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Phase one

For this project I was inspired by the social implications of femininity and the detrimental effects these implications can have.

I have chosen to exemplify this theme through the silhouette and materiality of the garment. I have drawn silhouette inspiration from ballet costumes, ballet is a performance that is valued for its expression of beauty and elegance. With this performance of art comes great physical and mental pain, largely seen in the ballet community. This is a direct example of the struggle women endure to put on a show, metaphorically and literally, and the impact that will always be endured. I decided to mimic the ballet costume silhouette, a structured jacket on top with a bubble skirt on the bottom, demonstrating the duality of the romanticization of womanhood juxtaposed with its true rigid internal nature.

I have chosen to demonstrate my material hand with embroidery in the lining that mimics a corset, inspired by pointe shoes in ballet and lending to the concept of “beauty is pain”. I wish to convey the beauty of womanhood whilst the dedication it takes for womanhood to be seen as beautiful, delicate, graceful, etc. I wish for this project to portray the convoluted juxtaposition of human nature and social standards.

Jacket dress

Phase two

Based upon the initial idea of the objectification of beauty standards that are bestowed upon women, for this phase of the project I created garments that take visual inspiration from feminine stereotypes, turning them into looks that exude softness.

These stereotypes are often delivered in condescending ways, objectification that is perpetuated. by the male gaze and the patriarchal world in which we have no decision to be involved. My intent is for this project to stand as a reclamation of parts of femininity that are often objectified, transforming them as a means of comfort and safety. Imagining a word where we are able to embrace femininity for ourselves, connecting with the intricacies of our identities, not allowing it to be taken from us.

To achieve this mood I have created a look made of 100% angora, 100% mohair, and baby suri alpaca bamboo blend yarns. Using material composition as an outlet to exude my theme, I chose to do the same for the second look. My second look is comprised of faux fur and light denim, choosing material that contrasts each other yet maintains malleability and softness.