Evaluation-UnitX

Branching my ideas from our Practice Unit, I have taken the concept of ‘Urban Movement’ and developed it deeper into ‘Dispersion’.

Rock Formations

I have particularly focused on the gradation of dispersion, thus through the colour and texture I have found in my research. I have been particularly inspired by Leonardo Drew’s most recent work and his use of material and placement, building on the density of his sculptures through using black. The key element in my work has been my use of blurring lines through staggering drop stitch and mohair yarns blending stripe. Furthermore, through this unit I have experimented with creating more open fabrics using ladders, drop stitch and yarns such as silk steel. I feel this adds a unique element to my collection and expresses my research well, with the contrasting heavier qualities from mohair and embroidered silk tops. This use of technique has led me on to communicate tactile qualities in reflection of my research.

Left: Plaiting with single bed. Righ: Inlay mohair with mock rib.

 Contextually I have been looking into high end designers to inspire my Spring/Summer collection, such as Uma Wang for silhouette influences as well as Balenciaga and Valentino’s use of details and a subtle integration of materials. This is what has led me to combine embroidering into my fabrics.

To explore alternate weights and outcomes, I have experimented with 7 gauge machines then hooked up onto fine gauge domestic to explore different outcomes or density. I made the decision to focus on fine gauge machines for my final collection as I felt the silk yarns kept the high quality finish I desired whilst creating drape and movement for my fabrics. Furthermore, I was happy with the heavier aesthetic I got from the 7 gauge and felting wool so I continued to combine my silks with brushed mohair and foiling to add texture.

The ambition of my project was to create a Spring/Summer collection for womenswear, I have used luxury yarns such as silk, mohair and fine silk steel which give a luxurious feel and are desirable for this market. The choice of technique and placement in my designs reflect sophistication, influenced by designers such as Helen Lawrence and Gabriel Colangelo.

Gabriel Colangelo

To express my work for fashion I have created a garment showing the qualities of my sampling. Using my silhouette research, I have taken inspiration from Uma Wang’s use of drape to create an oversized midi dress. Due to the volume of fabric, the silk qualities are shown beautifully. I have designed a drop stitch dispersing up the length of the dress eventually forming into inlayed mohair through mock rib at the top. Due to the weight of the techniques and doubling of yarns, the top and bottom of the garment extenuate the movement throughout. In order to present this professionally I held my own photoshoot, with the collaboration of a fine art student that focuses on use of photography, to shoot my garment. My aim was to capture the textural qualities in my garment therefore needing minimal styling, especially as a dress is a full outfit. I have developed skills through creating this garment and have gained confidence in future designs. I feel this could lead me onto achieving experience with in the industry before achieving a masters in knit design in the future.

Edit from the photoshoot