WITH a passion for sewing, stitching, and transforming people into something completely different, a western suburbs costume designer is making more than just her dreams come true.
Hayley Kirkpatrick, originally from Werribee and now living in Altona Meadows, has recently broken into the costume design industry.
Last year she received her first job as a professional costume designer and maker for The Girls From Oz, a major stage show starring Jane O’Toole.
Ms Kirkpatrick said she had always known that she would choose a creative field to work in.
“I used to perform a lot and I was always into visual arts as well and this is a really good way to combine both of those aspects,” Ms Kirkpatrick said.
“I’ve always known that I wanted to do something artistic and this really combines so many artistic elements.”
For Ms Kirkpatrick the process of designing and creating a costume can take several months and she said she loves every part of the process.
“There’s a lot of research into the period I am designing for which I really enjoy,” she said.
“I like being able to say that I know for a fact that this is what they wore at a particular time.”
She said her dream job would be to create period costumes for a television show or movie.
“I really like being part of something that is bigger than just my part in it,” she said.
“It’s really exciting working with everyone when it all comes together and seeing everyone’s different skills.”
The former Heathdale Christian College student said she has already created close to 100 costumes, including a wedding dress for a friend, and she hopes to be able to create thousands more.
For more information visit hayleykdesigns.weebly.com
