The Sea Collector | WattsWear

The Sea Collector By: Niejia Watkins

This outfit is all about the blue hues inspired by my traditional birthstone, blue topaz. My birthstone has always resembled the sea to me and I love how it represents me. I especially took inspiration from The Little Mermaid and how Ariel collects things. You can see this parallel in each piece of this look, from the thrifted scarves, the stones sewn into the thrifted top, to the blue converse I borrowed from a close-friend. Read more to find out how each piece was made and curated!

Reworked Off-The-Shoulder High Low Drape Top

For this outfit breakdown, I'm especially highlighting this reworked high-low, off-the-shoulder top that I discovered at a thrift store originally as a shawl. The wave-like fabric made it a unique find and it served as the inspiration for the rest of the outfit, creating a stylish and effortless look. Ideas of adding stones and seashells immediately crossed my mind. I then took two pieces of ribbon lace to tie the front half up, creating an extreme-cropped top in the front and left the rest of the top to tell a story in the back.

Layered, Tattered Maxi Skirt

My layered tattered maxi skirt emanates a nomadic mermaid who travels the seas to collect various fabrics. I put together three scarves and one shawl to create a statement-making piece that is both stylish and comfortable. Each fabric brings something unique to the skirt, adding depth and texture to the look. I finished the piece with a ribbon to tie the sides together and leaving a side completely open, making it friendly to different sizes.

Skirt Close-Up -- Top Layers

Skirt Close-Up -- Bottom Layers

The Sea's Collector's MadMystic Wristlet

For this outfit breakdown, I wanted to highlight my favorite statement accessory - a custom wristlet ring bracelet made by the talented Maddie Bramer, owner of MadMystic. The design was a collaborative effort between MadMystic and myself, inspired by the ocean. I feel like the piece was everything I wanted out of it, plus some. From the pearls and gems to the gold brooches, these intricate details made my hand a star of the show. You can find more of MadMystic here! You'll find options for custom work as well.

Borrowed Sky Blue All-Star Converse

While you heavily incorporated my idea into your work, what part of the wristlet do you feel has that MadMystic touch/signature?

First of all, I appreciate when an artist/customer comes to me with a mood board and I was STUNNED with the one I received for this project. The hand stitching is the method that I've always preferred over a sewing machine. I also appreciated the creative freedom I was given to allow this piece to feel like something I was truly proud to make. I think hand stitching allows for a more personal feel and is better for incorporating energy into the medium.

MADMYSTIC Q&A

I was lucky enough to ask Maddie, owner of MadMystic and dear friend, a few questions about the wristlet! Check out her answers here for a more detailed insight!

Bae wearing my birthstone :)

The Sea Collector's Jewels featuring my Vovo's bracelet and my DIY Waist Beads

Thrifted Belt and Gifted Socks