Owner of Petit Versailles on Stodman Street, Newark designs gown inspired on town’s history for Newark Steampunk Festival Fashion Show

A designer and seamstress opened this year’s Steampunk Fashion Show with a handcrafted tribute to the town’s history.

Hajra Kemari, the owner of Petit Versailles on Stodman Street, stole the spotlight at the fashion show last Friday (May 23).

The gown, designed in just three days, featured a striking skirt made from a vinyl print of a giant map of Newark, originally painted by artist Christine Goldsmith and is displayed on Stodman Street by Newark Town Council.

Hajra said: “I was honoured to be asked to open this year's Steampunk Fashion Show, and therefore decided it would be fitting to open the show with a gown that depicted Newark, a gown which would speak of and celebrate its rich history.

“The Steampunks have been instrumental in putting Newark on the map — so I thought this time I would put the map on me.”

Combining historical references with the opulence of the French Belle Époque, the gown included leg-of-mutton sleeves crafted from silk printed with the Magna Carta, and a fitted bodice made from the spines of antique books, one dating back to 1884, donated by customers of her boutique.

The ensemble was completed with silk brocade, French embroidery, 3D detailing, and hand-stitched jewels and gemstones, all sourced from materials sold at Petit Versailles.

Hajra added: “I received many compliments about all of the fabrics used, with some even wanting to buy the fabric of the map.

“It is always a pleasure to work with the Steampunk community, I really cannot wait until their next event this winter.”

The fashion show came as part of Newark Steampunk Festival, which lasted throughout the weekend and with plenty of activities for all tastes.