Initial Research

In order to help me generate ideas, I began to look at the work of some highly influential designers. I looked at a lot of designers who used various techniques to add texture and structure to their work, and I was particularly inspired by Petra Storrs’ (http://petrastorrs.com/) predominant use of a monochrome colour pallet, and also her use of shiny materials such as metal and PVC. Her work led me to create my own samples using PVC and foil, to add a reflective quality to my work which reminds me of modern, metal architecture.

I was also greatly influenced by Iris Van Herpen’s (http://www.irisvanherpen.com/) extremely decorative work, which incorporates techniques such as cutting and folding fabric in different ways to create some interesting textures and patterns. It was this observation of the work that led me to explore the technique of slashing into foiled vinyl, and twisting the resulting strips over and stitching them down to create a unique, ribbed appearance. I think these samples are extremely interesting and have an almost futuristic feel, especially when silver foil has been used.

Viktor & Rolf (http://www.viktor-rolf.com/) have a collection that I found to be extremely eye-catching. Thin, sheer fabric is layered up to create thick, bulky areas and is cut into in different shapes and angles. When applied to a garment such as a dress, the technique gives it an almost ‘impossible’ appearance, and it looks to be defying gravity itself by keeping its shape and not collapsing. I responded to the work by using organza in a number of ways to replicate the texture-filled nature of the collection. I pleated and pin-tucked layers of the sheer fabric, but I particularly enjoyed the effect that gathering it gave. I really love the fact that even a material as light and delicate as organza, when used in certain ways, can create samples that look extremely bold and vibrant.

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