"Goodwill Gems Transformed: An Exclusive Interview with Fashion Reimaginer Caresse Dionne"

In the world of fashion, creativity knows no bounds. Caresse Dionne breathes new life into clothing through her unique approach to design. Her journey is a testament to the transformative power of imagination and the art of upcycling. Caresse Dionne's path to fashion design took a rather unconventional route. A simple self-reflective question changed the course of her life. We had a chance to interview the fashion futurist. Here are 10 questions with Caresse Dionne.

1. Can you tell us a little about yourself and your background in fashion design?

So I like to call myself a revivalist and re-imaginer. I naturally look at things and begin asking myself, “How can life be breathed into this?” And I begin reimagining. A few years ago, I asked myself if I’d be happier had I studied fashion design in college rather than journalism. So, I decided to pause my career and take as many courses as I could afford at Savannah College of Art & Design. I even got to travel to Japan and study under an incredible professor who encouraged my unique design techniques!

2. How did you first become interested in upcycling clothing?

Funny enough, I had no idea that upcycling was a “thing.” I stumbled into a Goodwill outlet store one day and discovered clothes that had some wear on them but so much more potential still in them. That’s when I began reimagining what they could look like with some minor or drastic alterations. I connected with a local seamstress and started bringing my ideas to life!

3. What drew you to Goodwill as a source for your materials?

I was trying to afford fashion school and all the materials while still being creative and I needed some retail therapy. I needed to shop on a budget, so Goodwill just made the most sense. Once I discovered all there was to offer, I was hooked!

4. Can you describe your design process when creating a new piece? How do you choose which pieces of clothing to use in your designs?

My process for creating a new piece usually consists of me taking all the garments I’ve acquired from Goodwill over a period of time, spreading them out in my garage, and then I just play. It’s like putting a puzzle together. I see what fits. I also believe I make connections based on where I am in life. Like when life’s been up & down, I see connections between thicker garments and maybe soft sweaters.

5. Can you walk us through the steps you take to transform a piece of clothing into a high-fashion item?

Once I’ve reimagined a piece, I pin it together. Literally. I can sew, but I think my seamstress and I work best when I let her do the sewing! I’ve broken enough needles already and don’t always have the equipment needed for heavier garments.

6. How do you stay inspired and continue to come up with new design ideas?

Life is full of inspiration to create from, but I also don’t pressure myself to HAVE to produce on a set schedule. Of course, that works and may be necessary for some designers, but not for my practice. So, I design when I feel pulled to. When I feel like I have something to say and words fall short.

7. What has been your favorite piece to create using Goodwill materials and why?

This has been my favorite piece created using Goodwill materials because it’s just…well, I love it! It’s that soft and hard combo I mentioned. We cropped a vintage flannel and added a vintage military liner for the body. The collar is made of a vintage military shirt. And the sleeves. Agh. I believe these were from a modern cardigan but I had to add them. It’s like four pieces in one. And it’s magical!

8. What advice would you give to someone who is interested in upcycling clothing but doesn't know where to start?

Just start. Like seriously. Beyond that, know your “why” and remember it. Why do you want to upcycle? If the answer is to have fun, to try something or to help the environment then no matter what, you’ll always create. Also, don’t be afraid to make something seemingly “simple.”

9. What are your future goals for your fashion design work, and how do you see Goodwill fitting into those plans?

Every year I challenge myself to make a collection, even if it’s just a capsule. I’d love to do that this year and if Goodwill wants to sponsor that endeavor that would be lovely!

10. Where can people find you online to check out more of your work?

My revived textiles can be found at houseofdionne.com and @houseofdionne

We encourage everyone to delve into Caresse Dionne's captivating world of revived textiles. Visit her website at houseofdionne.com and follow her on Instagram @houseofdionne. Her designs redefine fashion proving that creativity knows no boundaries and that discarded garments can become the canvas for remarkable artistry.