We are HUGE fans of Dublin band Sleep Thieves here at Carousel and we simply adore singer Sorcha Brennan’s unique and girly approach to fashion. We were lucky enough to sit down with Sorcha to talk about her style and we learned so much about how she’s created her own look.
Carousel: Style plays an important role in how we present ourselves to the world. How would you describe your style?
Sorcha: “I’d describe my style as a mix of classic and vintage, tomboy with a girly twist. I love timeless fabrics like denim (Audrey Hepburn style – think Sabrina and her boating trip), tweed and floral fabrics – anything from Renaissance inspired to 1990s via the 40s and 60s.”
Carousel: You’re look is definitely vintage inspired. What are some of your vintage pieces you’ve bought over the years?
Sorcha: “I have a number of tea dresses which I love wearing with tights and ankle boots. I’ve definitely been influenced by the 90s style of Winona Rider in films like How to Make an American Quilt and Reality Bites, but also novels by Jane Austin (all that silk and floral patterns) and any (good) film with style from the 20s through to the 90s. I also have some lovely 70s “peasant” tops – you know the kind of white blouses with lovely embroidered details. I’ve got a pair of silver dance shoes but they were handed down to me from my Godmother, not bought. I have a Pucci dress which was given to me by an old manager of mine a number of years ago. I once bought a gorgeous 50s (handmade) skirt made of fabric with bunches of grapes and vines on it (like something out of Julianne Moore’s costume department in Far From Heaven).”
Carousel: You like hunting for finds in flea markets. Any tips you could give to the amateur deal digger?
Sorcha: “I love colour and texture. If it feels good then go for it. I tend to avoid polyester because I don’t like how it feels when I wear it.
Always check for stains and tears, as it’s hard to fix them. If you like the pattern or colour you’ll be able to use it for something else even if you tire of wearing it. Don’t buy things that don’t fit! You’re very unlikely to get it adjusted (unless that’s something that you often do). Don’t be afraid to be bold and different, the fun of vintage is that it’s unique, timeless and fun.”
Carousel: As a singer in a band, your style also plays a huge role in your artistic life. How would you describe your stage style and what front women have inspired your look?
Sorcha: “A number of things influence my stage style: I have to feel comfortable, which usually means I feel confident in the clothes. I also don’t want to fade into the stage, so I usually avoid black. I like to wear clothes that catch the light and move well – sequins or floaty white tops are good.
I’ve definitely been influenced by Kate Bush, Debbie Harry, Courtney Love (anyone who grew up in the 90s has to have been influenced in some way by Courtney), Natasha Khan (Bat for Lashes), Emily Kokal, Stella Mozgawa Theresa Wayman and Jenny Lee Lindberg ( Warpaint).”
Carousel: Music and art obviously influence fashion greatly- who would you describe as some of your musical/artistic heroes?
Sorcha: “I have always been influenced by the style and films of Audrey Hepburn (I know it’s a cliché but my Dad has always been a fan and passed that to me). I also love the simple, boyish style of Jane Birkin. More recently I think both Charlotte Gainsborg and Sofia Coppola (who share a similar style) are impressive in their pursuit of success and their achievements in their fields. I still have a soft spot for Winona Rider; I watched her films as a teenager (every one) until the VHS tapes ran out. Kate Bush is incredible because she is so eccentric and makes music, which is timeless but so personal, strong and feminine. She doesn’t apologise, she seems to have infinite confidence in who she is. I also love Natasha Khan (Bat for Lashes) because she is similarly unapologetic for being slightly eccentric, she’s a very talented musician and singer and she has gained a wide musical audience writing the songs she wants to write. Her personal style is pretty great too, and having been to her home town of Brighton I can see why – it’s full of amazing vintage stores and small independent boutiques and everyone seems to have a individual sense of style.”
Carousel: It’s Sunday afternoon and you’re off on your bike for a day in town- perfect outfit?
Sorcha: “A floaty floral or white dress, dark tights, ankle boots and a 40s inspired cardigan.”
Carousel: It’s Saturday night and you’ve hit the town- perfect outfit?
Sorcha: “This is what I’m not so good at! I can dress up for a gig but don’t feel as comfortable choosing an outfit for a night out. I’d probably dress down in jeans and a striped top, red lips (my favourite pick me up) and ankle boots. I don’t quite know what the perfect outfit for going out is! But I do know that I like to be comfortable and warm :). ”
Sleep Thieves are currently recording a new album, with the first single to come out this spring. The band will be playing on Paddy’s Day, alongside electro babes Le Galaxie, at the Button Factory. Get tickets at www.ticketmaster.ie now!
Check out more from Sleep Thieves below:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FlmtGJwrCW8
