This personalised accessory was originally a timeworn soft leather long wallet, which was once loved by its original owner.
I have been searching for a weeny wallet suitable for my essential cards where it could fit into my other handbags. Unfortunately, I had not come across one that I perceived as a reflection of my inner psyche. That is why for a few weeks in March on the fits and starts process I began to dismantle the venerable long wallet where I revamped it into a subjective accessory.
RIVETS AND LINING
The rivets and lining used in customising this accessory are repurposed materials. In particular, the rivets are fragments of my tattered handbags whilst the lining is a surplus material of my unsuitable dress. On the other hand, I also sewed a new pair of crystal heart buttons to compliment the red shade around my custom-made engraved label.
STITCHING
I glued the cut-out outer shells and then, used an electric sewing machine to create even gaps for the holes of the thread. This means that there was no inserted thread in the needle whilst I ran through the shells on the feed dogs of the machine. Thereafter, I hand-sewn the shells carefully and neatly.
This accessory is neither a desirable collection piece nor will hold its value like the iconic designer brands as time goes by. However, the process of meticulously creating it to be worn again is one of my several ways to reduce the harmful disruption and damage being done to the natural world. Thus, I consider this personalised wristlet cardholder a priceless piece.
Sometime before March this year (2020), there was an alarming report of a disease outbreak which occurred in the central province of China. People in the United Kingdom were becoming more aware of the outbreak and exceedingly, when it started to disperse out of Wuhan, China. That is why, international news on the television and over the radio apprised and forewarned the world population of its trajectory and threat. Apart from the compiled news, there was numerous raw footage originated, in and out, of Wuhan containing leaked stories of distressed people.
When the outbreak morphed as an epidemic then later magnified itself as an unprecedented pandemic, people around the world increasingly became agitated and mindful of its petrifying course. That is why, when it reached the domain of European countries there was a surged in the number of people being sent to hospitals as well as the mournful increased in the death toll.
This formidable danger of Covid-19 echoed across the world. As a result, the U.K government gradually announced its lockdown guidelines for the benefit of its people, the visitors and more importantly, its NHS & all key workers. In effect, commercial establishments ceased to operate; tourist attractions were prohibited; offices/factories were dead-bolted and schools were suspended. In connection to this, residents and visitors were asked to stay-at-home at their respective residences/addresses. If and when they go out, they must abide with and practice the 2-metre social distancing rule and avoid congregating in parks etc. On an encouraging note, just last week (10 May 2020) the U.K. Government announced a strategic roadmap for Corona virus lockdown recovery; that is by organising a "stay alert" step-by-step easing/lifting of restrictions.
In the early days of stay-at-home ordinance, the people in the U.K. either found it as a challenge or a beneficial diversion. There were individuals who unselfishly registered themselves for voluntary roles and who unconditionally assist the frail/vulnerable around their neighbourhood. Moreover, most people handled their time by tidying up hoarded stuff and by rediscovering neglected interests and passions in life.
More than a month ago, your Quidnunc Queen Victoria completely revamped a souvenir gift from her dearest sister, Dayanara Mesmeize. The improvisation allotted by her was a combined conceptualisation, dedication and fiddle. She performed it using the convenience of stitches made from a sewing machine and the laborious needle & thimble of hand sewing. During her attempt at giving it a new appearance, she hastily made a few stitching errors that compelled her to almost give up finishing it. She even thought that she had ruined a lovely souvenir because of a radical idea. Fortunately, she didn't tear it apart but instead, learn from her mistakes. That is why, with pride and joy, here is another handcrafted pieces of Fits and Starts that is associated to the Queen of Birmingham, Dayanara Mesmeize. It has been named as the “Generous Dayanara On-A-Lockdown Versatile Clutch Bag (022020) in Philippines T'boli Tribal Print”. The T'boli (Tagabili to lowlanders) are an animist ethnic group inhabiting highland areas in southwestern Mindanao, centring on Lake Sebu (TauSebu is another of the people's names). (Source: https://www.encyclopedia.com)
The Generous Dayanara On-A-Lockdown Versatile Clutch Bag (022020) in Philippines T'boli Tribal Print is fully padded and structured in an irregular geometrical shape. It has a sheated top grab/carry handle with a pair of grommets out of remnants; a recycled metal push-lock clasp and reclaimed metal triangle flat studs feet. Additionally, it has a customised accoutrement, dust bag, with elastic opening. The reinforced contrasting fabrics utilised were from an an antiquated wool scarf and most of the scarf around the original designed bag.
