Draping + Patternmaking
Zero Waste Challenge.
This task involved using a large cut of left-over fabric to create any garment; however, the scrap material from the project had to be minimal enough to fit in a sandwich bag. I took advantage of the striped pattern I was assigned by using the lines to guide my design and minimize waste. I was inspired by the fact that the stripes were overwhelming to look at and decided to offset this affect by creating contrasting directions of the pattern as if ribbon was wrapped around it.
Unprecedented.
The overarching inspiration for this design is contrast. Contrasts in life allow us to appreciate its inevitable ebbs and flows. The goal is to reflect on how both our ‘past lives’ and our ‘new normal’ are vital in giving us perspective on what we truly value about each reality. If we choose to learn from these contrasting lifestyles, we can approach life in a way that gives us the most fulfillment. My design incorporates these contrasts through a puzzle piece and vintage leather luggage.
Travel.
Traveling and exploring new places gives me insight into other people’s lives and glimpses of the beauties that the world has to offer us naturally. When I’m packing my luggage, I look forward to the opportunity to expand my perspective and appreciate the planet as it is. And as ironic as it is, I find myself homesick at the end of most trips; I miss my bed, my family, and the things that are familiar to me.
Quarantine.
Being isolated gave me perspective on the privileges of everyday things I take for granted, like time with loved ones. When we were forced to slow down our fast-paced lives, I was afforded the opportunity of taking inventory of my priorities and could rediscover what is fulfilling. Similar to many others, my family took this time to finish our entire cabinet of puzzles, which gave us the time to reconnect. However, I still longed for the chance to travel to the landscapes on the puzzles.
The process.
This dress was my first project that I draped before the pattern making process. Throughout my process, I learned how to utilize curved seams to flatter the body and achieve my desired look. I also became very familiar with the importance of clipping the fabric around the curves during the draping and construction of this difficult design.
Pretty in Power(suits).
This suit came from a digital design I made previously with the goal of empowering women in the workplace. Historically, women have had to look and act a certain way in order to be taken seriously in professional settings. Whether being talked over or being ridiculed for just being assertive, women are tired of having to take up less space and blend into the background. This design strays away from looks that are thought to be more feminine like skirts, dresses, and fitted suits. Instead, a more bold silhouette and stitched pattern is incorporated with the intention of giving women the confidence to amplify their unique and valuable perspectives.
The process.
This suit set was my first project to start from the pattern making stage. This process taught me how to manipulate my original pattern blocks into custom designs. I also explored the use of shoulder pads, split hems, and pin tacks.
