Dreaming of fashion

Local designer looks to Aboriginal culture and animals for inspiration for her pieces

Sigourney Burrell creates head-turning creations with feather and leather to help bring out your inner animal. Len Peterson

This year, fall fashion has brought many animalistic trends including leopard print, various furs and feathers. Winnipeg-based accessory line Ruby Feathers has got you covered with pieces that will bring out your inner animal.

Owner and creator Sigourney Burrell began creating her pieces after experimenting with making patches, silk screening shoes and creating birthday and seasonal cards. After picking up a macaw feather from Montreal, she began making a few earrings and realized her work was in popular demand.

Ruby Feathers doesn’t just carry earrings, but also features a variety of accessories to add a unique and creative twist to your wardrobe.

“(It) has evolved into a product line that carries vests, belts, earrings, headdresses, necklaces and foot/arm fringe,” said Burrell.

The creation of each piece involves a different approach, which results in truly unique pieces of art.

“I usually create new pieces from dreams I’ve had. Once it’s in my head, I have to make it.”

I usually create new pieces from dreams I’ve had. Once it’s in my head, I have to make it.

Sigourney Burrell, fashion designer, Ruby Feathers

The inspiration behind each creation lies in the materials themselves. Burrell aims to keep the natural beauty of the materials she uses.

“I like to let the materials speak to me,” she said. “I love the raw nature of the materials I am working with, so it’s my hope to capture some of that in every piece I create.”

Aboriginal culture in Winnipeg also played a role in her current line of headdresses. Artist Darryl Murdock was able to help Burrell recreate these magnificent works of art in a contemporary design.

Although trends involving animals are all the rage right now, Burrell doesn’t base her designs on currents fads. The trained oil painter and fine arts graduate began making her creations a year before they hit the mainstream.

“I don’t feel like I’m making things to coincide with the times. Rather, in these times this is my medium,” she said.

Burrell’s personal style can be defined in one word: attitude.

“I am all about wearing neutral clothes and having one or two accessories that stand out. I feel as though my personal style changes from day to day,” she said.

If you’re looking for some pieces to add excitement to your wardrobe, do opt for fur, leather vests and boot covers that are available at Ruby Feathers.

The array of headdresses in interesting designs and vibrant colours are sure to make a statement.

Interested in seeing how these pieces are made? Appointments are available to enter the world of the Ruby Feathers workshop for a studio visit. Email [email protected] or visit www.tinyurl.com/rubyfeathers.

Published in Volume 65, Number 10 of The Uniter (November 4, 2010)

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