This Dayanara clutch bag has two different layers of linings: a red cotton cloth for the main interior compartment and a colourful gradient fabric for its opening flap. In order to make this “cross crawl” piece of hers more functional, she embellished it with a couple of extra details. A clashing colour interior slip in pocket and an unplanned hand sewn back exterior motley slip in pocket.
Her handcrafted piece may not go up against and match the sartorial status of highway robbery designer bags. In particular, this may not become a desirable obsession for the wealthy societal classes and nouveau rich collectors. However, this Generous Dayanara On-A-Lockdown Versatile Clutch Bag (022020) in Philippines T'boli Tribal Print has unparalleled gilt-edge calibres as a fully functional generous piece with A1 character.
(Miss Alessandra Mae, Miss Mango Tree Out of this World 2017)
I missed the nearest bus stop because of the pending roadworks which caused me to walk my way back to the Mango Tree Restaurant on Grosvenor Pl, Belgravia.
What I saw as I approached the restaurant was its spirited guests who were either enjoying the vapour substance of cigarettes or just posing for memorabilia snaps behind the Mango Tree's six-foot notice board printed on canvas. Moreover, the area was protected from any harm that may come by their courteous and light-hearted security personnel.
I was on time and the pageant hadn't started yet. As a matter of fact, I could count the heads of early birds from the ingress of the venue. Prior to joining in the present crowd who were enjoying drinks in their hands, I had my wrist stamped with a "pass" mark by a team of receptionists. That was when I finally met in person Yonlada who had kindly responded to my calls before and forwarded my open letter in the form of an e-mail to the organiser, Sine Kliangsin. I was also able to approach and thank Sine in person who was at that time engaged in conversation with the 2 members of the jury.
The black elevated platform (stage) was laid solidly and the background was ameliorated minimally with theatre inspired smaggle panel and tie back curtains. Apart from that, the VIP area (on the left side of the stage) wasn't just full with special guests and celebrities as it was also a designated area for the lights and sound system stand. It had an elbow-to-elbow feel particularly when the employees started to fence and secure a passage out for the candidates after appearing on stage. In my opinion, the lights and sound system booth should have been placed on the right side of the stage to yield more ample space for their VIP guests. However, it was easy for me to make this assessment from the vantage point of VIP area and to make an impartial observation. Change is constant and can only be carried-out visibly by someone sturdy and optimistic in life- like the organiser and her cordial team. As the old quote says, “There is no harm in trying..”, and in by doing so, you will be more likely to alter what has become familiar in the eyes of people. As a result, you will either have a splendid outcome after your efforts or you will gain lessons to be learnt.
The organiser, Sine Kliangsin, didn't just show perseverance and robustness in making the beauty pageant an anticipated celebration this year. She can also be described as a concerned humble woman who rendered great care for the candidates on stage, especially when the atmosphere was getting muggier and oppressively stifling. It was indeed a true act of humility despite her stature position at the Mango Tree Thai Classic Restaurant. Pat on the back to you Sine and your energetic team!
The venue was getting crowded by the jovial presence of the audience who couldn't wait for the show to commence. Such as, the eagled eye admirers who couldn't wait to see more of the candidates; the supportive women who showed encouragement for the LGBTQI+ community and the loving family/friends who audibly shouting the candidate names.
The headlights were on and the leading spotlight was single-handedly focused on stage by a London-based radio Magic Station presenter, Angie Greaves. Her introductory voice acknowledged the presence of the celebrity guests as well as the prominent people in the crowd. Apart from them, the outstanding members of the jury were cited one by one. Amongst them were, the All Time Sexy Queen, Lizzy Cundy; the former big brother housemate, Kathreya “Kat” Kasisopa; a very familiar SHOWBIZ face, Simon Gross and the previous Miss Mango Tree contestant with an excellent entrepreneurial profile, Amber Vee.
