Western Fashionista Rebel: A Fusion of Past and Present

Reba Dilbert's Award-Winning Costume Design Celebrates Women's Strength and Vibrancy

The Western Fashionista Rebel is more than a costume; it's a statement. Dilbert's design is a celebration of women's power and vibrancy, drawing inspiration from the 1920s showgirl and modern-day carnival aesthetics. The costume is a riot of bright colours and sparkling gems, with tall, confident feathers symbolizing the wearer's strength and poise. The hat represents masculinity and strength, while the bodysuit highlights the wearer's feminine figure, creating a balance that reflects the multifaceted nature of womanhood.

What sets this design apart is its unique combination of materials and techniques. Dilbert handcrafted the costume from scratch, using a variety of fabrics such as spandex and lace, and embellishing it with sequins. The structure of the piece is framed with metal wire, bonded using a special technique. This meticulous process reflects the designer's commitment to creating a piece that is as robust and resilient as the women it celebrates.

The Western Fashionista Rebel was created in the Cayman Islands, with the project spanning from July 2018 to December 2019. Dilbert, a self-taught designer, used visualization to map and conceptualize the design, combining this method with internet research and conversations with relevant individuals to ensure the design accurately reflected the era it was inspired by.

The most challenging aspect of creating the Western Fashionista Rebel was sculpting the design with metal wire. This process required extensive time and effort to carve, frame, and secure the wire before the fabric base could be applied. Despite these challenges, Dilbert's dedication and passion for her craft ensured the successful completion of the project.

The Western Fashionista Rebel is not just a design; it's a celebration of women's strength, vibrancy, and resilience. Its creation was a labor of love, with every detail meticulously crafted to reflect the spirit of the women it celebrates. The design's success is evident in its accolades: it was awarded Silver in the A' Performing Arts, Stage, Style and Scenery Design Award in 2021. This prestigious award is given to designs that demonstrate outstanding expertise, innovation, and artistic skill, and the Western Fashionista Rebel is a deserving recipient.