Papusza in Birdland

Have a Bloody Valentine xoxo LOVEPAPUSZA

2012-02-08T11:28:00.000-08:00

Do you need that perfect sexy ensemble to embody love? A uniform, of sorts, to wear while shooting that special someone with cupid's arrow? There are lot's of sexy and festive wears in my etsy. Have a sneak peak at some of the goods below...

xoxox

p.s. Enter the coupon code LOVEPAPUSZA for free priority shipping on any item in my etsy store between now and Sunday.

Above: Photos, Jewelry and Hair by Karen Galloway Hammer. Millinery by Katie Burley. Makeup by TJ Reese. Models Lauren and TJ.

Above: Photos by Gemma Fleming. Hair by David Lopez. Makeup by Jen Lombardo. Models Jenni and Kayla.

Above: Photo by Kylie Faye. Hair my MeriEster Lucie. Makeup by Kerrin B. Model Emily.

Papusza Couture Feature/Paramicha Write Up in Artery NYC

2012-01-31T11:58:00.000-08:00

I was truly delighted with the beautifully written and well researched write up that awesome NY based curator/creative consultant Daria Brit Shapiro did about my work, and Paramicha Collection, for Artery NYC. If you haven't had a chance to look over the article please have a peak at it here. I really appreciate the political and social focus of this article-I think it puts a great deal of emphasis on what this collection really is all about for me.

Paramicha is still a work in progress. I have stepped away from it for awhile to work on some other projects. Please stay posted for the development of Paramicha later this Summer.

Photo by Elizabeth Raab. Millinery by Katie Burley. MUA Chris Milone. Hair by Arian Garcia. Model Anelisa Durham.

Papusza Couture in January/February Meuse Magazine

2012-01-27T09:55:00.000-08:00

After seeing Kylie Faye's beautiful Solace editorial-which I did the wardrobe for-in the Decmber issue of Meuse Magazine I was pleased to see 2 more editorials I did with Kylie in the current issue of the publication.

Have a look at the spreads below.

Round and Round: Model-Autumn Cheyenne, Makeup-Robert Holzer, Hair-Kyle Goodwin. Top Hot by Tami Marcarian. Gloves and wardrobe by Papusza Stain.

Fly With Me: Model-Emily Bogen, Makeup-Kerrin Birchenough, Hair-MeriEsther Luci. Earrings by Nicolia Jacoby Gibbs. Mask by Change of Face. Slip by Papusza Stain.

Life Outside NY Part 6: California, My Goddamned Graceland

2012-01-25T11:47:00.000-08:00

In early October, after spending a bitter sweet summer in Seattle I said goodbye and headed South with great relief. Although I neglected my typical costume creations during this festive, and favored time of year for me, I endured some great adventures. I set on my way on a road trip into Northern Cali with an old friend, as mountaintops, fields of wheat and graffitied trains painted the Indian summer shades of gold and green around me. Soon we fell off the grid as Autumn disappeared into the smell of the night and coniferous plants took the place of the amber colored turning and dying tree's which had surrounded me in the week before in the Pacific Northwest.

I will not say so much about the bizarre adventure that I endured for the month of October and the early weeks of November. I will say that I found my heart there in California this past fall, as painful and uncomfortable as moments of that time may have been. It was not a bad time, and quite frankly the whole period was visually stunning; between the exquisite golden roadside fields off of the freeway, the vivid mountains of Mendo-smelling sweet with pine, distant from the world-and the gorgeous Golden Gate Bridge, spilling me out into San Francisco when I journeyed in and eventually came to live for a bit. I will also say that for the first time in my entire life I did not dress up for Halloween this year, a realization that still stings me to think of... my favorite holiday got away from me this year.

Here is a bit of the story in pictures of the place that owns my heart; California, My Goddamned Graceland.

Papusza Couture in Meuse Magazine: Solace

2012-01-11T19:21:00.000-08:00

Have a look at spread "Solace," which appears in the December issue of Meuse Magazine, photographed by Kylie Faye. The garments are from my Papusza Stain line, available on etsy. Kylie and I collaborated on the art direction of this shoot. Issue can still be purchased online.

Credits are as follows:

Photographer: Kylie Faye
Hair and makeup: Shontelle Vincent
Wardobe and Styling: Kaytee P.
Model: Ryonen
Bird Nest Chocker: Nature's Twist
Hat: Katie Burley
Giant Dreamcatcher: Amra

Life Outside NY Part 5: Seattle, Grunge is Not Dead

2012-01-08T11:12:00.000-08:00

Those of you who have been following Papusza since the early days know that I first launched my couture in Seattle. I embarked upon the journey into the heart of my creative vision in this rainy city... the aesthetic of the grunge era, Seattle at it's forefront, still plays a huge role in my aesthetic, especially when it comes to streetwear. Seattle is a city alive with artistic spirit, and some of the finest craftsmen I have come to know. There also lies a tremendous creative community in Seattle, which I will forever be grateful for.

Before moving to New York, the community I had in Seattle provided me with the support, encouragement and inspiration I needed to have the faith and desire to move my work forward on a much broader scale. Without Seattle, I never would have found the courage to move to New York, and without New York I never would have had all the opportunities to travel and get press and exposure on an international level.

I have hardly had a chance to return to the Emerald City, since moving away over 5 years ago. I was excited to head back this past summer, having the opportunity to work with a couple designer friends of mine, and reconnect with artist friends I have there. After my adventures last spring in SF I headed north, and found a mish mash of my old friends. I won't go into specifics, but the Summer was full of experiences, both positive and negative. Returning helped me remember just how much I have done and how much my work has grown... it also reminded me what a wonderful artist community I still have in that rainy city... although I can only handle the summers there. At this point in my life the grey rainy season is to much for me to bear.

See some photos below capturing some of the adventures I had in Seattle while I was visiting this past Summer...

Papusza Stain/Limbs Pop-up Shop in San Francisco Tomorrow at What It Is... SFC Studios

2011-12-21T19:05:00.000-08:00

Hey everyone! Come support local and do some holiday shopping tomorrow at Papusza friend What It Is... SFC Studios in the Outer Sunset on the SE corner of Judah and La Playa. I'll be selling my Papusza Limbs at their special $20 holiday sale price, as well as pieces from my Papusza Stain Lingerie collection. You can take the N MUNI right there!

And after you enjoy your shopping you can op over the dunes and spend some time chilling on the beach and looking at the beautiful ocean. The forecast tomorrow is warm, clear and sunny-don't miss out! Get some great last minute gifts for the holidays (or a little sexy splurge for yourself!) and some beautiful sunshine while you are at it ♥

Hand Painted Papusza Limbs Now Available and Holiday Sale

2011-12-15T13:58:00.000-08:00

I am now selling hand painted Papusza Limbs on my etsy. Normally they are $40 a pair, but if you order them before December 24th they are on sale for only $35! They make great Christmas gifts, especially for the stylish ladies in your life. These beautiful hand painted stockings are available in 2 sizes and over 50 colors combinations. Please see more details via the etsy link above, and feel free to inquire for more details to kaytee@papuszacouture.com.

Also, don't miss out on my special holiday sale for all my other Limbs. Normally $28 they are on sale through the holidays for only $20 a pair.

If you are looking to keep your hands warm in a stylish way I just added a variety of beautiful gloves to my etsy, and I will be adding many more in the upcoming days. These stylish, hand painted, hand dyed upcycled gloves will keep your fingers warm and your outfit smoking hot.

Papusza Couture Tarot Card Dress Photos by Ali Scarpulla in Black and White

2011-12-14T10:30:00.000-08:00

I love these photos SOOOOO much. From a beautiful shoot I did with Ali Scarpulla of my Tarot Card Dresses in NY. See more photos from the same shoot here. Models are lovely Emily Theobald and Mika Mae Jones.

Papusza Couture for Panic! At The Disco "Get Me Out Of My Mind" Trailer

2011-12-08T08:23:00.000-08:00

Last year I had the privilege of costuming the ladies in film "Get Me Out Of My Mind" about band Panic! At The Disco by brilliant artist/film maker Brian Gonzalez/Taxiplasm. Have a sneak peak at the trailer below, and stay tuned for details on the release of the full production...

P! trailer from brian gonzalez / TAXIPLASM on Vimeo.

Papusza Limbs Holiday Sale!!!

2011-12-07T18:34:00.000-08:00

Looking for stocking stuffers for the fun fabulous ladies in your life? Then why not opt for some beautiful, hand-dyed, cozy tights, available in 5 different colors and 3 different dye patterns? Thick and cozy, nylon-lycra tights are sure to spice up any girls stocking drawer, and put a playful and unique spice into all her favorite winter ensembles. If it couldn't get better then that these babies are on sale through the holidays for just $20 a pair (normally $28)!!!! What a deal!!! They can be shipped anywhere worldwide.

To place an order at the special $20/pair price or for inquiries please email kaytee@papuszacouture.com. See some available colors and dye pattern options here and additional one of a kind limited edition limbs for sale in images below. Hopefully Papusza can help stuff your stockings with some limbs!!!

Please note: any color and dye pattern from above link can be combined.

Art Basel Miami: Papusza Couture featured in Gemma Fleming's TWINS Exhibition

2011-11-25T13:25:00.000-08:00

Those of you who will be in Miami for Basel this year, please be sure to pop by Haired at the Cream Hotel to see the debut of Gemma Fleming's TWINS. The opening reception will be on December 1st from 3-10, but the show will be up through the 4th.

This is a beautiful piece, that we shot almost exactly 2 years ago. I did the costuming for the video, using pieces from Papusza Couture's Oceania Etherea Collection, as well as select pieces from artist/designer/dear friend Mika Mae Jones. I am excited to see the project coming full circle, and finally getting the debut/exposure it deserves. There will be live models/installation for the opening, featuring and costumed in pieces from Papusza Couture's past collections. Gemma will also have a limited addition book available for sale featuring stills from TWINS.

See the teaser below and if you are going to be in Miami for Basel be sure and stop by the opening-it will be well worth your while!

Twins - Teaser from Gemma Fleming on Vimeo.

Papusza Stain on Etsy and Kaytee Papusza featured on All That We've Met

2011-09-21T17:04:00.000-07:00

For those of you that don't know I have recently launched an upcycled lingerie line called Papusza Stain. Stain can be purchased online alongside my hand dyed hosiery, Papusza Limbs, on etsy. See one of the beautiful editorials from one of my shoots with the talented Kylie Faye below.

Also, be sure and check out my recent interview on awesome blog All That We've Met if you are curious to know what I have been up to.

Photo by Kylie Faye, Model-Savori Rardin, Hair-MeriEsther Luce, Makeup-Kerrin Birchenough, Textile stencil by Nathan Parriot, Earrings and Hair piece by Nikki Jacoby Jewelry.

Papusza Stain Debut at Lovefest and 1st Thursday

2011-09-04T08:53:00.000-07:00

I was happy to have been able to have my new lingerie line Papusza Stain at 2 great events this past week. Last weekend I had a tent, shared with my beautiful friend Amra's dreamy dreamcatchers and jewelry, at Lovefest. This past Thursday I had stuff at the artisans market in Occidental Square for 1st Thursday in Seattle. Both events where a blast! See some pictures below and stay tuned for Papusza Stain stores on etsy and Smashing Darling.

Life Outside NY Part 4: San Francisco, A Mad Hatters Tea Party

2011-07-28T09:36:00.000-07:00

Apologies for my lack in keeping my "Life Outside NY" stories up to date. My summer and fall have been filled with mayhem, which all started during my time in San Francisco, where I was for a while during the end of last Spring. Since then I have undergone many experiences and more travels which have captured a great sense of reflection in myself. I have decided that living in Southern California isn't the right move for me now, but I do plan to continue working in LA, and am seriously considering settling down for a bit in Central Cali, though I feel that my nomadic ways have not yet come to a halt, so this may not fully bloom for awhile.

Over the Spring I spent time staying and working with my dear friend Katie Burley, who is an amazing couture milliner, and was recently featured in the SF Gate and the SF Guardian Sunday Style Section. We created a small lingerie and couture millinery collection called Ligatia Curiosa and showed it at the Supperclub SF. See some photos of the show below courtesy of talented photographer Gideon Roh, and stay tuned for editorials of our collection, also shot by Gideon with muse model Magdalene Veen.

There are many more stories of adventure to be told about my times in SF, but I'll those for close friends and lucky randoms...

Kaytee Papusza: Featured Artist in Belle Armoire Magazine, Summer 2011 Issue

2011-05-28T11:03:00.000-07:00

Papusza is the featured artist in the Summer 2011 Issue of Belle Armoire, with a special focus on current work in progress collection Paramicha. The issue will be available after June 1st. For free shipping pre-order yours today!

Below image from "Paramicha." Couture burka by Katie Burley, photo by Elizabeth Raab, Hair by Ariane Garcia, Makeup by Chris Milone, Model-Anelisa Durham.

