Senior Capstone Project:
The Best of Both Worlds

From Sewing Studio to Stage:
The Backstory Behind this Project

For my senior capstone project, I combined my love of live-performance entertainment costuming with one of my favorite pop artists as a young girl: Hannah Montana!

Lately, I've loved seeing what outfits Taylor Swift, Tate McRae, and Megan Moroney are wearing onstage, and I was largely inspired by Taylor Swift's recent Eras Tour. The costumes that she wore so effectively and profoundly told the story of each "era," and transported the audience to that time and musical period in her life. This was my goal with this project; to take viewers on a journey back to 2009 when The Hannah Montana Movie came out!

I created two looks -- one for Hannah and one for Miley -- to showcase the duality of my life as a dancer and seamstress. For most of my life, I've been the performer onstage, dancing for thousands around the world at folk dance festivals or international level Irish dance competitions. As I neared the end of my college career, I transitioned into a more "behind the scenes" role as a costumer and seamstress, where I've continued to learn and expand my skillset in a different way.

Although I feel completely at home when onstage, I also find great fulfillment in helping others express themselves through the art of performing. My 4+ years working in a costume shop have taught me that both literally and figuratively, good costumes are made to fit the dancer, and not the other way around. Everyone deserves to feel confident and shine onstage!

Most of all though, this project tells my story! I've always been very open and confident about my interests, and I'm not afraid to fangirl about the things I'm passionate about :) These two looks highlight my love for all things pink and sparkly, while also being confident, bold, and empowering my own feminine energy.