Ever get sick of heading to the mall for holiday shopping? I sure do; the controlled chaos is too much for me to handle! I should be used to it after working retail for years, but no…I still hate it.
When Sad Mag was invited to the Circle Craft Christmas Market, I jumped at the opportunity—one-of-a-kind pieces, hot chocolate, Christmas music and a fashion show? That’s a Farah Tozy kind of event.
While researching Circle Craft, I recalled Adhesif Clothing right away; it was showcased at Eco-fashion week Season 6. The designer, Melissa Ferreira is a self-taught, vintage seamstress who mixes patterns and funky appliques with multiple patchworks. She focuses on reusing old pieces, and making them into fresh garments, as well as ensuring all of her materials are locally produced and 100% eco-friendly. Many of her pieces are perfect for Vancouver’s cold weather because they’re made of cozy wools, tweeds, and cashmeres.
This year actually marks the 10th year for Adhesif. Ferreira plans to have an “11th year party because it would be funnier. The more bizarre something is, the funnier it is. Nobody likes normal.”
I had the pleasure of sitting with the talented Vancouver designer for a few minutes during the Circle Craft Christmas Market to discuss her unique Adhesif Clothing Company. She was charming and funny, to say the least.
SAD MAG: Tell us a bit about yourself and Adhesif Clothing.
MELISSA FERREIRA: I started out as a vintage clothing buyer. That was when I was 18, straight out of high school. Vintage has always been my first love and it still is to this day. It’s a constant source of inspiration. The clothing line was the brainchild of that. I just decide to take old fabrics, and turn them into modern styles…but with a vintage twist.
SM: Three words to describe your line?
MF: The look is eclectic, whimsical and classic. Because it’s so eclectic, it remains forever a classic.
SM: Out of curiosity, what does Adhesif stand for?
MF: It doesn’t really stand for anything. I just thought it’d be really funny. I cut myself when I’m sewing all the time. So, I’m always opening up Band-Aids. Clothing’s kind of like that in that in many ways, you put it on depending on your mood, or feelings. It’s not a permanent part of you. It’s an “adhesive” to your personality. I just thought it would be funny.
SM: What inspired you to become eco-friendly?
MF: It wasn’t my intention to be an eco-friendly designer. I just really love vintage fabrics and styles. I love the character of things that are handmade; that have a story aspect. Where has it been? Who’s it been on? What would it say if it could talk? I just have a huge love of nostalgia. Because all the pieces are one of a kind, I have people saying “yeah it feels like a hug. It has a heartbeat!”
SM: What does the future hold for Adhesif?
MF: That’s an intricate question. We have a boutique (2202 Main Street), which is a big accomplishment for the line. I always want to think big. Maybe branch out into Europe. I’m always gonna do this, and its a journey in itself. The artist’s life is not white or black, its different shades of gray.
SM: A soundtrack to your clothing?
MF: I’m listening to a lot of blues at the moment. But I love it all! I listen to music 24 hours a day. I feel like I was a musician in my past life.
Her 1930s styles are featured at Adhesif Clothing Company on 2202 Main Street, as well as many craft shows (the next one being Make It in Edmonton.) Check out the website, Twitter , Instagram and Facebook for more details about Adhesif.