Life Outside NY Part 3: Hollywoodland of Lost Angeles

2011-05-27T10:11:00.000-07:00

After spending a couple of quiet, nostalgic weeks in Arizona I took a night train to the ocean my heart belongs to; the Pacific. I arrived in LA at dawn, after passing through the surreal windmills of Palm Spring, cookie-cutter Inland Empire suburbanite condos, beautiful broken graffiti painted canals, palm tree urban ruins, creaky morning factories and industrial warehouse spaces. When I arrived in Union Station I felt a calm sense of peace and familiarity that I had missed, being in New York over the years.

My friend Kerstin picked me up from the train station and we went straight to a beach near Santa Monica. We walked along the seaside barefoot, dancing in the waves, the warm wind whipping sand through our hair. As the sky fell down on the water it shimmered a perfect reflection. In seeing the Pacific Ocean I felt overwhelmed by a sense of calm, and remembered that my heart belongs to this sea; a sense of amenity.

Then something amazing happened. Something that has only happened to me at one other time in my life-which was when I was 18 years old, also standing beside the Pacific Ocean (only it was on the Oregon coast the first time it happened). As a stared intently into the fluid, midnight colored sea I saw a smooth, fleshy, rounded back and fin arch up above the surface. It bobbed below and then came back up again about 10 feet away from the first spot, shimmering a brilliant pewter shade in the afternoon sunlight. It was a dolphin. We watched it move across the surface of the sea, lunging up and down, until we couldn't see it anymore. An incredible thing to see, and an omen.

In many Native American tribes the dolphin is a sign of universal harmony, healing, creativity, joy and balance. In Irish history Celts recognized the dolphin as a sign of intelligence, friendship and good luck. In Greek mythology the dolphin is a compatriot of Aphrodite (the goddess of love) and Apollo (the god of sun and light). Universally the dolphin has been celebrated as a sign of good faith. Upon encountering the beauty of that creature swimming through the Pacific in the sun that morning I knew that this was a place I needed to be. I felt at home and that the world was right.

Sure enough the rest of my trip in LA blossomed magically. I had been to LA many times before, in my adolescents, but it never felt like this time. I spent the first couple of days driving around Hollywood with my awesome pal Kerstin, oogling the beautiful old mansions in the hills. Carlo Mancia and Jennifer Clark took me out goth dancing on Sunset. My beautiful sister/muse/darling Mika Jones took me to coffee in Hollywood, and afterwards we strolled down Hollywood Blvd. and walked over the stars. Another dear girlfriend and her pals took me to Venice Beach, which I fell in love with.

A couple of days after my arrival I got to meet my favored author and one of my teenage icons/inspirations, Francesca Lia Block. I have been reading FLB's books since I was 15, and still today they are my favorites. I have a very strong and special connection to her books. I think that the stories she writes have taught me how to express my darkness and heal myself through creating. Many of her stories have saved me, in a sense. In particular "The Hanged Man," was a very special book for me, and I have considered it a favorite since I first read it 11 years ago. I have reread it more times then I can count, and will continue to read it for the rest of my life.

Meeting Francesca was unreal, and I felt an instant kinship to her. I went to her beautiful cottage in Culver City. We sat in the sunlight and spoke of upcoming projects and collaborations. I told her how much her books meant to me, and how inspired I felt. In that afternoon meeting a beautiful thing happened. I was given the opportunity to design a couture collection inspired by my favorite book; The Hanged Man, which will be costuming a fine art film project I will be doing with FLB. I was also given the opportunity to rent a work/live space in her garden, where I will be living starting in September! It is a beautiful space, with high ceilings, tons of space and great light. I am very excited to fill it with my art and couture!

I didn't necessarily expect to fall in love with LA and want to move there, although I guess I'm also really not surprised it happened. One thing I am sure of is that being there reminded me enormously of why I love the West coast. I belong here. You can take the girl outta the West coast, but you can't take the West coast outta the girl. Sometimes she has to come back. Especially for opportunities that are also dreams, becoming real and tangible right in front of me. If you can dream it, you can do it.

I am sad to leave New York, but happy to know I will always be able to return to that brilliant, maddening, incredible Gotham city. More on that later though. I'll be back to New York to say goodbye for real before I land permanently in LA. In the meantime stay posted for my adventures in San Francisco, including a collaborative collection with Katie Burley, and then look for notes about my upcoming summer in Seattle, including a metalware collaborative collection with Nicholas Goodwin.

Photos below by Thomas Chesnot.

Life Outside NY Part 2: Arizona; the Quietest Place on Earth

2011-05-08T14:18:00.000-07:00

As many of you know I have been traveling around the country for the past couple of months. I have fallen behind on my blog updates about my experiences, and have a little catching up to do. I left New York to go traveling mid February. The first stop was Austin, where I enjoyed myself at South by Southwest music festival. You can read a little bit about that experience here.

After my time in Austin I took the train from there to Tucson, Arizona. I lived in Tucson for a couple of years when I first started college. I had not been back to visit since I left and was happy to return to my old stomping ground and see some amazing old friends.

While I was there the 4th Avenue Street Fair was happening. Talented hooper Zoe Rae and I dressed up in crazy Day of the Dead inspired ensembles and made an appearance at the Fair, with a portable store to sell some of my hand dyed tights. We had quite an interesting experience, and where certainly one of the most exciting looking duo's at the fair. My beautiful hat and skirt where made by dear friend and amazing designer Cynthia Smith. See some beautiful photos below taken by Jessica Castillo documenting the adventurous afternoon...

Ligatia Curiosa at the supperclub SF, May 6th

2011-05-02T12:38:00.000-07:00

Katie Burley and Papusza Couture collaborate to make magic again!

After having collaborated on the installation “Siku” at the Scope International Art Fair and work in progress collection “Paramicha” Katie Burley and Papusza Couture collaborate again, making even more magic!

Friday, May 6th come to the Bondage Dinner at the supperclub SF and enjoy “Ligatia Curiosa”-the 2 artists conjoint new collection. Ligatia Curiosa features head pieces, lingerie, bondage wear, and beyond made using taxidermy and bones, inspired by mythical creatures. Enjoy and encounter a fashionable Cyclops or two, a caged Unicorn, conjoined fox and coyote faces fighting at the heart and much, much more. The things that you see will be sure to leave your mind filled with awe and inspiration; whirling with curiosity.

Make reservations here. Also, if you make your reservations before Wednesday you will receive a glass of FREE champagne and mention on Sexploration with Monika!!! Find more info here.

We hope to see you there. If you are not in SF be sure to spread the word about the show to your friends that are in the Bay!!! Those who attend will be in for a strange and otherworldly feast for the eyes.

Be sure to like Katie Burley Couture Millinery and Papusza Couture on facebook!

Work from the designers past collections:

Photo by Elizabeth Raab

Photo by Shannon Cahill

Papusza Couture Design for Laura Milkin's Walking Home Project

2011-04-10T12:52:00.000-07:00

As many of you know I am currently traveling across the United States working on several nomad inspired projects-Paramicha and Nomadsland. As you can imagine I have met many amazing travelers along the way.

In my expedition I was thrilled to meet multi-media interactive performance artist Laura Milkins, who is currently working on the inspiring and compelling Walking Home: stories from the desert to the Great Lakes project. Starting on May 1st Laura will be walking 2000 miles from Tucson, AZ. to Grand Rapids, MI., where she grew up and where her family lives. She will be streaming live online 24/7, and along the way she will be walking and staying with people from all the places she passes through. She will not only be documenting her experience, but she will also be documenting the interesting stories of those she encounters.

I was thrilled when a mutual friend put me in touch with her, and felt inspired by the kindred free spiritedness of her adventure-especially in it being so congruent with my own cross country journey. As part of her travels Laura has asked 3 designers, including myself, to design pieces for her to wear as she walks. I am very excited about the project, and will be designing her a kimono jacket and storytelling dress. Please stay tuned for pictures in the upcoming weeks.

In the meantime show your support to Laura by pledging to Walking Home on Kickstarter (and get some awesome goodies if you are a backer) and liking the Walking Home page on facebook. Also, look for a blog in the upcoming weeks that includes shots of my pieces for Laura, and in May follow her live stream to see her walking Northbound through the desert in Papusza.

LA: Papusza Couture Trunk Show hosted by Francesca Lia Block!

2011-04-09T14:13:00.000-07:00

Inspired by the beauty of the free spirit, come and shop Papusza Couture's Spring/Summer demi collection, Nomadsland. Get great prices and first dibs on fun, one of a kind, handmade dresses, shorts, vests, collars, tops-all made from unique fair trade ethnic fabrics collected from cultures around the world-and hand painted tights. You will also find great prices on hand-dyed Papusza LIMB tights, reworked vintage slips and antique hand painted leather gloves from Papusza's series, Stain. Don't miss out on these beautiful and unique pieces that will be sure to bring a spirited splash to your wardrobe!!!

This trunk show will be hosted by Papusza's favored author Francesca Lia Block. FLB books will be for sale for good prices too!!!

RSVP here and please forward this invite to all your Los Angeles based friends!!!

Papusza Feature on HerHattanNYC and Spring Sale on LIMBS!!!!

2011-03-31T13:39:00.000-07:00

Have a look at the fabulous feature that HerHattan NYC did on Papusza Art Couture. You can read a bit about my current collection, Paramicha, and also find out a bit more about where my art comes from.

Also, I will be doing a Spring Sale on LIMBS starting today, through April 15th, or while supplies last. I have almost every color available, and will be adding a few new ones in the upcoming week including brown, black and wine. Normally they are $28 a pair, but will be available through the 15th for $20 a pair or 2 for $35. They are a very stylish way to transition into your Spring wardrobe, if you are still struggling with chilly winter weather.

Photo by Gemma Fleming

For inquiries please email me at kaytee@papuszacouture.com.

One of a kind limited edition hand painted LIMBS, and other lingerie goodies, will be for sale soon on both my Etsy and Smashing Darling. Stay tuned for these fun, exciting colorful goodies-ideal for the upcoming seasons!

Life Outside NY Part 1: Austin and SXSW

2011-03-26T14:30:00.000-07:00

As many of you know I am on a bit of a leave from New York for a few months. After doing nearly a dozen shows in less then a 6 month period, moving from Brooklyn into Manhattan and barely ever getting to leave the city for things other then work I decided it was time for a break. I have been living in the big apple now for about 4 years, and although I love it enormously I have gotten so caught up in the hustle and bustle of existing there that I had forgotten what life outside New York was like. I am happy to report that the escape has been awakening and I am happy to be on this trip.

My first stop was Austin, where I spent a little more then a month. Got to make some art with my dear friend and associate Desideria Adame and spend some fun times in the great little city of ATX. It was quite a charming place and I will definitely be returning.

The finale week of the trip was South by Southwest, one of the many great film and music festivals in Austin. I saw a ton of awesome bands-my favorite the "Japanese Action Comic Punk" band Peelander-Z. I also got to see a ton of great friends who where visiting for or playing at the festival-a couple of which I hadn't seen in over a year. One of the highlights was taking a ride on a giant mustache seasaw.

See photos of some of my favorite moments below. Stay tuned for more on my adventures of life outside the big city.

Peelander-Z

Moustache Seasaw

My besties!!!!

Hand painted kid leather gloves I made.

Gemma Fleming's "SPARE" Featuring Papusza LIMBS

2011-03-10T12:27:00.000-08:00

In January my darling friend, associate and fellow artist Gemma Fleming debuted her most recent short film, SPARE at HNM's Pain Exhibit. SPARE features performances by Maxine Nienow and Michaeline Sexton, among others. I had the pleasure of custom making Papusza LIMB tights and a mask for the areal portion of the film. LIMBS are for sale, and can be purchased from me if you email me at kaytee@papuszacouture.com or go through my Smashing Darling. For a full list of the talented people involved in creating this piece go here or you can check out SPARE below. Also, look at Gemma's website to see details about her upcoming show in Manhattan, "Not a Fairy Tale."

"SPARE" from Gemma Fleming on Vimeo.

Papusza's Saint Valentine Dress-Winner at Patricia Fields Valentine's Ball!!!

2011-02-27T10:07:00.000-08:00

This year for the Patricia Fields Valentine's Ball I had the honorable pleasure of designing my darling friend, muse and associate Rachel Singer an outfit to wear. Rachel and I decided that Saint Valentine's a la Dia De Los Muertos meets Elizabethan Couture would be a good route to go. I designed her a gown using a beautiful golden vestment fabric (which happens to be the same fabric I bought the first day I moved to New York 4 years ago), which had accents in gold, orange and pink. The dress was strewn with golden chains and grommets, a side tilted steel bone hooped skirt and a bodice that matched the crucifixes on the fabric. I had been conceptualizing this gown for years. Beneath Rachel wore little rose brocaded orange and gold hot pants I made her, and over the bodice a bra adorned with giant flaming heart lights (that lit up!) over each breast. On her head she wore a 10 lb. antler head piece, made using leftover antlers from the piece I recently showed during Basel Miami at The SCOPE International Art Fair. Her makeup was done with the talents of mua Lysette Drumgold.

