Fashion has been weaponized as a suit of armor to shield the public from political and social issues plaguing the world. Events hosting rich celebrities dressed in outlandish outfits redirect our attention, making us less inclined to question corruption, injustice, and pollution. The designs encapsulate the idea that fashion is a weaponized suit of armor shielding us from current issues. This is resembled through the wet molded leather. The chainette fringe decorating the garments distracts from the armor beneath so no one questions the ulterior motive behind the design. The project consists of one garment with two accompanying illustrated looks.
Photos taken in collaboration with Alison Pratt @alisonprattphotography
The under corset of the garment is constructed from 100% heavyweight duck canvas. The corset is fully steel boned. Grommets are located at the center back for a lace-up, adjustable closure. The leather was cut into smaller pieces and soaked for 24 hours in water to make it moldable. Using wonder clips, I draped and molded the leather to the body. After the leather dried, I used the industrial leather machine to sew the pieces together. I then attached the leather to the under corset and added grommets to the back neck. Finally, the chainette fringe was draped and attached.
Illustrations of the final garment and accompanying looks on toned paper using guache and pens.
Process photos of draping and molding the wet leather around the body. The undercorset is on the mannequin as a guide. Wonder clips are used to hold the leather in place
Initial thumbnail sketches are pictured below. At first, I wanted the under-corset to be partially visible. While draping, I decided I preferred the look of full leather.
