What's in Your Wardrobe: Scobel Clothing
Joining us for this year's Selvedge Wardrobe Revolution Weekend, Jackie Parsons of Scobel Clothing, shares what is in her wardrobe and how it shaped her range of handmade clothes and accessories. A true connoisseur of re-using and recycling materials, Jackie will be teaching us how we can make use of a felted fabric from a wool garment that has been deliberately or accidentally shrunk in her Slipper Making workshop on Sunday 20 October 2024 between 14:00 - 16:00 BST.
Text by Jackie Parsons of Scobel Clothing
Growing up, I had a few cherished items that I wore as often as I could, while most of my clothes were hand-me-downs from my brother, mother, father, and even my grandmother—a favourite source of treasures. The high street was mainly for essentials like underwear, socks, and school uniforms, with shoes being the most exciting purchase. Because of this, I never really explored the high street for clothing.
In our household, clothes were never thrown away until they were truly worn out. I’ve always loved fashion, so I learned to be resourceful.
In my later years, I worked in costume design for film and television, sourcing pieces from the vast selection at Lawrence Corner Army Surplus Stores, jumble sales, and charity shops. I would dig deep to find the luxury of 1950s couture, and it’s this blend of influences that informs my creations today.
Most of what’s in my wardrobe consists of clothes I’ve made myself. I see my clothing-making as a symbiotic relationship with life, crafting what I desire and need while refining my skills along the way. My wardrobe is also sprinkled with precious items I’ve collected over time.
Though much has changed since childhood, my approach remains similar. Now, I draw from the knowledge gained while recreating period costumes, the appreciation I developed for the textures and refinement of 1950s couture, and the freedom I feel in utility clothing. With these subtle combinations, I like to infuse a touch of romance, creating a soft backdrop of fantasy to brighten my everyday life.
Jackie Parsons of Scobel Clothing will be teaching an online Slipper Making workshop on Sunday 20 October 2024 between 14:00 - 16:00 BST.
Find out more and book your place:
www.selvedge.org/products/slipper-making-with-scobel-clothing