Rachel was the first prize winner at the ball's costume competition, and received a generous gift certificate to enjoy using at Pat Field's boutique on Bowery. I take this as an enormous compliment, being that I have loved Miss Field's work for years. See some fun photos of us getting Rachel ready for the evening taken by Analisa Deolaso.

Video of Papusza and Burley at SCOPE Night Event

2011-02-11T07:56:00.000-08:00

It was fun.... a little to much fun! Here is video footage documenting the SCOPE Night Event the piece Katie Burley and I made was featured at. You can see the piece, among the debauchery and fun of the night. Catch a glimpse of me hanging with our great model, Ashley Garner, followed by a glimpse of Katie looking gorgeous in fur and feathers! Oh, Miami.... what a trip!

SCOPE Miami : The Night Event Produced by Artists Wanted from Artists Wanted on Vimeo.

VALENTINE'S SALE: PAPUSZA LIMBS FOR LOVE!

2011-02-04T18:16:00.000-08:00

Whether you love or loath Valentine's Day it's always nice to have something bright and colorful to wear on the day of hearts. You can always go extra festive and get a pair in red-which could also be a very and romantic thoughtful gesture as a gift if your heart beats for fashionable lady.

However, if you're not so into the cupid scenario, brighten up your dreary February with beautiful, soft, cozy, hand-dyed Papusza Limb tights, available in Red, Black, Green, Purple, Blue, Magenta and now Teal and Brown (pictures coming soon). These fabulous 100% nylon tights can be made per order in 3 different dye patterns, including bruise, dip dye and ombre.

AND.... They are on sale for only $20 a pair (normally $28) through the 14th. Email me to place orders or with further inquiries. Love your Limbs!!!!

Red in Bruise.

Purple in Dip Dye

Blue in Dip Dye

Magenta in Ombre

Grey in Ombre

Papusza in Tim William's Tripping Video

2011-01-19T09:27:00.000-08:00

Thanks to brilliant styling duo LP Fashion Philosophy Papusza's Mer Gown is in the awesome new Tim William music video Tripping. Check it out! You will see the dress worn by the girl laying on the rooftop right after the 2:00 point. Also, see an amazing piece by dear friend and awesome menswear designer Maleen Dalan worn my Mr. William himself towards the beginning of the video.

I love this video!!! Vote for it to be the winner of MTV's Best Freshmen Video!

More Papusza and Katie Burley at SCOPE International Art Fair

2011-01-13T07:20:00.000-08:00

After showcasing last month at the night event for the SCOPE International Art Fair in Miami Katie Burley and I took a stroll through the fair with model Ashley Garner decked out in pieces from our most recent collection, Paramicha. We passed out fliers promoting the project, and had a fun little guerilla fashion show of our own, creating a little bit of a scene... very appropriate considering the collection we are creating.

I was also excited to see the beautiful photo taken by Elizabeth Raab as the centerfold in the SCOPE catalogue. Showcasing at SCOPE was a very bright note to end 2010 on. I am excited to see things unfolding before me in the upcoming year, for a beautiful 2011.

Papusza: Featured Artist at SCOPE International Art Fair Night Event

2011-01-12T09:14:00.000-08:00

Siku, Inuit for ice, is an installation exhibiting the idea of beauty, nature and pain being frozen in time. It is a mixed media couture installation made using taxidermy, antique lace, fabric, feathers and bones.

To close 2010 I was given an amazing opportunity to showcase a couture installation at the SCOPE International Art Fair Night Event-in Miami during Basel week-as the featured artist. The event I showcased at was produced by Artists Wanted. The finished piece was exuberantly received, and I couldn't have pulled it off without the help of amazing milliner Katie Burley, who, along with being my right hand woman, designed the beautiful Antler Crown worn by "Siku: The Ice Queen."

My piece was defined by a 7 1/2 foot tall and 6 foot in diameter steel, antique lace, bone and antler 3 hooped crinoline. Within in this contraption amazing model Ashley Garner sat, in character all night, wearing a dove feather and calve bone corset, a steel boned antique lace and dove feather Elizabethan collar piece, and antique lace and steel boned petticoat. Katie Burley's beautiful veiled antler and moss crown, as well as her special antler talons, perfectly complimenting the look. Janice Quijano built a beautiful ice-like wig worn under the crown to complete the look operatically.

See pictures, with corresponding photo credits, below.

I wanna say thanks to the following for making this project possible: Katie Burley, Nicholas Goodwin, Val McKinnon, Ashley Garner, Janice Quijano, Rosanna Scimeca, Tom Ryder, Ryan O'Connor, William Etundi, Evan Collier and of course the Land of the Northern Lights-the realm which dreams are made of.

Photos by Shannon Cahill:

Photo by Tomas Loewy.

Papusza LIMBS Shoot With Gemma Fleming

2011-01-03T19:16:00.000-08:00

Winter is a time of snow, grey skies, cold weather and bulky clothes. What better to cheer you up then bright, colorful funky LIMBS? Check out some gorgeous editorials and lookbook images of LIMBS, taken by Gemma Fleming, below.

Papusza has all kinds of fun splashy LIMB colors to cheer up your legs, for only $28 a pair, and through January 15th I am cutting people a deal of 2 for $50. See a complete list of available colors here, and email me if you would like the 2 for $50 deal. I can be reached at kaytee@papuszacouture.com.

And-don't forget-Valentine's Day is right around the corner. Make sure your world is tinted with roses by adorning yourself in them. Find my hand embellished silk Elizabethan Rose Collar here, and place your order now if you want one of these gorgeous statement making pieces, as I am making them in a limited run. Also, check out the limited edition Queen of Heart Rose Corset (seen in images below), which are now available to be made per order.

Photos by Gemma Fleming
Hair by David Lopez
Makeup by Jen Lombardo
Models: Jenee and Sarah @ mc2mm
All vintage lingerie hand dyed by Papusza. Please contact kaytee@papuszacouture.com to purchase or special order unique hand dyed items.

Elizabethan Rose Collar and Queen of Hearts Rose Corset

MEGA SALE!!! Ring in 2011 Rocking Papusza Style!

2010-12-26T08:23:00.000-08:00

Excited for all that is to come in 2011, Papusza is putting select pieces from numerous collections on sale for less then half of their original price!!! Please see sale pieces below, and email me with any questions you might have about measurements, price negotiations, and setting up possible fittings. Happy New Year to you!!! Why not ring it in wearing something fabulous!!!

Bluebird Dress-Now $150 (Originally $350). Faux fur, crepe cotton, satin, lace and reconstructed lingering. Size 2-4.

Neopolitan Cupcake Dress-Now $200 (Originally $500). Satin and tulle. Size 4.

Taxidermy Butterfly Case Dress-Now $275 (Originally $600). Tulle, satin, feather butterfly and bone. Size 4.

Swandive-Now $240 (Originally $500). Tulle, silk and jersey. Size 4.

Paramicha at the Wearable Art Awards

2010-12-24T09:36:00.000-08:00

I am excited to announce that 2 looks from Paramicha, including Katie Burley's couture burka's and my couture tarot gowns, will be exhibited in the 2011 Wearable Art Awards! We will be showing the "Death Card" look and the "High Priestess." Find beautiful photos taken by Elizabeth Raab below, as well as the Artist Statement for Paramicha. Makeup by Chris Milone, hair by Ariane Garcia and model Anelisa Durham.

Paramicha

by Papusza Couture With Couture Millinery by Katie Burley

“Paramicha: (noun) Gypsy fairy tales, told for the skill of the storyteller.”

Paramicha-a work in progress-is a collection of wearable art and, made primarily using tarot cards, incorporating an eclectic variety of fair trade ethnic fabrics, as well as heirloom objects and cultural symbols, in reflection of the traveling spirit. The garments, an ode to the Roma (aka Gypsies), include tarot cards from Aleister Crowley’s Thoth and Tarot of the Cat People decks. The beaded, couture burka was created with the intent of limiting verbal communication so that the cards may become the sole messenger.

Holiday Dress Sale!!! Kinsella Dress and Bolero-50% Off!!!

2010-12-15T15:11:00.000-08:00

Attend all your fabulous holiday events looking smashing in this fun and colorful tartan plaid cocktail dress with matching bolero! Skirt of dress and bolero are made of silk taffeta, and the bodice of dress is in black sequence. Dress zips up the back and has tulle crinoline built into it for incredible volume in the skirt. AND... if it couldn't get any better it is on sale through the holidays for only $200, half of it's original price!!! This piece has a stretch bodice and can fit a size 4-6. Please email me with any inquiries at kaytee@papuszacouture.com.

Would look amazing with LIMBS in magenta, on sale through December for only $20 a pair (normally $28)!

CUTE DRESSES!!! Perfect for Holiday Parties!! On Sale!!!

2010-12-12T15:40:00.001-08:00

Are you looking for the perfect dress to wear to all your fun holiday parties during this festive season??? Do you want to avoid crazy malls and department store shopping scenarios? Well if you are, come to Papusza!!! Select, handmade, one of a kind darling cocktail dresses will be available for sale through the Papusza in Birdland blog during the month of December. All are handmade in Brooklyn with love by Kaytee P, and will be sure to make a unique splash and stand apart in all your festive party scenarios. Ring into the New Year right, and in very Papusza style. Please feel free to email any inquiries about sizing, etc. to kaytee@papuszacouture.com.

Today's Featured Holiday Dress Sale Item: Lolli Babydoll Dress

Baby doll dress with white tulle underskirt. Top skirt is black shantung silk with silver metallic net fabric bow/bustle overlay. Magenta velvet on top with cap sleeves. Ties in back with strips of black raw shantung silk.

Size: XS, Fits 0-2
Special Sale Price $250 (Originally $400).

Above photo by Kat Bret. Dress worn in photo with cape by Sirius.

Would look great with Cloud Limbs also on sale for a special holiday price!!!

Above photo by Gemma Fleming.

Papusza Limbs Tights Holiday Sale

2010-12-09T07:59:00.000-08:00

Photo by Gemma Fleming.

Looking for stocking stuffers for the fun fabulous ladies in your life? Then why not opt for some beautiful, hand-dyed, cozy tights, available in 7 different colors and 3 different dye patterns? Thick and cozy, nylon-lycra tights are sure to spice up any girls stocking drawer, and put a playful and unique spice into all her favorite winter ensembles. If it couldn't get better then that these babies are on sale through the holidays for just $20 a pair (normally $28)!!!! What a deal!!! They can be shipped anywhere worldwide.

To place an order or for inquiries please email kaytee@papuszacouture.com. See available colors and dye pattern options below. Hopefully Papusza can help stuff your stockings with some limbs!!!

Please note: any color and dye pattern can be combined.

All photos by Gemma Fleming.

Color: Amethyst & Dye Pattern: Dip Dye

Color: Sky & Dye Pattern: Dip Dye

Color: Magenta & Dye Pattern: Ombre

Color: Clover & Dye Pattern: Ombre

Color: Rust & Dye Pattern: Ombre

Color: Cloud & Dye Pattern: Ombre

Color: Red & Dye Pattern: Bruise

Color: Red & Dye Pattern: Ombre Over Black

Papusza Costume Factory

2010-11-10T04:59:00.000-08:00

October was a busy month in Papuszaland! I made 14 Halloween costumes in October. the spectrum was broad-from birds, to sailor baby suits, to My Little Ponies, to Peter Pan. I even made a Christine robe, recreating the one in the Phantom of the Opera! Here is a sneak peak of some of the fun Halloween costumes I made this year!!!

Peter Pan

Christine Robe-Phatom of the Opera

My Little Pony Hoodie

Bird of War-It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia

Angry Bird

Sailor

Dylan does not appear to like his costume, haha!

Melissa looking Smoking in the Aunty Entity Dress I made her!!

Papusza Couture Conjoined Gown on the Stilted Siamese Twin Muses

2010-10-14T07:57:00.000-07:00

A couple of weeks ago the fairytale of the Stilted Siamese Twins began. The fairytale was born organically, but the candy colored conjoined dress was dreamlike on the stilted sister, connected at the hip, and a mirror image of opposing colors.

When I created the dress in September (initially for swing girls at Soiree) I had the image of Victorian Valentine's in my mind... you may know the type; filled with birds, hearts, bowing fellows and giggling doll-like girls. The conjoined dress was made using shantung silk, which I hand dyed or feather appliqued heart-like patterns on around the chests, and tons of hand dyed tulle. The hearts are important because as I made it I thought a lot about how conjoined twins often share organs of the body, which often leads to the end of one or both of their lives. I also think heart/love is important in drawing 2 being close together (literally), as the organic process of being born connected would certainly create a closeness of hearts. In contrast, the gowns were created in opposing colors, to represent different personalities and allow them their own individuality.

