Tina Witherspoon Recyles with Style

The local designer is evolving to a new form of fashion rehab.

Local designer Tina Witherspoon (right) and one of her looks PHOTO CREDIT: Mariana Kajlich

Tina Witherspoon didn’t intend to become a clothing designer; she just wanted to organize her closet. Looking for a creative outlet back in 2006 (she had dabbled in acting, costume design and rocking out in bands), Witherspoon pulled her sewing machine out of mothballs and started fixing garments that didn’t fit right.

“I was hooked, combing thrift stores looking for pieces to save,” says the Mill Creek-based designer. Thus, her eco-chic line Glam.spoon has emerged over the past five years with ruffled frocks and appliqued skirts made from recycled fabrics.

But now the green girl is turning to a new form of rehab: dye. Her most recent collection explores vivid, bright hues made by dying existing fabrics, giving bohemian peplum tank tops and maxi dresses with swirling appliques their own patina of pattern. “I am in the midst of a metamorphosis,” says Witherspoon, who is now also designing fabrics based off photographs. “It’s not just about deconstruction anymore, but evolution.”

Prices range from $68–$148; available at The Frock Shop (Phinney Ridge, 6500 Phinney Ave. N; 206.297.1638; shopfrockshop.com). Follow Witherspoon's blog at glamspoon.typepad.com.