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?
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
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.
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