I was so happy when amazing performers Ali Luminescent and Christine Geiger (also and awesome makeup artist) wore the dress on stilts, in character, to perform at very exciting fantastical party. That was the night that the "Cotton Candy Flavored Victorian Siamese Twin Stilting Act" was born. The ladies did a beautiful job with their own hair, wigs and accessories, to perfectly compliment the dresses.

The party was in honor of several very important affairs; primarily Cynthia Von Buhler's birthday. Amanda Palmer and Neil Gaiman where also guests of honor at the affair, and toasted their engagement. This was very exciting to me as I love Amanda's music and have been reading Neil's graphic novels since I was 11.

I was sad that I was unable to attend the fabulous party. I was happy that so many fantastic people captured photos of it. There was a floor full of mermaids covering the bathroom tiles and in the tub, CVB wore a mer-tail on a bed in the center of the room all night, there was an amazing merry go ride for party goers to play on, and Amanda Palmer performed live! I would have loved to have been there. There was even an incredible machine, full of otherworldly scenes, created by Empire S.N.A.F.U.-see more beautiful work here.

I plan to continue developing the character of the Stilted Siamese Twins. Stay tuned for more projects in the upcoming months.

In the meantimes feast your eyes on some beautiful shots from the party...

Photo by Mark Hoffman

Siamese Twins chat with Cynthia Von Buhler (on bed in tail), Molly Crabapple and Larisa Fuchs. Photo by Paul Weiner.

Photo by Paul Weiner.

The twins among the party goers. Photo from Ali Luminescent.

The girls play with the Empire S.N.A.F.U. machine. Photo from Ali Luminescent.

Amanda Palmer performing. Photo by Scott Dakota.

This was the bathroom!!! Photo by Scott Dakota.

Toasting Amanda Palmer and Neil Gaiman's engagement. Photo by Paul Weiner.

Cheers! Photo by Scott Dakota.

Papusza Couture Installation at Soiree

2010-10-08T09:08:00.000-07:00

In September I had the pleasure of doing an inspiring couture installation at Soiree, a lovely intimate party, thrown in a DUMBO loft by William Etundi. The project was a wonderful opportunity to exhibit my creative vision, and I was happy to be able to present my aesthetic to such an awesome and appreciative group of people. I also was able to have a gaggle of lovely dolls dressed in past Papusza Couture creations flitting about at the event. They were all a site for sore eyes!!

The concept of the installation was inspired by Tim Burton's Alice in Wonderland, and I did 3 gowns. One was made using clock parts and a beautiful woven blue vestment silk, another was a gown a la Red Queen, with a giant dip dyed red tutu, covered in small red roses, and the third was made for 2 to wear... a candy colored shantung silk gown conjoined at the hip, covered in peacock feathers. The project involved very large tulle skirts for each look, and total for the installation I went through 300 yards of tulle!!!

See some of my favorite pictures from the event below. The performers had their hair done by Ariane Garcia and makeup was done by Tiffani Argentina and Ana Perdita. Gorgeous little leather gloves were provided by Lamia Design.

Red Queen Dress Worn by Kayla. Photo by Ariane Garcia.

Clock Dress worn by Lucy. Photo by Ariane Garcia.

Siamese Peacock Twin Gown worn by Stephanie and Eva. Photo by Christine Creiger.

Rachel Singer wearing Papusza from the Origama Pink Collection, FW '09. Photo by Sarah Sparkles.

Ali Luminescent wearing The High Priestess from the upcoming collection Paramicha, dresses a la tarot. Photo by Sarah Sparkles.

Eugina in Neopolitan Cupcake dress from Origama Pink Collection. Photo by Mitchell Parsons.

YaY!!! More Red Queen and the party people. Photo by Mitchell Parsons.

Sandhi wearing Papusza fringed bustier and tutu on the lyra. Photo by Mitchell Parsons

FUNNNN!!! Photo by Mitchell Parsons.

Photo by Victoria Collier

Behind the scenes. Phot by Victoria Collier.

Basking in my tulle after weeks of creating with it. Photo by Victoria Coller.

Papusza Couture on Sale for Halloween on Smashing Darling!

2010-10-02T09:03:00.000-07:00

Halloween for Papusza is what Christmas is for Santa! Every year I grow overwhelmed with excitement as October gets closer. Making Halloween costumes is one of my favorite things to do. Every year I enjoy creating magical costumes for others and myself to wear. This year I have a very extravagant costume I am creating for myself, and have also already started getting orders for fun custom costumes. From Peter Pan to the Birds of War, among many others, Papusza's house of birdland will be a fun factory of magic and spook this year!!!

In celebration of this magical holiday I am happy to be putting certain fine art costume couture items in my boutique on Smashing Darling on SALE for half of their original price! Please take a look-you might find something special and unique to make your costume this year really stand apart.

I am also still taking orders for special deals on Custom Halloween Costumes. Don't forget-it is, after all, October... don't wait until the last minute if you need something amazing to wear on the last eve of the month!!! I promise, I can make you something that you won't see anyone else wearing or find at a mass produced costume super store!

Happy Fall to all... and I am very excited to celebrate a extra spooky and magical Halloween this year!!!

Photo by Kat Bret. Neopolitan Cupcake dress for SALE in Smashing Darling Boutique!!!!!!!!!

Amazing Custom Halloween Costumes!!!!!

2010-09-27T08:44:00.000-07:00

Bloody Crow. Photo by Elizabeth Raab.

I am making custom Halloween costumes this year for a very special deal! I am making costumes for men, women and children. Adults costumes start at $100 and children's costumes will start at $50. I have made all kinds of gorgeous costumes in the past and am capable of making you a costume for anything you could possibly imagine. I also have a great imagination and am happy to work with you to help come up with the perfect thing for you to be for Halloween this year.

Please feel free to email me with any inquiries at kaytee@papuszacouture.com. I suggest placing your order asap, as October is just around the corner, and is bound to be busy! This special price will only be available through October 9th. Starting October 10th I will be charging my normal rate for Halloween costumes.

Here are some samples of Halloween and other costumes I have made in the past. There are many more on my website.

Bloody Swan. Photo by Elizabeth Raab

Giant Bloody Cunt, my costume last year.

Narcissister in Siamese Dress. Photo by Jonathon Murphy.

Max-Where the Wild Things Are.

Pheasant. Photo by Bethany Antikajian.

Narcissister in Papusza Couture at Bloody Mary

2010-09-20T14:46:00.000-07:00

Although I was to busy to attend, I was happy to learn that Narcissister performed in the Marie Antoinette style couture costume gown I created for her at Susanne Bartsch's new party, Bloody Mary. See pics below from the performance at the party, as well as Narcissister in the gown at my show in New Faux in April.

Above: Narcissister at Bloody Mary (photo from Scallywag & Vagabond). Below: Narcissister in New Faux in April (photo by Jon Murphy).

Papusza Couture in NY Daily News

2010-09-08T07:31:00.000-07:00

Thanks to dear friend/costumer/stylist/amazing person Jeff Strudivant Papusza seagull and mink taxidermy stole/skirt appeared a centerfold in NY Daily News yesterday (worn as stole). The garment was used in the wardrobe for the vampire film The Blood Junkies, which is what the article in the Daily News was featuring. It's always fun to see Papusza pieces in the papers, especially when it's for vampire flicks!

See the centerfold below. Papusza worn is on the right page, far left, and can also be seen several other places in the photos.

The Sea of Moon; Photos by Ali Scarpulla. An Ode to Iceland.

2010-09-06T15:17:00.001-07:00

Those of you who have been following my work for more then a year know all about my experience at "Iceland Fashion Week." It was exactly one year ago that I found myself in the depth of it-and the waters were chaotic. I won't get into the who, when, where or what's of it here. I'm saving the indulgences of my full story for close personal friends and people from the press-although someday, if I ever write a book about all the bizarre things that have occurred in my life, the Iceland FW story will very likely be included.

In the meantime, feel free to read the blog I wrote upon returning from the odd-and slightly traumatic-trip here. You should also check out Bill Van Meter's artile for New York Magazine-which is the most accurate coverage of what actually went down last September in Iceland. Also, please note that I am quoted as wanting to "barf on my face five times" in the article-which is really something I said and, in hindsight, quite hilarious.

Those of you who know me well know about my obsession with Iceland, from the time that I was a very young girl. You also might know about how incredibly broken up and upset I was upon returning from "IFW" last fall. It was one of the most difficult times of my creative career-while also being one the most important learning experiences I have ever had as an artist. I grew very emotionally attached to the collection that I made to show there, but unfortunately was not able to. That being said, the past year has provided me with a handful of wonderful opportunities to show and talk about the story behind the collection, entitled Oceania Etherea-inspired by the birds that I dreamt lived at the bottom of the ocean around the beautiful land of glaciers of lava rocks that look like moons.

I yearned for Iceland when I was child, before I really even understood what it was. As an adult and an artist through my early 20's I always said that going to Iceland was the number one priority on my list of places I had to go in life. I lived the dream, and it was not what I expected. Yet being there, experiencing the light of the North, seeing the land, feeling the sun so high in the sky, smelling the air from that sea... it made me understand Iceland really was a home to my spirit, in a way that no other place ever will be. Even after living the dream, turned nightmare, I yearn for this beautiful land made of fire, ice, sky and sea.

A few weeks back I was given the opportunity to shoot some pieces from the Oceania Etherea collection with amazing photographer Ali Scarpulla, and muse model Mika Jones. The photos came out surreal, and painted a sliver of a vivid picture of the dream that I had initially hoped Iceland would be. Seeing them, and remembering, I can finally say the Iceland debacle has finally come full circle. I think I need to go back though, but just for fun this time...

Above; photo of me taken by Rachel, last September in Iceland on the rocks outside the "Church of Wishes."

Paramicha Tarot Card Dresses-Photo by Ali Scarpulla

2010-08-29T10:59:00.000-07:00

I had the wonderful pleasure of working with amazing photographer Ali Scarpulla on a shoot using a couple of my tarot card dresses from the Paramicha Collection. Beautiful models Mika and Emily did an amazing job portraying the characters of the shoot flawlessly. Couldn't even dream of a more ideally serene portrayal of these dresses. Eyeball earrings handmade by Desideria Adame.

McQueen Tribute Show Photos by Gemma Fleming

2010-08-25T07:14:00.001-07:00

Here are some of my favorite behind the scenes and runway shots from the IMTA Alexander McQueen Tribute show I presented in a few weeks ago. These were taken by talented photographer, and dear friend, Gemma Fleming. To see all of the photos visit the Smashing Darling Blog here.

With 2 of my favorite girls, stylist Rachel Singer (left), photographer Gemma Fleming (center) and moi (right).

Rachel, works the minks taxidermy skirt and Italian leather bodice.

Finishing touches...

I adore hologram that McQueen did with Kate Moss. It was kinda perfecting seeing my garments walking beside it.

Papusza Couture @ Alexander McQueen Tribute Show

2010-08-05T09:31:00.000-07:00

I was thrilled to have the opportunity to show some of my pieces, both from older collections and my upcoming Paramicha collection, for an Alexander McQueen tribute show last week. The show was put on by Adam's Group Productions for IMTA, and was held in the midtown Manhattan ballroom on July 28th.

Taxidermy Seagull Outfit. There is a bustle on the back of mink skirt made of wings, and bone and feather embellishing bodice, from the same seagull as wings.

Ghostcape.

Vampella Dress.

McQueen is an extremely honorable person to tribute. Those of you that have been following my work might know of my great love of his beautiful collections, and what a huge inspiration he was to me. I know many other young designers feel the same way. In honor of him I showed 2 of the dresses from my Paramicha collection, which I will be fully debuting in the fall. I also showed 2 dresses from my recent Oceania Etherea Collection, including one made of mink and taxidermied seagull parts, and the long white ghostcape, strewn with peacock feathers. The fifth piece I showed was my Vampella dress, handmade of vintage Italian lace from the 1940's.

High Priestess Dress.

The Paramicha dresses are very dear to me. A series of dresses made of a deck of tarot cards is part of this collection, and I showed 2 of these dresses in the McQueen tribute show. The "High Priestess Dress" is a personal favorite, made of fair trade hand woven silk from Pakistan, tulle hand dyed by me, and a selected 7 cards, in reflection of the traditional tarot Ellipse spread. In honor of McQueen I made a gown based around the "Death Card." The Death Card itself sits in a collar piece, which also includes the Moon Card, among other cards encased in the skirt. Personally, the moon represents peace to me, which is why I thought it was appropriate to use in the gown. I used 5 cards in the "Death Card" dress, in reflection of the five card spread.

"Death Card" Gown.

Please stay tuned to see more tarot card dresses, among other pieces from the Paramicha Collection.

Most importantly, it was very lovely to be able to tribute McQueen with my pieces. I am still so deeply saddened by the loss of his exquisite works in the fashion world. He was a huge inspiration, and I always looked forward to seeing what he would come up with each season. We were lucky to have him as a part of history in our time.

