Creative of the Month: Annie de la Rue

Tell us a little about yourself...

I'm Annie. A relatively new creative who, 18 months ago, had a purchasing problem… an absent daughter and a bucket list later, I had a new addiction.

When my daughter announced she was going on a student exchange, I was determined to make the most of the “me” time.

As a solo parent for her whole life, I hadn't really experienced a great deal of this "me" time before. On my long list of aspirations, one was, “Sew something.”

Like for most of us, “Textiles and Design” in high school taught me some basics but it had been pretty untested since then.

My first bucket list project was simple-ish - a pencil skirt: a couple of darts and a very dodgy zip installed, it was done, and I had the bug!

You mean I could fake a few more skills and actually make the things I’d only dreamt of owning — pieces I could never quite find in stores, let alone in my size?

I was also drawn to the “mindful consumerism” angle and convinced myself it would slow my clothing purchases.

In reality, I probably buy more fabric now than I ever did ready-to-wear — but at least this way it comes with intent… and potential!  I now proudly, almost exclusively wear my own creations!

What I didn’t expect was how much I’d love what sewing does for my brain.

As an antidote to a busy job, it's both a stress release and workout for my brain (neuroplasticity, baby). It’s sudoku with better outfits at the end! 

I sew in a very modest corner of my spare bedroom — a one-metre nook wedged between my converted walk-in robe and shoe storage — but that’s where you’ll find me most Sundays.

Yoga done, kpop tunes pumping, dreaming up bold fabric combinations and attempting skills I certainly haven’t mastered yet. Just don't ask to see the inside of any of my creations!

Nowadays sewing feels like a superpower!

What’s your go-to creative itinerary in your local area?

I love Canberra, my chosen home, so much more than a primary school visit to Parliament House and the Mint,  it is so underrated, a true hidden gem!   

If I was planning a weekend for you I would definitely recommend starting your day in Braddon, meandering between cafes and local stores...

...@popcanberra and @hivebraddon are not to be missed for local purchases, coffee at @bariocc and a quick "Dirty Bird" at @greasemonkeycanberra or bite at @wholazysu. 

I'd then duck across the beautiful Lake Burley Griffin because @portraitau and the James Turrell Skyspace at @nationalgalleryaus are not to be missed.

If you still have any room left for dinner you cannot go past @rakudining for the country's best Japanese.

Day 2 start the day out right by climbing Mt Ainslie or yoga at @kindcanberra, pastries at @under_bakery at Dairy Road or duck out to Pialligo for the country's best cinnamon scroll (voted by @godgiventalentau) at @thepialligobakesmith before and obligatory visit to @bisonhome for the best ceramics and glassware.

Close it out with a beer and burger at @capitalbrewing.  

If you have the foresight, plan your weekend around @handmadecanberra for the full creative experience, or even better @enlighten_canberra.

What’s your favourite local festival or event?

If you are an early riser, the best seasonal event hands down is my favourite Canberra Balloon Spectacular held 14-22 March. 

Expect Canberra at its best, crisp mornings, gloriously sunny days and autumnal glory!  But bring a coat!

What kind of sewing craft do you enjoy most?

Garment creation! Pattern clashing, dopamine dressing, bold styling, not dressing "my age" and generally anything that might inspire an eyebrow rise (or horror) from my mother. 

I don't have much patience for mending, hemming and sewing on buttons but I am trying to get better!

What’s a favourite recipe you love to make and share with our readers?

Haha, does HelloFresh count?! Between work and sewing I don't waste spend much time in the kitchen! 

I have become addicted to making my own Jamu however (Click HERE for the recipe)

What is your all-time favourite sewing pattern and why?

My favourite sewing pattern without question is The Assembly Line Oversized Shirt. It is so versatile!

I have made so many variations, short sleeve, funnel neck, pointed collar, formal, fun, staple pieces...

it can look so different depending on the fabric and fixings and never look like the same shirt twice.

It's probably followed by Fibre Mood Dasha Pants.

What creative projects are you currently working on?

I am going to Melbourne in a few weeks with my Daughter to see her favourite Kpop group (Enhypen), and I'm excited we have time to squeeze in the Vivienne Westwood Kawakubo Exhibition at the NGV.

I am obsessed with Tartans so of course I have been dreaming up my outfit to wear!

The real question is do I have time to make a beret/pillbox hat to top it off?!

Dive into the vibrant world of Annie de la Rue on Instagram: @annieworewhat