Feature Friday: In the Long Run Designs
It all started with a regency dress, but since then, In the Long Run Designs has expanded to encompass a wide range of art forms—cosplay, historical costuming, photography projects, and a small business specializing in historically inspired jewelry and accessories.
The shop features a variety of things that would be perfect for an 18th or 19th century outfit, like this demure Regency lapis glass necklace and earring set.
Or these elegant ruby rhinestone and pearl drop earrings could add a little sparkle to an everyday outfit, giving a subtle nod to historic style in your modern wardrobe.
For something a little more extravagant, this reproduction turquoise and gold chain festoon necklace would be the perfect pairing for a Bridgerton-inspired outfit with its vibrant blue color!
But owners Gloria and Mike don’t focus their energy solely on jewelry.
Another big facet of In the Long Run Designs is an exploration of costume photography as art. Their Instagram is a beautiful showcase for diverse costumers and cosplayers, with everything from historical to fantasy to comics represented. Their photography style is bold and graphic, often featuring a solid or brightly colored background with dramatic lighting that allows for the costumer and their work to really shine.
Gloria commented,
“In the Long Run Designs (ITLRD) grew out of our love of history and all things costuming. We started costuming in 2006—with Gloria sewing a simple regency dress—and it has since grown to be a huge part of our lives.”
“We love how costuming has connected us with such a diverse group of talented, creative people. It is a joy to see ITLRD jewelry incorporated into others' costumes. It is also exciting to meet so many historical costumers and cosplayers through attending and photographing events. Being able to showcase others' work through photographic collaborations is a great feeling. We are particularly proud of our 2019 project, The New Kit-Cat Portraits, in which we photographed 26 costumers from our local community in a variety of 18th-century styles.”
But while they collaborate with and photograph other costumers, either locally or at conventions, it is a personal hobby. Gloria and Mike don’t take photography or costume commissions.
You can find all their jewelry designs in their Etsy store, www.etsy.com/shop/inthelongrun
and you can follow their photographic art on Instagram @inthelongrundesigns