Papusza Couture in Bambi Magazine

2010-07-18T11:10:00.000-07:00

I was happy to see shots of Mika Jones from the shoot that awesome photographer Magdalena Olek did with my dresses in Bambi Magazine, Issue 2. My dresses are paired with the gorgeous millinery of Velvet Antler. The shots were taken in Brooklyn in April. I was in love with them and am so glad the story got picked up. To view the images go to editorial #3 in Issue 2 of Bambi, via link above. Also, print copies are available per order.

Coney Island Mermaid Parade Magic!!

2010-07-05T05:54:00.000-07:00

A couple weeks ago I had the pleasure of making costumes for and partaking in the magical Mermaid Parade, 2010, at Coney Island. Although I had never had the pleasure of walking in the parade before I had always loved the idea of it, being an avid lover of all things "mer," since my childhood growing up close to the Oregon coast.

I was excited to be in the parade as part of a group organized by dear friends Ali Schmitz (who won "Best Mermaid" last year) and Justin AuBuchon. The concept was inspired by a beautiful illustration, including a queen being pulled on of a chariot of seahorses, with fluffy white clouds floating behind her. I made 3 "cloud dresses" for the parade, including a storm cloud, a serene cloud and a rainbow cloud (which was the one I wore in the parade!!).

Here are some photos of the magic. I am already very excited for next years parade!!

(Above) Me as a rainbow cloud!!

(Above) Laura dancing on the beach after the parade as the serene cloud.

(Above) Melinda was the storm cloud. I don't have any pictures of her in her dress, but her makeup looks awesome.

(Above) Darling friends Ali and Justin on stilts leading the way!!

(Above) Lovely photo taken on the boardwalk after the parade by Jessica Amaya.

Papusza Couture & Maleen Dalan in the New York Post on Rachel Singer!!!

2010-06-21T09:04:00.000-07:00

Was exciting to see dear friend and amazing stylist/artist Rachel Singer in Sunday's New York Post wearing Maleen Dalan and Papusza Couture garments together! Read the article 'Taking Back The Night' in Sunday's Post to read full article about Rachel and see more pictures. Also, see Rachel's NY Post online style guide here, wearing her Maleen and Papusza look. Also, kudos to talented super Adam Maclay and Lysette Drumgold for doing a breathtakingly beautiful job on Rachel's hair and makeup!!! Big love to all involved!!!

Miss Rachel looking magical in beautiful headpiece and top by Maleen Dalan and tea stained antique lace skirt by Papusza Couture!

Sang Bleu 5, Featuring Papusza Article, Now For Sale in NYC

2010-06-16T07:26:00.000-07:00

"Papusza's methods are resoundingly odd, but her creations are subtle and far from a horror show. Unless some of the embellishments are pointed out, one might not even notice that a large bead is actually a pigeon skull dangling from a braid. Her work melds fashion to fine art and to a display at a natural history museum."

-Excerpt from "The Bird Woman of Brooklyn," an article by William Van Meter in Sang Bleu Journal

Sang Bleu 5 is now available for purchase in New York. It can also be purchased at numerous locations, and on the web here, where you can also find a complete list of locations to purchase Sang Bleu in New York, Europe and Japan.

Photo taken by Kat + Duck in Paris before the issue was released in the states. Portrait of me taken by Alex O'Neill.

Papusza Couture in ComplexD (UK)

2010-06-14T08:42:00.000-07:00

Fabulous stylists Erica Lavelanet and David Pena at LP Fashion Philosophy pulled some of my pieces for an editorial spread titled "I'm With the Band," featuring Street Hero, in the launch issue of ComplexD Magazine. See below the fun blue velvet romper and sexy green spandex mini dress, both pieces from my Oceania Etherea Collection, in this fabulous editorial.

Papusza in Paper Magazine (Greece) with Kage Handbags!

2010-06-10T16:43:00.000-07:00

Stylist Tara Denman pulled my Papusza Couture Vampella Dress (made of beautiful antique Italian lace passed down to my mother from my grandmother, and then to me) for the look book shoot for Kage Handbags this Spring. I was so happy with how Tara styled the dress, and the photos came out beautifully.

I was even more happy when the photos got published in a Greek high fashion magazine called Paper Magazine, in the article "All That Bags," about Kage Handbags.

Photos by Emiliano Granado
Hair and makeup by B. Brill

Papusza Organic Textile Exhibited in Stockholm

2010-05-30T15:43:00.000-07:00

A couple months ago awesome Swedish designer Anja Hynynen asked me if I would contribute a piece to the organic textile project she is putting together to showcase in Sweden later this summer. The textile will debut at Ekovaruhuset in the Old Town of Stockholm. See a picture and description of my contribution below and stay tuned for further details.

TITLE:

This Is What My Heart Looks Like

DESCRIPTION:

"This Is What My Heart Looks Like" is a textile created using antique lace and various organic materials. It is a personal representation of who I am as not only an artist, but also as an emotional being, and how this is connected to my creative work. Organic materials in this piece include flicker feathers, bird bones, a peacock feather and the materials used to stain the fabric. The heart shaped and border stains were created using strawberries, blackberries and beets.

This textile was handmade with love in Brooklyn, New York.

Magdalena Olek Photos of Papusza Couture in Polland Fashion Week

2010-05-28T11:34:00.000-07:00

About a month and a half ago, just before the New Faux fashion show, I had the pleasure of working with talented Polish photographer Magdalena Olek. She took these stunning pictures of pieces from my Oceania Etherea collection and the millinery of Valvet Antler. I absolutely love the way the photos turned out. They were shot in Brooklyn, and I feel the way she captured the airiness of the garments with the floral petals around them is breathtaking.

In May Magdalena showed these beautiful images in a gallery during Polish Fashion Week. I hope to be in Poland for fashion week at some point in the future...

A big warm special thanks to models Mika Jones and Kristin Quinn for doing such a beautiful job modeling!! And of course a big thanks to the amazing Magdalena Olek for involving my dresses in her gorgeous photography!!!!!!

Shots of Mika in Papusza Couture and Velvet Antler

Shots of Kristin in Papusza Couture and Velvet Antler

Chelsea Hotel Art Show Pictures

2010-05-27T11:47:00.000-07:00

Here are some images of my showing at Desire Group Art Show at the Chelsea Hotel last weekend.

Photo by Maleen Dalan

Photo by Kati Williams

Photo by Maleen Dalan. Collaboration Project with pieces from my collections, Maleen Dalan's menswear (on upper right hand side of bed) and sculpture and jewelry of Desideria Adame. They were a pleasure to collab with!

Photo by Kati Williams. Vagina sculpture by Desideria Adame.

Photo by Kati Williams High Priestess Tarot Card Dress

Photo by Maleen Dalan

Photo by Kati Williams. This dress is called (lucas) the star. It is made to represent the star tarot card (with the card sewn into the dress), as well as ultrasounds and egg shells. It is in honor of my new nephew, Lucas, who was born the Monday following the show.

Photo by Maleen Dalan.

Photo by Kati Williams. (lucas) the star details.

Papusza Limbs at PUHA in the Netherlands!!!

2010-05-25T08:18:00.000-07:00

I am happy to announce that Papusza Couture Limb tights can now be purchased at PUHA Boutique in the Netherlands! They will make their debut this Friday at a fun special shopping party at PUHA called the Full Moon, invitation below. If you know anyone in Utrecht tell them to go check them out!! Also, for those of you not located in Utrecht, please keep in mind you can always custom order tights directly from me.

Papusza Couture Showcasing at New Faux!

2010-05-18T08:06:00.000-07:00

Here is the fashion show!

Show filmed by Alex Mercado
Show Production/Art Direction by Gemma Fleming and Kaytee Papusza
TWINS by Gemma Fleming
Graphics by ADV Associates

See further credits below. BIG thanks to everyone involved!!

PAPUSZA COUTURE/GEMMA FLEMING from MPFILMS on Vimeo.

Crew
Oceania Etherea by Papusza Couture presented featuring Gemma Fleming's animation TWINS
Designer Papusza Couture (www.papuszacouture.com)
Art Direction by Gemma Fleming and Kaytee Papusza
Production by Gemma Fleming and Kaytee Papusza
Stage Manager Allison Bayles
Fashion Director/Wardrobe Stylist Rachel Singer
Stylist Assistant Megan Luby
Music Justin Aubuchon
Animation ADV Associates

Hair/Makeup
Key Hairtsylist Calli Carvajal
Hairstylist Adam Maclay
Hairstylist Jeanise
Hairstylist Assistant Ana Perdita
Key Makeup Artist Lysette Drumgold
Makeup Artist Ana Perdita
Makeup Artist Erika Lee
Makeup Artist Mia Bauman
Makeup Artist Tiffani Argentina

Performers
Two-headed Dream Narcissister (headpiece made by performer)
Trapeze Ali Luminscent
Contortionist Ekaterina
Queen Kate Verb
Queen's Hair Twin Mika Jones

Models
Denise Dietrichs
Eugina Williams
Forest of Gotham
Ivy Challis
Jess Patrick
Kerstin Porter
Kristin Quinn
Lisa Landino
Polina Kohan
Rebecca Holdridge
Val MacKinnon
Yumii Rosario

Accerssories
Artisan Jewelry Desideria Adame (http://www.desideriaadame.blogspot.com/)
Crochet Chain Jewelry Sirius* Lux (http://siriuslux.com/)
Feather Millinery Velvet Antler (http://velvetantlernyc.com/home.html)
Footwear Fluevog (http://www.fluevog.com/)
Gloves Lamie Akar (http://lamiadesign.com/)
Eye Patches Jade Chiu (http://jadechiu.com/)
Tights Papusza Limbs by Papusza Couture (http://www.papuszacouture.com/)

Papusza Couture at Chelsea Hotel May 21st and 22nd

2010-05-17T08:39:00.000-07:00

I will be showing at the Chelsea Hotel on May 22nd between 11 am and 7 in Desire Group Art Show. My work will be part of a collaborative "bed/surreal dream" installation created by myself, and my favorite person to collaborate with, artisan Desideria Adame. This installation will include one of the designs of brilliant menswear designer Maleen Dalan. Pieces from my Oceania Etherea Collection will be exhibited among this installation, as well as a hand dyed and appliqued tapestry, combined with the beautiful sculpture and jewelry work of Desideria Adame. I will also debut my series of tarot card dresses at the Desire Show. These dresses will be part of my S/S 2011 Paramicha Collection, an ode to fairytales in the land of gypsy punk rock. This will be a sneak peak at some of the couture I will be showcasing this fall.

New Faux Behind Scenes Video and BIG THANKS!!!

2010-05-05T12:59:00.000-07:00

I'm not the type of artist that takes showcasing my work with a grain of salt. When I do it, I do it all the way. Showcasing my Oceania Etherea collection, in conjunction with Gemma Fleming's TWINS animation, at New Faux was no exception. Gemma and I put a lot of work into preparing for this event, and I wanan give a huge shout out and special thanks to her for all her hard work, creative input and collaboration. Gemma Fleming is an amazing person to work with on every level, and brings it 100%. If you ever have the opportunity to do a project with her you cannot pass it up.

Our showcasing at New Faux came together beautifully, after weeks of me making myself insane, depriving myself of sleep, and tweaking the details down to a pinpoint. This is a collection I have been wanting to show since Iceland, and have gone through a world of emotional turmoil, death, life and rebirth with. I was glad to see it finally alive and in action. I was also very happy to showcase the gown I custom made for performance artist Narcissister at New Faux, modeled by the creative and inspiring Narcissister herself.

I want to give a huge and special thanks to everyone involved in this show and who helped make it happen. Also, I want to give a huge special thanks to Kae Burke and House of Yes for providing us with a platform to showcase creatively, and inviting us to be a part of this magical event.

Below is a short behind the scenes documentation shot by model and awesome Papusza muse Eugina Williams. Stay tuned for more great pictures and video of the full Papusza Couture/Gemma Fleming showcase.

New Faux Fashion Show, April 30th!

2010-04-21T08:36:00.000-07:00

Papusza Couture and Gemma Fleming will be presenting Papusza Couture's Oceania Etherea collection combined with Gemma's newest series the TWINS animation on April 30th at the House of Yes New Faux fashion show. Papusza is excited to be showing alongside a sleigh of other talented and innovative New York designers in a showcasing that will truly be a theatrical and unique explosion of the senses.

Papusza Couture and Gemma Fleming are working together to create a showcase that will be exhibited around the center of a bottom of the ocean tea party being taken over by hair, coral and taxidermy. Performers will be presenting the garments via contortion, trapeze, dance and avant garde theater performance art combined with multi-media. Gemma Fleming's TWINS animation will make a debut, and used as a medium of presentation of the collection during the show. Papusza's collection will be accessorized by artisan jewelry made by Desideria Adame, crochet collars by Sirius* Lux and millinery by Velvet Antler.

Hope to see you there!

Hand Dyed Tights! Custom orders! As featured in NY Times!

