make an exception for the polar bear

As a child, I was more of a Barbie fan than a stuffed animal admirer. I never really got the fascination. I guess because I was so close with my twin, she was better than any comfort a soft toy could offer. Barbies - you could dress them up, cut their hair, paint their faces... eventually it became our first business venture - sewing and gluing hippy outfits to their perfect little bodies and selling them at the local markets - they were a hit!

As a teen, and a young woman I received stuffed animals from boyfriends, but they only lasted as long as the relationship did.

This little fellow is Henry. I got him from Times Square in New York 2 years ago. He ended up coming along with me for the rest of my states holiday, and now he is a permanent fixture on my bed... sometimes under...

Im wearing a top from Cotton On and Maxi dress from Valley Girl

Designing My 2025/2026 Grad Collection

Rada Priya 25/26' Concept board Fashion has always been a part of my creative soul, but after stepping away for years, returning through my studies has reignited a passion I thought I'd left behind. Now, deep in the concept phase of my 2025/2026 diploma graduation collection, I'm drawing inspiration from the opulence of Paris Couture Fashion Week SS25, particularly the breathtaking craftsmanship of Armani Privé. This collection is about honoring my roots in intricate beadwork while embracing sustainable practices and modern elegance. My design process starts with textiles, and my palette has evolved into a rich tapestry of verdant hues—lush greens, earth tones, metallic blues, and soft greys. Sustainability remains at the forefront, with natural fibres, ethically sourced Thai silk from my travels last year, and upcycled fabrics from local op shops. Faux fur, a treasure from my decade-old fabric collection, adds a layer of texture and nostalgia. Embellishments will include...

The Man I Was Taught to Fear

There are people we grieve twice in a lifetime. Once for who they were. And once for who we were never allowed to know. My father is one of them. When I was a child, my mother told me he was a paedophile. She didn’t whisper it. She didn’t hesitate. She said it plainly, as fact. As warning. As control. When we misbehaved, she would drop us at the greyhound station and force us to spend sleepless weekends with him. I remember the noise of the station. The way my stomach would knot. The terror that would sit in my chest at night when the lights went out. I was absolutely terrified to sleep. He was a workaholic. Twelve-hour days. Long hours. Absence disguised as provision. He would leave cash on the bench, stockpiles of food in the fridge, and the television on - a wild luxury I couldn’t enjoy because fear had already moved in. At home with my mother, we weren’t allowed a TV at all. Looking back now, my father was unemotional, but never unkind. He didn’t ask questions. He didn’t offer hims...

Shorts for amusement

I’ve recently started giving some love and attention to my YouTube channel where I’ve been posting Shorts about sewing hacks, upcycling fashion, trending clips, and styling tips. If you’re interested in these topics or just want to explore some new ideas, I’d love for you to check it out. Feel free to follow along and join me in exploring some practical and creative fashion tips. RadaPriya

Rada Priya

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