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2018 Spring Line: Rain or Shine

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Spring 2018 Collection: Rain or Shine

Formal wear inspired by the Pacific Northwest weather

Inspiration: Developing the Concept

Use of uncommon materials as apparel fabrics such as tarps or Tyvek, materials otherwise associated with industrial end uses.

Desirable Qualities of these materials:

  • Structure

  • Water Impermeability

  • Potential for Unique Design Application

The Concept: From Basic Apparel to Formal Wear

Function inspires the form as much as form inspires the function.

The structured nature of a tarp gave way to a structured skirt design that would add a level of formality to a material not commonly used in formal wear.

This in turn, gave way to a line of thinking; What is the one risk of wearing something nice?

Answer: The potential to get dirty. The risk of wearing a nice garment outside and subjecting it to the elements.

So in a climate where rain is a common occurrence, why is there not waterproof or water resistant formal wear?

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A Trip to the Fabric Store…

In favor of a wider variety of waterproof materials, a trip was made to a local fabric store known for its outdoor and sportswear fabrics.

This provided the opportunity to have a greater assortment of colors, textures and structured fabrics including some that could be used to maintain a sense of elegance found in wedding apparel.

Developing the Looks

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Bridesmaid Dress Option #1

A plunging v-neck gown with a gathered slit skirt. Potential to be a shorter dress.

*Note: This dress is still in development and was not completed for the fashion show.

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Bridesmaid Dress Option #2

A patterned Princess seam dress with a dropped waist ruffle skirt. Features a v-neckline with a mock neck collar for an added fashion flair.

Features a patterned uncoated taffeta that is said to withstand water up to 30 minutes.

The Construction Process:

Pattern development, Draping and Getting Acquainted with New Materials

The Finished Looks

Garments in Motion