2010-03-29T09:25:00.000-07:00

As seen in the New York Time with Alexander Mcqueen on Ladyfag-Green dipped tights

I'm the kinda girl who keeps a paper skeleton under my bed and likes to sleep close to taxidermy. That doesn't mean that bright colorful fun legs don't make me happy though. When I wear my Papusza Limbs tights there is never a doubt that I will have a great day. Because we are all so different and different limbs make different ladies faces light up I have decided to start taking orders for custom Papusza Couture Limbs hand dyed tights.

Limbs have been featured in the Style Section of the New York Times and on the Uniform Project.

As seen on the Uniform Project

Limbs can be dyed up to 3 colors per pair and are available in grey, true blue, navy blue, purple, kelly green, orange, red and magenta. They are available in small and large. Embellished or lace limbs available at a higher cost. Please inquire for details. They can be dyed in ombre, dipped, two tone, stripes or an organic bruise like pattern. They start at $28.

To order a pair of custom limbs please email me with desired color(s), size and pattern; kaytee@papuszacouture.com.

Lace tights in blue and green two tone, blue in bruise pattern.

Dipped green and white tights

Blue tights in ombre stripe

Papusza Couture First Show Documentary by Hamish Chappell

2010-03-24T10:13:00.000-07:00

For those of you who knew me years ago back in Seattle when I first started Papusza Couture this should be rather entertaining. The show was at the Columbia City Theater, and I will forever be thankful to all the amazing people that were in my life at that time. Without all of them none of what I have created (along with many others) over the past 5 years would exist. If you were there, you may even see yourself sitting in the audience or helping me queue models.

The documentary is in black and white, but the collection of dresses I showed was very vibrant with color. This was a collection very true to who I was at the time as a woman in my early twenties. An ode to my youth, a sleigh of dresses inspired by vintage, punk rock, riot grrl and being a bad ass rebel chick whose not afraid to stand out in the crowd.

You can see in my response to the show and expressions on my face this was one of the loveliest moments of my life; the start of a new chapter. Since then many more new chapters have opened, including establishing my art and life in New York. I look forward to what the future holds, so full of possibilities. Seeing this video makes me remember my dresses are my lucky charms and it is a beautiful day to be hopeful.

Part One;

Part Two;

Miss Maleen Dalan to New York Please!!!

2010-03-22T10:26:00.000-07:00

Please check out the beautiful works of my lovely friend Maleen Dalan. She is a Norway based menswear designers, and one of my favorite designers at that. She is also an amazingly sweet person. Her menswear is so beautiful and well crafted. It really blows my mind. Please view her complete collections here.

She is currently trying to sell her accessories to raise enough money to come to New York. I am in love with the feathery lovely Shamanic Necklace and Shamanic Feather Earrings, both very affordable! Purchase them and other fantastic designs by Malan Daleen on Etsy here.

I am really hoping for Maleen to be here by May. If she is some garments from her beautiful menswear collection will be included in the installation I am doing with Desideria Adame for the Desire art show at the Chelsea Hotel.

Shamanic Earrings by Maleen Dalan

Shamanic Necklace by Maleen Dalan

blue Monday for tequila Sunrise

2010-03-14T10:52:00.000-07:00

I met a mad hatter at high tea on a blue monday.
There was a tequila sunrise dancing vividly on his smile, and the spark of green in my eyes began to blend in.
In an evening that seemed like afternoons laughter blended into sloppy kisses. I could taste whiskey between my breaths.

A week of catastrophes and more laughter.
I found a new meaning in tarot and saw old reflections which melted into current broken mirrors.
I decided that Brooklyn high school girls have complex epic style, and I acquired a fascination with multi-textured fishnets.
I missed Desideria, and thought a lot about our emerging creation.

When will a blue Monday burst into an orange sunrise?
I want to taste it, sweetly.
When I walked through the angry Brooklyn sky last night I felt really alive
Having all that wind and rain tear through me.

I want to breath in sunshine.
But the darkness of the forthcoming storm forces desire in me.
My mind is busy with the fascination of what my hands will decide to create next.

I like knowing that blue Monday might exist.
But I want to remember tequila sunrise
Where the stars turn pink and white.

Wearable Art Interview and My Heart Belongs to BK, Pt. 1

2010-03-12T10:43:00.000-08:00

My life since moving to New York has shifted, tectonic plates, and now the stars align in so many ways that they never aligned before. I've always seen things in my own ways, but how I fit in, and that there where places this was considered a brilliant way of being, didn't become clear until after moving here. New York is a well. You dip your bucket in and out comes water-it could be gold and drinkable or it could be poison in a cup. You just have to see what cards fall into your hand, and make the most of it.

I love Brooklyn. It's sweet here, but in the most mutilated sense. And it hasn't always been easy. In the first year that I was living here I decided it was like a roller coaster, and took all the flips and with great speed and anticipation. It was such a mix of things, that first year. I cried, I laughed, I drank, I rode bikes in Williamsburg in the Spring, and danced in Bushwick in the snow. I was lonely, yet surrounded by more people then I have ever lived around in my life. I fell in love in so many different ways and got my heart broken in just as many.

The longer I've been here the clearer my niche becomes. I'm on a cloud now, going on three years at the end of this summer. I feel more exhilarated and creative then I have at any other point in my life. Living on a cloud right now, and the card that I see the clearest ahead of me is the high priestess. I thank New York for a lot of this. I have been incredibly inspired since living here.

I recently was interviewed for the Wearable Art Blog. If you have a chance read the interview and learn more about some of my favorite things in this fascinating, complex city here.

Lp Fashion Photos and Art Show at Chelsea Hotel

2010-03-07T06:31:00.000-08:00

I recently found out that the Desire Show, a group art showing I am participating in, will be showcasing in a gorgeous suite at the Chelsea Hotel. I am very excited about this, and look forward to showing pieces from previous collections, as well as new work. The show will be either the first or second weekend of May, and will include the work of Desideria Adame, Elizabeth Raab, Laura Sheedy and Nate Hill, among others. I am looking forward to showing with so many talented people!

Below are some beautiful new photos of my clothes. This shoot was styled by the talented duo Lp FashionPhilosophy, who I have really enjoyed working with over the past couple of weeks. Stayed tuned for photos of my clothes, also styled by Lp, which will appear in Complex D magazine.

Photographer: Spencer Kohn
Model: Kristina Roser

Sang Bleu Journal feature and Twitter

2010-03-01T13:52:00.000-08:00

In November I was interviewed by the hilarious and talented journalist William Van Meter (who I met under the worst of circumstances in Iceland back in September). He interviewed me for an article for Sang Bleu Journal. I showed him my collections, and we spent a lot of time talking about my fascination with dead birds and taxidermy. We also discussed my dead bird tattoos, done by amazing tattoo artist Myles Karr, and the part that dead birds play in my life. I haven't been able to read the feature, because I have to wait until it was published, but I am anxious to see what it says.

Unfortunately there are not many places you can purchase the Journal in the states, but you will find a list of places it is sold in NYC (including the MoMa) on their website. Additionally this journal, which is published in London, is available for sale at bookstores in many metropolitan cities of Europe. I believe it can also be ordered online, although it is on the expensive side-like $50 each-but I've been told worth every penny. Issue 5, with a feature on me, will be launched in Paris at the OFR bookshop on March 8th.

You can find more info on the publication via the following link; http://sangbleu.com/issue-5/

Also, on a completely different note, I'm on twitter now! You should follow me; https://twitter.com/PapuszaCouture

TWINS, Razor Red Editorial and Uniform Project

2010-02-28T08:42:00.000-08:00

Today I am kind of just playing catch up, because for some reason I have really slacked on blogging all of my news for the past month, since I got a new mac. Ironic.

So here, are some exciting updates;

First of all please check out the teaser video for TWINS by Gemma Fleming. There is more to come from this project soon. It was a great project and we had a great team.

Concept & Photography: Gemma Fleming
Assistant Photographer: Ben Vaccaro
Post Production: Clefi Lee & Alessio De Vecchi
Model: Kate Verb
Hair Stylist: David Lopez
Make-up Artist: Jennifer Lombardo
Designers: Kaytee Papusza OBrien, Mika Jones
Fashion Stylist: Abi Schwinck

Second look at these gorgeous images from The Lost Child editorial in January's Razor Red. The talented Cameron Carpenter styled it, and here are the tears with my pieces;

And last, but certainly not least, I was very excited to see a pair of my tights, which I call Papusza Limbs, on the Uniform Project. Please see via the following link;

http://www.theuniformproject.com/home/daily/12-ball.html?month=February

Stay tuned for more exciting updates! Life is busy, and although I've had an awful cold for the past few days I am excited to be in a bit of a New York whirlwind! There is so much going on!

xoxox

Papusza Couture in Streetwear Today

2010-02-27T07:18:00.000-08:00

Half a dozen Papusza Couture pieces, from my Oceania Etherea Collection, are in the current issue of magazine Streetwear Today (http://www.stw2d.com/). This magazine is distributed throughout Europe and Japan quarterly. The shoot for it was back in October, styled by fashion editor Stephan Kallaus, and the issue came out in January during Berlin Fashion Week and Bread and Butter. Papusza Couture is in the spread titled "I love aNYbody."

Leather hand-carved wrap scarf by Papusza Couture

Ghostcape by Papusza Couture

Tutu and Capelette by Papusza Couture

Pantaloons by Papusza Couture

Tulle Skirt by Papusza Couture

Papusza Couture in the New York Times!!!

2010-02-25T08:30:00.000-08:00

YES!!!

Thanks to one of my favorite little Papusza's, and awesome stylist friend, Rachel Singer; Papusza Couture is in the New York Times style section today!!! Paired with Alexander McQueen to boot!!! Check it out:

Photos by Douglas Friedman for the New York Times.

Rainbow Bird Wings, Ivory Antlers, Beautiful Dreams; RIP McQueen

2010-02-12T10:19:00.000-08:00

I feel like a cliche in saying it, but yesterday was a horrible day in the world of fashion. Visionary designer, Lee Alexander McQueen, was found dead, after having hung himself in the early hours of the morning.

I woke to a text yesterday from one of my best friend informing me of it, and like many others I know, I was absolutely shocked. I am still having a horrible time stomaching the reality of it. I spent a good half hour this morning watching video from Plato's Atlantis, his most recently shown collection, crying and being blown away by the beauty of it all. The thing that really breaks my heart is that we won't be able to see the genius of what he would have done next.

There was never a moment in watching video of McQueen's shows, or looking at runway shots for the first time, that I was not completely awe struck. When I first started Papusza, McQueen was one of the few who fed my desire to create, and charged me with a need to think outside of the box. He made me not be afraid of expressing my visions as creatively as I saw them in my head. He was a dreamer, and everything about his work inspires me. The way his clothes move, the silhouettes, the textures, the textiles... mind blowing. In creating his collections McQueen brought us to another level, another world, time and time again. He was a true artist. One of the few creators in the world of mainstream fashion that remained true to his own vision. For that, he will be greatly missed.

My heart hurts for him, and I truly hope that he is at peace now... in a world of rainbow bird wings, candy flowers, snow white antlers and surreal muses... he deserves to live in a world as beautiful as all that he created.

Below are some of my favorite pieces created by him, memorializing all of the inspiration that he has given to me. I'm sure that there are many others around the globe who feel the same as me...

In loving memory, to the dear genius of McQueen...

Rain falls in Brooklyn

2009-11-14T12:27:00.000-08:00

Rain falls in Brooklyn. I touched the cracked sky and a leak sprung loose. Quite inside my loft, drinking tea. Loud tricolor feather earrings that look like zebras work their way through my fingertips. Hot pink, yellow, bright blue. A prism of ideas cracking and sharply falling, like icicles, within my reach.

Blue antique lace, pale and beautiful like an antique child, resting on a red dress form. Colored like scarlet veins in love. Dreams and ideals paint my eyelids when they flutter shut. Plunging forward I take a breath in. It chokes me and I cough backwards. Some shy and shrink in my shine, and it hurts me, but not as much as the love that I feel when I create. I don't try to shrink others. I just want to touch other peoples things. I only want to create using my own hands.

Blind, thirsty, I try and ignore the shrinking violets who I adore, and let go of all ambitions other then those of antiqued children and beautiful tricolor icicles. I draw pictures and paint with pastel feathers as I reach forward, grasping at that prism of rainbows that I know exists somewhere between these silvery drops. Licking down that red dress form, to kiss a child on the cheek, like antique teardrops.

Rain continues to fall in Brooklyn. It is quite today.

Tales of a Cuntastic Halloween in the City

2009-11-13T18:03:00.000-08:00

"I'm a Giant Bloody Cunt!" was my popular phrase on the eve of Halloween, 2009; my third Halloween enjoying the festivities in my darling NYC.

As you may guess, most called it disgusting. Many were even full blown repulsed by my costume this year. Lot's of people said that it was "pretty and disgusting" at the same time. I got "Ew. Brilliant, but ew" (i liked that one, found it very amusing). Of course the ever so popular "you're insane" popped up here and there among friends and relatives. My father even answered the phone "Hey ya giant bloody cunt!" the week following Halloween when I called him.