(Angie Greaves)
(The Jury from left to right: Lizzy Cundy, Kathreya “Kat” Kasisopa, Simon Gross and Amber Vee)
The audience was getting more fidgety and ruckus which is why, the duo carnival-inspired dancers assuaged the air. Their elaborately yellow & red feather costumes as well as the lush headdresses were made more seductive because of the wiggly movements of their voluptuous bodies. All I can say is, “it's all about the hips, the boobeys, the cheeks and the eyes (LOL!)”.
(1. Miss Agatha Mae De Gula and 2. Miss Neha Jasmin)
(3. Miss Geri Love and 4. Miss Korakot Chansiri)
(5. Miss Sophia and 7. Miss Areeyan Sutani)
(8. Miss Nina Nichole Williams and 9. Miss Saskhia Marie)
(10. Miss Iwa Moto and 11. Miss Alessandra Mae)
(12. Miss Leah Anne Kubuyashi and 13. Miss Peach Pongpusut)
(14. Miss Jennifer Chai)
Their individual ostentatious display of their costumes astonished everyone of us! They were all called back to gather on stage as one and after their hand-clasping appearance, a dance intermission number performed by a pair of topless hunks awakened most of us.
The candidates then changed to something less delicate and heavy. It was time to flaunt their innate sexiness and enhanced figure; wearing their preferred SWIMSUIT with dramatic revelations. They appeared one by one on stage with the complimentary singing performance from Miss Nicole Lee like the theme of the annual fashion show of Victoria's Secret.
It was indeed the steamy and stimulating part of the pageant because of the candidates' long slender legs; pop bubble butts; flat stomachs and nicely defined feminine breasts. They headed back to their dressing room and the stage was entertained by a raffle draw based on the numbers printed in the admission tickets. Thenceforward, it was succeeded by the candidates elegant appearance on stage by wearing their flowy LONG GOWNS. In other words, there was classiness in bearing; vibrancy in colours and exquisiteness in designs.
That was the penultimate round of the pageant which was appreciated by the audience. Once again, they were all called back and gathered like a rainbow on stage only to award the deserving candidates for the 2 minor titles:
(The Best in Costume, Miss Alessandra Mae)
(The Best Body, Miss Areeyan Sutani)
Last Sunday, there were 13 wilful candidates who brandish themselves on stage but only 5 were chosen to continue during the jittery Question & Answer portion. The English fashion consultant, author and television presenter, Gok Wan, graced the stage with his presence and without further ado, here are the videos of the chosen finalists. My apology for the babble noise in the background.
(From Left to Right: Miss Alessandra Mae, Miss Areeyan Sutani, Miss Iwa Moto, Miss Geri Love and Miss Peach Pongpusut)
(Question: How do you find beautiful and how do your represent it?)
(Question: How can you be an inspiration to this pageant?)
(Question:If you are to promote tourism in a country, which country would it be and why?)
(Question: What you will gain by entering this pageant?)
(Question: What is your unique quality in this competition?)
What do you think of their answers? Or shall I say, who was In This World and Out Of This World? The top 5 finalist headed back to their dressing room for the final touch up and the audience was then diverted with the appearance of Miss Mango Tree Circus 2016, Miss Amy Franke, in her twirling traditional dance.
The understandably nervous finalists were called back to gather and face again the high spirited crowd as well as the impartial jury. The members of the jury unanimously decided who will bring home the coveted crown and title. This year's runners-up and the winner of Miss Mango Tree Out Of This World 2017 are:
From Left to Right
4th Runner-up, Miss Iwa Moto
2nd Runner-up, Miss Peach Pongpusut
Miss Mango Tree Out Of This World 2017, Miss Alessandra Mae
1st Runner-up, Miss Areeyan Sutani
3rd Runner-up, Miss Geri Love
Losing in a battle can lead to an emotional despair but bear in mind that there is no success without a failure. Keep a positive mind and disposition in life in order for you not to give up. So, pick yourself up and recreate yourself as life must go on.
If you would like to see more photos, just click on link below...
