ABOUT ME
I am a multidisciplinary Costume Maker and Designer, as well as an Apprentice Milliner. I am currently based in Kent, working predominantly within London and the South East.
I have always had a strong passion for construction and design and studied a range of artistic and theatrical subjects (Literature and Performance, Textiles, Product Design, Visual Arts) during my school years. I was introduced to the world of performance through my 10 years of dance training from a young age, with the original goal of becoming a Ballet dancer; but as I grew up I realised that I better belonged backstage behind the scenes.
I am currently working part time as an apprentice Milliner, enjoying the contrast of strong constructional making and the layering of soft, delicate trimmings and finishes. My skills within different subject fields means I am confident using a diverse range of materials, communicating my ideas effectively, planning, working in both 3D and 2D formats and designing/making for a wide range of performance genres. I also have a huge fascination for fashion history, often experimenting with historical silhouettes within my work and blending the traditional with the contemporary. I enjoy exploring more of fashion approach to garment making, often designing and creating bespoke commissions for myself and clients. I strive to create intricate, yet strong and impactful pieces, through my keen eye for detail and I often play with the concept of light and dark elements within my designs.
BA hons COSTUME DESIGN AND MAKING
I graduated Nottingham Trent University with a BA hons in Costume Design and Making in lockdown 2020, at the click of a button from my bedroom.
I have since worked as a self-employed seamstress and dressmaker, as well as a Freelance Costumier within the world of Theatre and Opera, as a Dresser, Costume maker, Wardrobe Assistant and Wardrobe Supervisor.
APPRENTICE MILLINER AT 'MILLE FLEURS'
After Covid's impact on art venues caused major disruption to the Theatre industry, I undertook work experience at Mille Fleurs in summer 2020, which subsequently inspired my deep appreciation for millinery.
I have since been working part-time as an apprentice Milliner and shop manager at Mille Fleurs since 2021. Whilst learning couture millinery skills, I am also exploring innovative techniques to trim and embellish hats, drawing upon my skills from my other creative areas.
After two years working part-time at Mille Fleurs I will now embark on an in-depth apprenticeship with Gill Stratton (Head Milliner), with the aim of becoming a skilled and assured couture milliner, under the support of QEST funding.
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QEST APPRENTICE 2023
'A 2023 QEST Apprenticeship will support Alice during her training, building upon the current traditional silk flower making and fundamental construction skills she has already developed at Mille Fleurs and covering areas including blocking with fine straws and felts, creating freeform shapes, dyeing and bespoke colour matching, silk trimmings and feathers, as well as business and customer interaction skills.
Alice’s long-term career plans are to continue her freelance work as a costumier and seamstress, whilst maturing as a couture milliner and designer in her own right, building on her repertoire of creative skills and industry experience.'