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BA Fashion Design
Graduation project 2024





Armature


in sculpture, a skeleton or framework used by an artist to support a figure being modeled in soft plastic material. An armature can be made from any material that is damp-resistant and rigid enough to hold such plastic materials as moist clay and plaster, which are applied to and shaped around it.




In French, "armature" refers to a framework or structural support, which aligns perfectly with my focus on transforming traditional garments like corsets and crinolines. These garments historically acted as both literal and metaphorical armatures, shaping the body according to societal ideals. By reimagining these structures in my designs, I am not just creating clothing but also reshaping norms and expectations about gender and body image.

"Armature" thus captures the essence of support and structure, both in the physical sense of fashion design and the conceptual idea of supporting a new vision for fashion that transcends traditional boundaries.








My project will be a garment collection about conveying feminine power by breaking free from the constraints of unhealthy aesthetics.

My collection is an extension of the Persona project, initially inspired by Alison Matthews David's work, "Fashion Victims: The Dangers of Dress Past and Present." During my research, I realized that some aesthetics often target women. As a female, I have also experienced that society holds more control over females' bodies than themselves. Specific standards have been shaped by a distorted aesthetic influenced by the male perspective in a patriarchal society.

To further evolve my project this semester, I intend to delve deeper into restrictive garments as inspiration elements, focusing on corsets and crinolines, two garments historically emblematic of such constraints. Identifying as a female, I aim to use my graduation project as a platform to voice my challenge against the male gaze in a patriarchal society. Using the "female gaze" from my perspective, I seek to assert that "I am the subject, not the object to be viewed. And my clothes should make me feel comfortable and protected." My design focuses on expressing the inner beauty and strength of females rather than only catering to the aesthetic standard of the external image. This involves redesigning and refining these garments from a female perspective, liberating the body and mind from their bonds.

I'm drawing from traditional corsets and crinolines to develop new silhouettes. I intend to incorporate feminine elements like tulle and ruffles to showcase the unique aesthetic of feminine softness and strength. Moreover, I plan to utilize paper-based fabric for its rich texture and malleability, allowing for the creation of distinctive shapes and structures. Considering sustainability concepts, I explore methods to enhance the durability and comfort of paper-based materials. Furthermore, incorporating cotton padding instead of traditional boning increases the garment's comfort and protection without relying on restrictive structures to shape the body.

My audience is broad and inclusive, encompassing all those who seek to challenge the traditional male gaze. Through my design project, I aim to guide and advocate for an in-depth conversation on female self-expression, positive body image, and liberation.