My interpretation of Halloween a la the Giant Bloody Cunt? Don't really know that I have one specific approach. It's a costume I have been wanting to create for years, and really enjoyed wearing and making (although during the making process I really did feel like a lunatic). I could take the gnarly feminine cycle approach. "It's just part of being a woman. It's what our bodies do. I wanted to represent the beauty of that through my costume." Another more slightly irritating representation-pissing off separatists from the four corners of the earth-could be that I'm making a feminist statement in owning the word cunt by dressing up as one. There is some truth in this one I guess, though I hate to admit it. It just amuses me how all those old feminists find the use of the "C" word so offensive, especially coming from the mouth of a young seasoned female artist, such as myself.

In all truth it was just my art. There was no major political statement in my dressing up in a gown I made out of tampons and maxipads. I did it because I found the entire concept hysterical... and even more so then that I found the way people reacted when I told them about the concept even more hysterical. I thought it most appropriate to test the waters. I like provoking reactions of shock. Especially when I can shock the not so-easily-shocked types... which I did (big pat to self on back). So maybe art for the sheer purpose of shock value is ridiculous, and I know many who find it offensive. That being said, I think a nice dose of shock value from time to time does the body good. It keeps people on their feet. I wouldn't want anyone to get to comfortable with mainstream store bought Halloween costumes.

The gown was made out of white silk georgette. It had an asymmetrical hem and a wild tulle skirt (also originally white). I draped the body of the white gown, and wove shredded white silk along the hemline, over the shoulders, down the bust, and along the waist. I sewed panels of maxipads around the hips and waist, then woven tampons, and their various insertion devices, into the strips of white silk through the dress. At the end of it all a took the rather pristine white gown covered in feminine products (which someone even said looked like a wedding gown-pre-dying red of course), and I dipped it into a huge vat of boiling hot scarlet dye. The dying process made me feel like a lunatic... seriously, I was carrying this huge gown covered in dark red dripping pads and tampons around my loft, trying to find the best place to dry it. Thought that I was gonna end up in a loony bin.

Anyways, Halloween eve I accessorized the tampon earrings and a tampon bracelet. I made a nice little bow for my hair out of maxipads. It was very Minny Mouse-esque if I may say so myself. Did the lips in bright red, white eyes with black liquid wing tipping along the lashes. The makeup really was very classic, Betty Paige pin up of me.

The evening started with a young cute musician boy, a friend of a friend, being so repulsed at my costume (while we were getting ready at friends house) he could barely even look at it. After I was dressed and we hit the streets I think the "period details" seemed rather suttle (if that is possible), and many just viewed me as another bloody girl in a sea of costumes. A cute little Japanese girl wearing Couch shoes and carrying a Gucci bag stopped me on the train to tell me how great I looked. Another woman at a party asked for my card, totally disturbed by what I was wearing, and emailed me the next week to tell me how beautiful she thought my designs where. I met a cute little gay boy in a rather generic super hero costume with a "C" on the chesy at the deli, who stopped me to tell me how great my costume was. When I told him what i was he replied "Oh fantastic! I'm Captain Cum Squirt!"

My favorite moment of the evening, by far, was the doorman incident. Some friends and I were attending a Halloween party in one of those really fancy buildings in Manhattan with a doorman and a bellboy. As we walked through the lobby, giggling and already slightly buzzed, a maxipad, drenched in red dye, fell from my dress. The doorman, seeing it and thinking it was something important, ran and picked it up, chasing me and calling "Miss! Excuse me, miss! You dropped something!" I realized I was the "miss" he was referring to as I entered an elevator full of people. I turned and he handed it to me. As I took it from him I think it dawned on him what it was, and an expression of absolute horror came across his face. Poor guy. Here he though he was doing me a favor by picking up my dropped check book or makeup case.

So yes, the Halloween costume scenario this year was a success. Don't know how I'm gonna top that one next year. Luckily I have 11 and 1/2 months for planning.

Interview with me in Above the Fray...

2009-11-06T10:50:00.000-08:00

Woohoo!!! Above the Fray interview is up, along with fantastic photo spread from the talented Mikey Pozarik. Check it out when you have a chance!

Find the article and full photoshoot at:

http://www.abovethefraymag.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=353:alice-in-wonderland-photo-shoot&catid=1:blog&Itemid=2

An Ode to The Halloween Costume...

2009-10-30T11:13:00.000-07:00

Naturally, I adore Halloween, and everything about it. I often will spend months planning my costume, and think about it year around. Not to say I have any opposition to costumes on any given day, but there is a certain allure to dressing up on Halloween, and the magical childlike darkness that comes with it, that can't be found year round.

This year I have made a dress of maxipads and tampons and splatter dyed it bloody red. I was also commissioned by Ben to make a fabulous "Max" a la "Where The Wild Things Are" costume. He was very pleased with it, and I can't say I disagree with him.

Here are some of my favorite personal costumes from past years:

Bride of Death, 2004

Jackson Pollack Painting, 2005

Edwarda Scissorhands, 2006

Bloody Crow, 2007

Marie Antoinette-wore this dress last year but can't find pics of me in it!!

Another Halloween. Stay tuned for pics!

A psychedelic tea party in the east village, Alice... And other news.

2009-10-15T07:48:00.000-07:00

Little recap on what's been going on in my life this past week... very creative, productive and lovely! I had my article posted on the Smashing Darling blog about the Sirius* and Sodafine show. Then I spent my weekend building wild props for my Alice in NYC (and the psychedelic tea party!!!) shoot. After that fantastic shoot I did another lovely one yesterday, which I will post pics from when they come...

Anyways, check out this blog I wrote about the lovely Siri and Erin, 2 of my favorite designers in Brooklyn; Sirius and Sodafine Do It Again (http://www.smashingdarling.com/blog/2009/10/14/emerging-fashion-designers-sirius-and-sodafine-do-it-again-2/). Both Ladies are awesome and I totally dig not only their shows, but also their clothes! They are both boutique owners here in BK, and have been setting a strong foundation for indie and emerging designers to succeed here in NYC, which often feels like the land of mass produced fashion. I love them! Read the blog on SD, and next time you are in Willyburg stop by their boutiques to find some fab new threads.

Siri also just started a line of stunning chain crochet necklaces called Sirius* Lux (soon up at www.siriuslux.com ). She was kind enough to let me borrow a very collar-like copper one for my photoshoot with photographer Mikey Pozarik (www.mikeypozarik.com) on Monday. The shoot was a blast. The whole team kicked ass, and I really enjoyed creating with them. The hair and makeup where incredibly creative and stunning. The models did a great job, especially considering the chilly fall weather conditions, and the goose bumps they encountered. ANDDD.... the photography was mind blowing. Mikey is a very talented Australian photographer that has been in NY for a couple of years. I am impressed with his previous body of works and I really loved the stunning eerie quality of his lighting for this particular shoot, the way that the shadows cast and the models told a story in how they were positioned. In all regards it was a fantastic shoot. I also really enjoyed designing some of the props for it!!

Photographer Mikey Pozarik. Hair by Bronnie Knot, assisted by Dina. Makeup by Mia. Models; Ivy, Lana, Rebecca and Elizabeth. Styling by Rachel Singer. From top picture-millinery far left by Tessa Morehouse (www.VelvetAntlerNYC.com). Crochet copper mill end chain collar center left by Sirius* Lux (www.siriuslux.com). Earrings by Mayapple designs.

Yesterday did another shoot with the lovely photographer Jaclyn Lucia. The team kicked ass on that one too, and I am really looking forward to seeing the images. I will post more on that when they come in!!

Stay tuned for the many photoshoots I plan to be doing in the upcoming months. I have an entire new collection, Oceania Etherea, which I just started working with photographers on photoshoots for this week. Many more crazy conceptual fine art and fashion stories featuring my collection to come, along with exciting accessories from talented jewelry and millinery designers! I will keep ya posted!

My Beautiful Fascination; Morbidity

2009-10-07T18:40:00.000-07:00

People have described my work over the past 4 years as being dark, gothic, strange and even disturbing (thanks Tim Gunn). Others have countered that by calling it ethereal, lovely, beautiful and vibrant. Regardless, the "dark" element is clear in what I do. It is a part of my aesthetic that creates a vessel for me, as person functioning in everyday life, to release the dark.

Photo by Elizabeth Raab. Hair by Danyale Cook. Little bird bones. Sleeping on the Wind collection; Robin.

It got pretty blatant that I was seduced by the magnitude of the opaque early on in my work of Papusza. While still living in Seattle, after the death of my dear friend/brother Bryce, I acquired an obsession for dead birds. Out of this I culminated my fourth (and largest at the time) collection of work. I initially entitled it "The Dead Bird Collection." I later came to call it "Sleeping on the Wind." I showed this body of work shortly before transplanting to NY, a little over 2 years ago. My show included the works of a set designer, 3 painters (many of the paintings on dresses in my collection), about half a dozen performers, and a dozen more lovely models. Hair and makeup where keyed by the very talented Danyale Cook (http://purealchemysalon.com/), and blew the crowd away. I also did a series of fine art and editorial photos of the collection with 2 seperate photographers; Elizabeth Raab (www.elizabethraab.com) and Bethany Antikajian (http://www.bethanyantikajian.com/).

Photo by Bethany Antikajian. Hair and makeup by Wendy Honeywell. Dead Seagull.

It was well before my dead bird obsession came to light that I was doing dark art, and very entwined with the dark side, though. My adoration of morbidity has been a part of me since I was a young girl. I view taking decay-things that are part of death and what is considered ugly-as part of a greater cycle. This is a cycle that drives and feeds all of us. I think it is important to acknowledge these cycles exist.

Photo by Elizabeth Raab. Hair by Danyale Cook. Makeup by Dawn Tunnell. Bloody Crow.

For example, I have had a handful of individuals in the fashion world challenge my use of leather, fur, bones, and taxidermy in the clothes I make. Some people have thought it was weird, and others even have called it unethical. My arguement is that doing what I am is very green. If I find a dead pigeon on the street, take it home, sterilize it, free it, and clip it's wings to use on a dress then I am recycling. If I find an old rabbit fur or lambskin jacket, cut it up, and make it into a bodice and a pair of hot pants; I am recycling! And making some beautiful stuff, that will look lovely on the body.

Photo by Elizabeth Raab. Hair/makeup by Brandee Schlossar. Bloody Crow.

I started using things I found on the street in my art when I was in college. I would weave through back ally's after class, and find dingy old rusting chains. I would string them with skeleton key and bike locks, also found on the street or at junk stores. It turned into my favorite necklace and I wore it everyday. Virtually entirely made of found objects, decay, and things that most would view as dark, or potential morbid.

Photos by Kat Bret. From my collection Origama Pink.

We waste a lot in this society. We also pretend that things inside of us do not exist. This is unfortunate. Pretending that something isn't there won't make it disappear, I think we all know this. Culminating what we are afraid of, and creating through it, allows us to harness our fears, and take control of them. I think if more people where open to the darkside, morbidity as some call it, they would be freer in their knowledge of themselves.

Photo by Milk Manstudio.

That is my brief overview into my love of morbidity. I prefer to speak the wealth of it's language through my visual work.

A Gypsy In New York....

2009-10-04T11:03:00.000-07:00

I dream about it all the time... other realms, elements and places that travel has a tendency to purge you into. I like being mobile. I like the idea of being nomadic, and have enjoyed the smaller encounters I have had with being a traveler throughout my life. I adapt well, I like strange new experiences. I want to culminate my creativity by seeing how people live in places in the world I have yet to see.

I am a dreamer. I need freedom and stimulation to thrive. I get bored easily, and I constantly need my ideas to be fed so that I can continue to create with the passion that drives me. I like to be part of the otherworldly, and could cease having a sediment existence for awhile. I could be a gypsy, living my life out of the palm of my hand. I could sell my art, and travel the world. See Bangkok and Berlin, Rio De Janeiro and Moscow. From Alaska to Greenland, wish I could kiss the arctic tundras. I want to touch the sand of Ocho Rios, and swim in the sea with corals kissing the things I see.

So what does one do to make it happen? My thoughts on travel have been inclusive of many possible options. I have considered putting all my things in storage and subletting my apartment, then picking up for a few months with a savings in hand, and visiting friends in either Europe or Thailand. I have considered artist residencies, still a nice viable option. The main incentive in regards to that would be creating positive networks with other artists I can work with internationally, to continue to culminate ideas influenced by otherworldly elements. I like the idea of working with people who are used to an entirely different cultural norm then what I am acclimated to. I find that their perspective gives me a positive influence.

The other conflict I have with all this gypsy fever is that I live in New York. For some reason, New York is not an easy city for me to leave. Every time I go I suffer these weird little pangs of anxiety in the days leading up to my departure. Once I leave I have these little bouts of relief and am so glad to be out of the city. After being away a few days I adjust to the pace and it is great. Although... I do always realize when I leave that if I wasn't living in NY I don't know where else I would culminate what I do. Sure there are other great cities all around the world, and I suppose that is why living internationally is really appealing to me. But in the states I don't know where I would find so many talented individuals so driven and happy to work with me on my projects, and share their creativity.

