I discovered Elizabeth on Instagram and was instantly drawn to her vibrant creations. She has a special knack for blending different decades’ fashion styles into something unique and eye-catching. Her daily outfit posts are always a delightful surprise, making you eager to see what she’ll share next. I had the chance to sit down with Elizabeth and delve into her artistic mind.
Tell Us More About Yourself
My love for fabrics started when I was a little girl, making clothes for my dolls from leftover scraps my mom had. By the time I was thirteen, I was sewing clothes for myself, sparked by my Home Economics classes in secondary school. I always dreamed of becoming a teacher, and while I loved sewing and cooking, I chose to honor my passion for art. I graduated as a Visual Arts teacher in 1981, majoring in Textiles where I learned weaving, dyeing, and printmaking.
After excelling in linoblock printing, I began incorporating that technique into the fabrics I used to design my clothes. By 1984, I started making clothes for boutiques on consignment under the label “Tpinjii Designs,” inspired by my Maltese heritage. I won fashion awards in 1987 and 1988, which encouraged me to leave teaching and focus on fashion full-time, developing unique women’s wear with prints, asymmetry, and a touch of the avant-garde.
I returned to full-time teaching in 1991 but continued designing under Tpinjii Designs until 1993. I then transitioned to creating formal and wedding gowns for a small clientele. Nowadays, I mainly extend my own wardrobe.
Can You Share Your Age?
I was born in 1961, so I’ve just turned 54.
What Motivated You to Share Photos on Instagram?
I’ve been an art teacher since 1982 and ran my fashion label for ten years during that period. After leaving full-time teaching in 2004, I took on various roles in the education sector. At the start of 2015, wanting to re-enter the fashion industry, I found I needed a current visual portfolio of my styling. As I was already dressing up daily for possible teaching call-outs, my friends suggested I showcase my outfits on Instagram. Through my posts, I aim to tell a story with my ensembles and the environments where I pose.
Currently, I balance part-time work for designer Akira Isogawa with teaching call-outs. In my spare time, I enjoy sewing, thrift shopping, cooking, and spending time with my son.
How Would You Describe Your Style?
My style is eclectic. It’s a mix of homemade, thrifted, gifted, upcycled, repurposed, designer, and vintage pieces. I find joy in combining clothing and accessories from different decades into my daily outfits. I’ve never strictly followed fashion trends, choosing instead to express my creativity and what feels right. That’s why I chose the Instagram handle “timeless_styling.”
How Has Your Style Evolved Over the Years?
Adornment has become a bigger part of my style. I’ve built a collection of hats and costume jewelry and started including vintage clothing, which requires research and interpretation of different eras into modern contexts. I’m inspired by the Advanced Style movement and aspire to be like its muses. Their collective styling has influenced my own development.
What Are the Key Components of Your Style?
Color, pattern, and adornment are my main trademarks. I love layering and adding a “wow factor” to each outfit, whether through color accents or statement pieces. Detail is important to me, from visible elements to even coordinating lingerie. Asymmetry and texture often play subtle but essential roles in my outfits. Being able to sew my own clothes allows me to experiment with these elements during construction or fabric embellishment.
Where Do You Live and How Does It Influence Your Style?
I live in Brisbane, Australia, where the sub-tropical climate subtly influences my preference for bright colors and patterns. Ultimately, though, it’s my personality that drives my style choices.
What Inspires Your Outfit Choices?
Inspiration can come from anything. I might start with one item, like a piece of jewelry or a hat, and let the outfit grow organically. External influences, such as a striking wall near my work, can also spark creativity and influence my choices of fabric and accessories.
Do You Consider Color Profiling or Body Type When Dressing?
I work with a broad color palette and have learned which colors suit me over the years. If a color isn’t flattering, I’ll use accessories to balance it out. Regarding body type, I’m aware of my shape and choose silhouettes that I find flattering. However, I’m also willing to break these rules for artistic expression.
Has Your Style Changed After Turning 40?
My style has evolved rather than changed. I still wear clothes from the ’80s and ’90s, and I’ve always been drawn to Japanese design. Working with vintage clothing has been a recent joy, adding unique flair to contemporary pieces.
Do You Believe in Dressing Age-Appropriately?
This is a complex question, but personally, I’m mindful of how much skin I reveal. I have no restrictions on theme, decade, or silhouette when putting an outfit together. Dressing appropriately for the occasion is important, and I believe in the distinction between sensual and provocative dressing.
Are You More Interested in Fashion and Style Now?
Fashion has always been a guideline, not a rule for me. I’m more focused on presenting myself well and enjoying how I look. I’ve become more confident in my self-expression and love to break fashion rules for fun. Makeup has also been a constant part of my look.
Why Is How You Look Important to You?
As a visual person, I enjoy surrounding myself with beauty and color. Dressing up is an extension of this. It boosts my self-esteem and keeps me from becoming invisible. I also enjoy the creative challenge of new looks and hope to inspire teenage girls to be creative and well-groomed.
Do You Follow Fashion Trends?
I don’t strictly follow trends. I’m more guided by my creative urges, which can be inspired by fashion magazines or a beautiful piece of fabric. My extensive collection of Vogue Patterns and fabrics allows me to interpret trends in my unique way.
Any Fashion Tips for Women Over 40?
Make your own shape rather than following trends. Find silhouettes that make you comfortable and build on them with accessories. Don’t be afraid of color; start with one statement item and experiment. Fashion should be fun and make you feel good.
Anything Else You’d Like to Add?
Wearing clothes should be enjoyable and done for your comfort. Despite the fast pace of modern life, taking pride in how we look can positively affect us and those around us. Try it out; it can bring joy to your heart!
Thanks, Elizabeth, for sharing your incredible and colorful style journey with us!