'Abstract Duality' is a three outfit capsule collection created during my last semester of university. The core ideas were refined from 'Inner Sanctum' to produce more accessible and ready-to-wear pieces. The apparel was influenced by the study of 'Megatrends' and proposals of and for the future.
Research and Concepts.
This semester entailed research into 'Megatrends' and the consequences they have on fashion and society as a whole. For this final collection, I examined 'Great Expectations' as outlined by the CSIRO. This phenomenon investigates consumer habits/needs and determines that people are rejecting material goods in favour of experiences. This collection encompasses both of these ideas by being physical items that protect the body while simultaneously inciting feelings of comfort and confidence in the wearer. The evolution of women's clothing has also served as an inspiration, especially in regards to the implementation of pockets and looser fitting clothing. While this collection is not defined by gender, it does recognise the importance of the history of women's fashion.
Design Development and Sketches.
Design development began through draping various fabrics on the stand to form a silhouette. As the collection embodies the idea of comfort and stability, I referenced workwear and military pieces. I experimented with creating pockets out of draped fabric in addition to using pockets to hold fabric in place. I began to toile a boilersuit and motorcyle jacket to serve as the main garments of the collection.
Final Collection and Completed Garments.
The final collection for 'Abstract Duality' consisted of six garments made for the ready-to-wear standard set out by Holmesglen. This collection took a sustainable approach to create slow fashion staples to be worn many times in a variety of settings. The final garments feature an array of fabrications contained within a colour palette and functional elements in order to enhance the experience of the wearer.
The first outfit was a dress of navy linen and corduroy with a belt and pocket detailing. The second piece consisted of a pair of pants made from green corduroy, gabardine and cotton drill. The shirt was created from pink organza with contrasting floral green high neck collar and cuffs. To complete the second outfit, I produced a WWII Soviet inspired motorcycle jacket made from green drill fabric. The jacket consisted of a front pocket, double breasted pocket closure and high collar in faux shearling.The final garment was a boilersuit made from brown corduroy, silk organza and polyester chiffon with a high neck and cargo-inspired detailing and draped pocketry.
