Meet Annette - Founder of Victorian and Steampunk
It all started with a Barbie doll and some leftover fabrics.
Since the age of 5 I've been passionate about designing and making clothing. It all started with a Barbie doll and some leftover fabrics from my Grandmother who also loved to sew. Visiting her was like stepping into a wonderland, a huge sewing room filled with all the fabrics, buttons and zippers that my 5-year-old self could ever imagine.
That Barbie doll ended up with some very funky outfits. I remember one spectacular pantsuit covered in apples. She was very stylish:)
These early beginnings developed into a lifelong passion for design and alternative fashion.
I’ve always felt a little different and wanted to express this in my own clothing and hair styles. Punk wasn’t quite right but it wasn’t until I moved to the city that I discovered Goths. Wow. What a revelation. Here was an aesthetic that totally resonated with me. This was it. Elegant, mysterious and just plain cool. And all that black, just perfect to hide in.
I wanted to create clothing for people like me with alternative and gothic tastes. From early beginnings at markets to a Sydney Gothic clothing store specialising in Corsetry and later the fun of the Steampunk genre.
Steampunk
I love this genre for its iconic gadgetry, Victorian themed clothing and generally awesome style. It’s a big passion of mine and I love creating for the Steampunk aesthetic.
Alice in Wonderland
You might ask “how is Alice in Wonderland connected with Steampunk”
Well, in truth it’s not. I just really like Alice in Wonderland and the imagery of it.
So much fun to design with, whether it’s on boots, bags or a full Victorian Queen of Hearts ensemble fit for a wedding or Steampunk event.
So where does it all happen?
In my rather chaotic studio tucked away in the beautiful Southern Highlands of NSW.
You'll find me working each day surrounded by a variety of fabrics, patterns and all the other necessities for creating custom clothing.
I’m helped by assistants Sharon and Stephanie and also by family members, James, Charlie and Will. We all pitch in at Medieval and Steampunk Festivals where we sell in person.
I also partner with several international printers. They custom print my fabric designs and accessories making it possible for me to offer a wide range of fun items to pair with my custom clothing.