns and learn to fit them to me and hack them as needed/wanted. For me seeing things on paper and understanding how it will translate into a 3-d Garment on my 3-D body is a challenge … fitting “around” me is easy. It’s the necklines and armholes and sleeves that are hard. Anyway, just wants to encourage you…. You already know to just be you, but I really want to encourage you to not get discouraged in it because of comments from people. The head knows but emotions fall behind at times…

[@ceara3100]

I worked in museums for years, and they are the most competitive, backstabbing places. Ever. I worked in a contemporary art museum and an anthropology museum. If you aren't willing to push someone (figuratively) in front of a train, it isn't for you.

[@chaeburger]

As a fellow museum professional, I agree! The field is so small and so intense!

[@ceara3100]

@chaeburger May the odds ever be in your favor. It's rough.

[@Susanfuzz]

I feel like you’re either a fabric or yarn person. I come from a yarn family…my mother only sewed because she had to and could knit a fair isle with one hand tied behind her back, lol… but I’m a fabric gal; I can’t knit to a gauge to save my life 😭

[@patterntreasures]

Thanks so much for answering my question and showing how you store your patterns. They look so neat! I really enjoyed this video. I like all your videos but sometimes it's nice to just listen to you talking while I sew. I'm so glad you're here on the internet, sharing your flair for design and drafting. I've been into vintage fashion for quite a few years now but I mostly sew my own (cos real vintage can be expensive and often doesn't fit me). Sometimes I go for authentic true vintage fabrics and designs but other times I just wanna make a dress from a vintage pattern in whatever snazzy fabric inspires me. I love seeing all your brocades and dramatic designs. In a similar vein, I just got some glittery African wax print fabric to make a cocktail dress. Thanks for being inspiring and awesome! 💖

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you!! Wax prints are gorgeous so I'm sure it will be fabulous 🪡✨

[@jensewsvintage]

personal style is meant to evolve !! everyone can shutup !

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you Jen!

[@joecoloff4247]

I like your look books and I like to see when you show us how you make your outfits

[@alexisday7701]

Just wanted to say, I love all your videos! I really enjoy your explanations and process for pattern drafting and love the variety of additional crafting projects. You've encouraged me to step into the world of sewing and play with pattern drafting. I love the evolving style and variety of your channel! I also think you're very relateable. I am working hard on meeting younger me with more realistic, set-in-reality expectations. It's hard!

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you Alexis! 💜

[@DAYBROK3]

love the lookbooks i cant imagine (and i have an amazing imagination) that they would not do well.

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you! A sewing video will always do better, but I am determined 😅❤️

[@tishie42]

You have addressed every single one of those questions in another video. I think I've watched every single video though.😂 You are a fashion designer to me,and you have given me more patterns than i could ever even buy. The information you give us for free is absolutely priceless and is a masterclass in drafting for home sewing using industry standards. You helped me immensely during covid and i was sewing like crazy during the whole thing. Thank you for being you!

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you! ❤️ Also, true. I figure new people may have not gone back to watch my older videos since there are like 300+ at this point 😂

[@castoputa]

Cat distribution network functioning nicely I see 😻😻😻

[@Jane-cr9bp]

Absolutely do not let that former you voice in your head have space. We must live in the NOW. (Teenagers for the most part have no idea what real life is really like, and how hard things can be to achieve. If they did, they'd just give up. Real life is a harsh teacher.) Bianca, you'd be amazed how many people would look at you now and think you successful. Keep at it, you are inspiring!

[@paulinemegson8519]

Gorgeous cats btw. Nice to meet another cat whisperer btw. I’m known for it and my nickname for years was “catz” In fact my partner/fiancée , who has now passed away, met me online and it was my nick there so he ALWAYS called me catz. I’m writing this with “his” burmese on my lap. Madiba decided I was a suitable sub for his dad after he passed away, but he was always Alexs cat, unlike all the rest of them 😊

[@anniemoon350]

I love your look books!

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you Annie!

[@Noel.Chmielowiec]

I really love your lookbooks! However I need the right settings to watch them, so no one will bother me and ruin the experience. And I was the one asking about the eyeshadow, because girl, same, I will suffer for pretty colours on eyes but I hoped you found something that doesn't burn 😂 I found one (!) brand that has pretty colours and doesn't burn me, but it's a Polish brand and I have no clue if they sell internationally. They even have true holo eyeshadow that doesn't itch me. It's called The Glam Shop. I only have two shadows from them, but they are so pretty. But everyday is kinda crunchy-granola-but-it's-also-purple mineral eyeshadow, I don't want to waste my nice ones to go to the grocery and I like having colours on my eyes 😂

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you Noel!