I love the spirit of New York City. Of Brooklyn, my sweet, sweet Brooklyn. Living here has done amazing things for my wealth of life experiences, and my sense of self. I need to continue to allow those experiences to grow. But in order to stay here I will need to find ways to leave for brief flashes of time, breath without the city. Get inspiration outside of the urban chaos that surrounds me. Be a gypsy in New York. Where will I find my next dreams when I am wondering through my sleep, and I wake tirelessly and lucid with the next adventure?

Photo by my darling Victoria Collier. Taken in Brooklyn, NY, Summer of 2008.

Back in Iceland...

2009-09-24T08:48:00.000-07:00

Okay... so a few weeks back, after returning from my lovely little Icelandic adventure, I posted a blog briefly recapping the chaos my experience was. I spoke vaguely of all that occurred over that surreal weekend in the lava land of ice and green. The week was capped off by a mishmash of twisted emotions, including excitement, joy, magic, disappointment, heartbreak, exhaustion, etc.... oh the heart of a nutty creative spirit like myself, always keeps my head about level with a roller coaster.

Anyways, I mentioned in previous blog I would write more on Iceland once I had some more time to decompress and process everything. Well, after having had a few weeks of distance from it, I have decided not to rehash it and go into it here and now. One day when I write a book about my life of mother f#$*ing crazy you can catch all the details in there. Until then you are all just gonna have to deal with not really knowing exactly what went down in Iceland.

Read the articles. Google it. Find out what you will. But NOTHING even comes remotely close to the actual experience. An experience, in hindsight, which I am incredibly glad to have had. It was an experience I learned an enormous amount from. I met an incredible network of people internationally, which I have been bonded to, from having had this experience. I got to see Iceland and it was incredible and I want to go back. AND I got quoted in New York Magazine about how the runway made me wanna barf on my own face 5 times, in addition to being quoted and mentioned in a couple of other articles. A personal favorite is my likening showing my collection on the pile of water crate "runway" (literally) they provided us with, to serving caviar in a toilet bowl. Mmmhhhmmm. That's right folks. Caviar in a kitty litter box.

That being said, Iceland was a very special place and while I was there I had the honor of meeting some incredibly lovely, creative and talented people. The land of ice is kissed with magic. I even ran into a favorite little muse of mine, Bjork (who had she and Matthew Barney's daughter with her), on the airplane flying home to NYC.

For now I focus on the good though. I, unfortunately, did not have my own camera while I was there (typical), but here are some photos other people took while we were there. Most of them were taken by the incredibly talented designer Maleen Dalan, whose work you should absolutely look at. It is gorgeous! Her website is www.maleendalan.com.

Antedotes and images;

(From right outside the chruch of wishes in Eastern Iceland. Photo by Maleen.)

(Me, outside the church of wishes. Photo by Rachel.)

(This and all the following photos by Maleen.)

(Our magical geyser. Seriously. This was insane. So cool.)

(Designers Anja Hynynen, Greg Maldoror and myself.)

(Mo Darling and me.)

(The links in my circle of admiration. Maleen Dalan and Greg Maldoror-www.maldoror.pl)

(Designers behaving goofy. From left to right; Greg Maldoror, Me, Myrto Stamou and Anna Unger.)

(Feather earring by Nicki and Roxy @ Mayberry designs.)

(Maleen Dalan and Kaytee P.)

So there's a peak into Iceland. If you wanna see more beautiful photos of Iceland check out the blog of photographer Halston Bruce, who traveled there last Spring. She has some great images of the landscape from when she was there. Here is the link to her blog: http://breukelendisplace.blogspot.com/

...and if I married the sea would I be a pirate???

2009-09-15T08:32:00.000-07:00

As many of my family members and closest friends know I have not always been super keen on the concept of marriage. I have no problems with it in regards to others, but have always thought the idea was not right. I am a very independent soul, and I am sure if the right person came along this might change. That being said the idea of it has always (and my being in it) made my skin crawl a bit.

I've often said to many of my dear friends that if I ever got married it would be on a giant pirate ship next to the sea. I would design myself an elaborate gown covered in skulls, dead bird wings, dried out sea creatures and lots of black and blue. All my favorite people would be there, including my darling Kati and her parrot Nigel, as well as many other pirate spirited folks who fill my life. We would drink rum and whiskey right out of the bottle, or even out of a shoe (okay, maybe not a shoe, but I find the idea very comical and pirate-like). David Bowie would play all night, bottles would be broken in celebration, and the night would end with giant chest full of bird bones and long lost treasures. At the end of the night I would send my guests on their marry way as they walk the plank off the ship and leave their valuables with me... (kidding!)

When I told my mom about this idea she teased me about how it would be hard to ever find someone who would agree to being the counterpart in a wedding like that. One of my dearest friends teased me that it would be my wedding getting married to the sea, and that she wanted to be my first mate. Regardless I love the idea. Perhaps it is just another sign that I never really grew up, and just like playing dress up and pretending to be a pirate.

In 2007, the last Summer that I was living in Seattle, I had a few clients commission me to make their wedding gowns. I encountered a few very frustrating bridezilla moments with a couple of these brides to be, and swore at the end of the Summer that I wasn't going to do wedding gowns anymore. As many of you may be aware from looking at my work white is not usually my preferred shade of textile medium.

I didn't touch a wedding dress for the two years following that, which was also my first two years living in New York. Last Spring, after completing and showing my Origama Pink collection, my childhood best friend Emilee announced that she and her lovely boyfriend of 8 years would be getting married. I had always wanted them to get married, and had been telling Emilee since I started Papusza that if they did marry I wanted to make her a dress.

I was happy to fulfill my offer, and create Emilee a lovely bone white dress. She wore this during her very magical and unconventional wedding this past Summer (see photos below), after the ceremony. During the ceremony she and her husband wore beautiful traditional Indian attire (which his parents had bought for them in India) to celebrate his family and background.

After the ceremony for the reception they dressed in playful roaring 20's attire, and danced the night away, like it was The Great Gatsby all over again. I created Emilee's dress using bone white silk charmeuse and organza for the skirt and the base (the dress was two separate pieces; a slip and a transparent over dress). For the bodice I used intricate antique lace, which Emilee's mother had sent me. The lace had been passed down from Emilee's great aunt, who had worked as a seamstress for a designer in New York in the 1920's. I really enjoyed creating lovely bodice detailing with this lace.

A couple of months back Elizabeth Raab, another one of my dear friends (who is also a great photographer that has shot lot's of my work; www.elizabethraab.com), asked me if I would design and make her wedding gown for her ceremony in October. Last week we went and got materials (including a gorgeous Swiss lace with baby blue accents), and for the past few days I have been culminating the dress, and starting the base of it. I look forward to finishing it in the upcoming week. Please stay tuned for details. I plan to use bird bones as buttons on the back for detailing, and lot's of feathers, which we all know I love.

Please stay tuned for photos of the work I do on Elizabeth's gown. Also, if you or anyone you know might be seeking a custom gown for a wedding, or any other special occasion, and you want a Papusza please feel free to email me at kaytee@papuszacouture.com. I would be happy to create you something special, and I promise not to used pirate skulls or birds bones unless you want them...

Photo by JW Anderson. See more photos from this event at http://zymogenphotography.com/naik-mccready.html.

My dress at Purple Fashion Show, NYFW

2009-09-12T15:39:00.000-07:00

It was a hit and looked great. Yay!

Dress made and designed by Papusza Couture. Photo by Anna Thiessen. Model Paige Chin. Some textile design done in collaboration with Roseanna.

Papusza Couture at Puprle Fashion Show during NYFW

2009-09-09T13:10:00.000-07:00

Hey everyone! One of my gowns will be shown and auctioned off tomorrow night during New York Fashion Week at the Anita Kaufmann Foundation's Purple Fashion Show. This is a charity event, and all proceeds go to benefit the 5th grade epilepsy education program. The event will be taking place at the Sony Atrium on Madison Avenue. My gown will be shown and auctioned off alongside the work of Nanette Lepore, Elie Tahari, gwen stefani's l.a.m.b., and many other fabulous designers and labels whose work I like.

For more info or to purchase tickets please visit http://www.akfus.org/purple-event.php

Here is the gown I will be showing and have donated for auction

Photo taken by Elizabeth Raab. Model Zara. Hair by Linh Nguyen. Makeup by Chris Milone. Some textile design done in collaboration with Roseanna.

Things are not always what they seem to be...

2009-09-08T06:51:00.000-07:00

So I'm back from Iceland and relieved to be in New York where, ironically, I feel like I can finally get some rest. My trip in Iceland was insane... surreal... and very, VERY strange. At this point I still can't even grasp what happened, and am not at a point where I feel I can explain or rehash the situation, as I am still learning more and more details and trying to get a handle on it myself. I feel overwhelmed by a mix of emotion, and am both heart broken by the vision I lost, and also thankful to have met some really talented people while I was there.

"Iceland Fashion Week" was an array of catastrophes, chaos, deception, disorganization and utter physical and emotional exhaustion. It is true that some of my pieces were damaged. I am heart broken because I had to unpack a suitcase yesterday that was a collection of brittle broken bird bones and cracked wings (which I was only given 15 minutes to pack, thus causing them to be damaged when we were forced to haul our collections up hills and stairs to escape the frightening stage/runway we were told we had to show on). I am also heart broken that I was not able to show in the beauty of Iceland as I had envisioned my collection would be shown.

On the positive I met some really interesting and talented designers from all over the world. I also got to see Iceland, which as many of you know is something I have always wanted to do. I need to go back under better circumstances so I can really spend some time bonding with the land there (which is like the moon overgrown with moss next to the ocean; mind you a perfect place for Papusza's to dream). I also found things about the mythology in their culture to be very endearing and charming (like their belief in trolls, elves and giants). I was also on the airplane with Bjork on the way back to New York from Iceland (no joke!!!). I will write more on this at a later date.

Anyways, I am glad to be back in New York, where I am attempting to just recharge and re cooperate from it all. I have to run a few post trip errands today, but other then that plan to spend my next couple of days reading, sleeping, eating and meeting with Elizabeth Raab to plan the making of her wedding gown (with bird bones I think!!).

Posted below are links to some of the articles, blogs and a pre-press release from all this chaos and shambles. Little things keep coming out of the wood work and there are still many stories to be told. I look forward to hearing them all. When my energy level is higher and I have the emotional capacity to rehash the whole situation I will be able to write about it. I will also continue posting articles from blogs and in the press as they come in about this catastrophe.

A big thank you to everyone who has helped me and believed in me as an artist. Although I am exhausted now I still stand passionately behind my work and my vision, and will only continue to move forward. Hopefully in the future my creations will not be tarnished by negative experiences and situations that cause them to get hurt. I will do everything that I can to protect them.

Links regarding IFW:

http://www.facebook.com/search/?q=krelwear&init=quick#/note.php?note_id=250128775513&ref=mf

http://techfluff.tv/2009/09/07/fashion-drives-you-crazy-police-called-as-fifteen-designers-boycott-iceland-fashion-week-09/

http://www.lizzypeters.nl/blog/?p=947

http://www.visir.is/article/20090907/FRETTIR01/691751613

Papusza Couture at Iceland Fashion Week

2009-08-26T19:46:00.000-07:00

Greetings! I hope everyone has been enjoying their summer and is getting excited for all the fashion shows in the fall as I am. I am thrilled to be showing during New York Fashion Week at the Purple Fashion Show.

Additionally I am absolutely elated with excitement about the collection I will be debuting at Iceland Fashion Week at the Viking Museum in Keflavik on September 5th. The show is called "Walk on Water," and will be showcased on a runway built out of water bottles that looks like a viking canoe. I will be showing, along with 25 other incredibly talented indapendant fashion designers from around the world. Find a full list of designers and more information about the event at www.icelandfashionweek.is.

I am going to be showing a collection entitled Oceania Etherea. Following is the press release and description:

"Papusza Couture will be presenting the collection Oceania Etherea for Iceland Fashion Week in Setpember of '09. Designer Kaytee P has always had a fascination with the world of birds, feathers and flight. Kaytee's nostalgic love of the sea, and her childhood spent close to the natural beauty of the Western U.S coastline, are the inspirations for this collection.

In the ethereal oceans birds live in the recesses of the deep. Feathers float and cool tones calm her aesthetic in the airy bright balance of the sky. These elements are fused with the rich, deep luxury that exists at the bottom of the sea, conveyed by seashells, shimmery treasures of metallics, luscious furs and hand dyed wave patterns on her garments. To view Kaytee's previous collections or to contact the designer about custom garments and/or purchasing please go to her website at www.PapuszaCouture.com. "

And for inspiration here are some images of Iceland...