A passion for fashion

Patricia (Pat) Dew’s journey from sewing her own bridesmaids’ dresses 58 years ago, to crafting six elaborate costumes for the annual Steampunk NZ Festival in 2023, is a testament to her boundless creativity.

Infatuated with sewing since the age of 6, Pat's passion often “drove her mother up the wall,” as she eagerly took over the sewing machine to bring her visions to life.

“She would get up from the sewing machine and in the blink of an eye, I’d be in the seat sewing scraps of fabric together,” says Pat.

However, it wasn't until a trip to London, with her husband Terry in 2000, that Pat's passion took on a new dimension. A visit to the Victoria and Albert Museum ignited her fascination with Victorian-era clothing, prompting her to embark on the challenging journey of crafting costumes, starting with doll-sized replicas.

“I was in absolute awe at the museum! I’d always loved Victorian era clothing and Terry asked why I didn’t start making some myself.”

Graduating from Barbie outfits to intricate porcelain dolls, Pat honed her craft through meticulous attention to detail and countless hours of work. Her success in doll shows across New Zealand and Australia earned her prestigious titles, but Pat was seeking a new challenge.

It came via the annual Steampunk festival in Oamaru; an event that celebrates the perfect blend of Victorian aesthetics with quirky innovation.
“I like anything slightly quirky, so when I saw the steampunk festival, I thought that’s something I could be interested in as it’s very close to Victorian costume design,” says Pat.

Enlisting her cousin as a willing accomplice, Pat plunged into the realm of steampunk costume design. From March to May, she worked tirelessly to create three stunning ensembles for both her and her cousin to wear, even squeezing in time to fashion a ball dress for her granddaughter.

With every detail meticulously crafted by Pat, down to the event hats and handbags, the costumes were an absolute hit at the festival!

Despite the thrill of the whole experience, Pat and her cousin declared it a "once in a lifetime" adventure, which leaves Trisha now basking in the satisfaction of a challenge well conquered! However, she hasn't completely ruled out a new creative endeavour - so watch this space.