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My strengths lie in my artistic vision and skill to produce innovative designs capturing myself as a designer, while resonating strongly with a target audience. I see my work as an expression of art instead of being a product. I visualise the body as a blank canvas that you can customise to become whoever you’d like. Playing dress up has never left me in adulthood, so through my designs I experiment with the idea of alter ego and persona. In my creative process I build a character in my imagination, developing them with inspiration from literature, music, film and fashion. Stepping into their shoes, I begin my design process through sketching, assorting moodboards, swatching fabric samples and experimenting with artistic mediums. I am thorough in both my primary and secondary research, studying relevant trends, analysing competitors and assessing the target market.
I use mood boards to communicate what inspires me whether it be other designers, music, literature, architecture or photography. I find that mood boards help keep the aesthetic and style consistent, acting as a visual guide to inspire others, streamline decision making and convey a vision. “A Fall From Grace”, was based on my experience living in Christchurch, New Zealand, a decade after the devastating earthquakes that took 185 lives in 2011. My collection was inspired by the churches and heritage buildings of Christchurch, many of which were destroyed or demolished as a result of the earthquakes. My moodboards included a lot of catholic architecture and symbolism, classical artwork, use of ethereal silhouettes, romantic themes and fabrics such as lace and chiffon. I use mood boards to not only determine artistic vision, but to identify a target audience. By understanding the customer’s demographic and psychographic data, I can make appropriate design choices and visualise changes and improvements.
Studying other designers helps to inspire new ideas, assesses relevant trends and analyzes competition. Fashion Designers that I admire and found to inspire my collection included Marcelo Gaia of “Mirror Palais”, Franny Liautard and Vivienne Westwood. I also found the designs shown at the 2018 Met Gala, themed “Heavenly bodies: Fashion and the Catholic Imagination” very compelling.
Experimenting with drape and fabric manipulation is a large part of my creative process. This helps determine fabric and design choices that will influence following steps in the collection's development. As pictured, I sourced recycled fabrics from local thrift stores, which persuaded my design features and fabric choices. I decided to incorporate drawstring features, lightweight woven fabrics, intricate trims and adjustable features.
I begin my sketching process by composing 25-50 quick draft drawings. I assess the sketches, circling features that may be added in my final designs. Using this information, I draw a smaller, more refined collection of looks until I'm satisfied with the outcome.
The photoshoot for my collection, “A Fall From Grace”, was set in the Rose Historic Chapel, Christchurch. I chose this chapel as it is one of my favorite local historic buildings that I walked past everyday on my way to class. Selecting location, models, makeup, accessories and props are an imperative step in my creative process as the photos must reflect my artistic vision effectively. I want the viewer to recognize the narrative I communicate through my work, every aspect is intentional. I wanted the collection to tell a story and look like the contents of a fairy tale book while embracing the heritage buildings that inspired me. The garments maintain a romantic and divine theme, constructed from silk and lace, featuring pearl beading and intricate trims. The collection features four looks total, the Chastity Nighty + Bloomer Set, the Devotion Corset + Micro Skirt Set, the Confession Maxi Skirt + Halter Top Set and the Worship Gown and Glove Set.
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