Story by Angela Bonilla and Benita Ozoude
Photos by Benita Ozoude
Crazy patterns, imaginative cuts and eye-catching colors are what “Alice in Wonderland” does best.
This year, the University of Texas at Austin’s Harry Ransom Center (HRC) is showcasing the treasured story of Alice’s journey down the rabbit hole with the exhibition “Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland,” which is available for free to the public until July.
The exhibition includes one of the few surviving copies of Lewis Carroll’s “Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland” and other pieces of the story’s history, like film strips, most of which were donated from Warren Weaver and Susan Sewell’s extensive collections. The exhibition also has a variety of interactive components to entertain younger audiences. Children can have a tea party, read different versions of “Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland” or make paper origami of their favorite Wonderland characters.
In addition to figurines and manuscripts, the exhibition illustrates the changes “Alice” has gone through over time. Alice’s own style evolved from bright colors and full skirts in the 1950s cartoon feature to more whimsical and subdued colors in the 2010 Tim Burton version of the film.
Here are some ways to incorporate “Alice in Wonderland”-inspired fashion into your everyday wardrobe.
Alice
Dress like Alice by wearing a flowy skirt in a shade of blue with a white chiffon shirt or a blue dress with white accents. Pair your skirt or dress with black flats, oxfords or Mary Janes for the summer. Finish off the look by loosely tying a black ribbon in your hair.
Queen of Hearts
For a more intense look, find inspiration from the Queen of Hearts. Focus on wearing dark contrasting colors like vivid reds and black. For the summer, pair a light black and red flannel with denim shorts and combat boots to emulate the Queen’s power and passion. To accessorize, wear round sunglasses, red lipstick and a black crossbody purse.
Mad Hatter
The Mad Hatter is a colorful and interesting character, made especially popular by Johnny Depp in the Tim Burton version. To channel the hatter’s manic into your everyday look, incorporate vivid colors like teal, pink, and orange. For the spring, wear a basic color pant with a bright top and light accent scarf. Pair with a brightly colored crossbody.
Cheshire Cat
Over the years, the Cheshire Cat has been depicted as both pink with purple and blue with black. Because the cat is a curious and magical creature, a Cheshire Cat-inspired look would be best for the nighttime. Pick a solid colored dress and pair it with a black blazer or cardigan, black shoes and dark nails.
White Rabbit
Since the White Rabbit is always on the go, this look can be worn to class or to hang out on South Congress with friends. Piece together boyfriend jeans with a graphic shirt, and a sweater or a vintage flannel for spring. Converse are the ideal relaxed shoes to wear with this outfit and look great with a pair of dark tinted round sunglasses. Don’t forget to grab a backpack and — of course — a watch.
Whether you’re at a tea party in Wonderland or just kicking it in Austin, these looks will add some madness and whimsy to your everyday wardrobe. Try one of the looks when you journey through “Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland” at the Ransom Center, on display through July 6.
