Here are a few of my final illustrations from my end of year collection, ended up being exactly what I wanted.

Here are a few photos of my final collection. Keep a look out for more coming soon!

Dip-dyed menswear?

So I decided to have a go at a menswear look, after spending hours making basic patterns for trousers and shirt! I decided to make some shorts under my 'natural forms' brief but thought that the plain coloured linen looked boring so what else to do but dip dye them in tea? They turned out pretty good and I'm not in the long process of sewing them together. Keep a look out for updates of how they turn out!

Shibori pleating

I'm not sure if this is the correct term for the technique but I used the Japanese 'Shibori' technique to set a texture in a piece of chiffon.

This initial piece is purely a sample to see how it could be produced on a larger scale if I wanted to within a final garment.

I tied stones into small pockets of fabric and bound together with string. I then made a steamer on my stove and placed the fabric inside and covered with a lid.

I steamed the fabric for 20 minutes and then left for 4 hours to go completely cold and dry.

After cutting out the string and removing the stones I am pleased with how this turned out. Whilst I like the texture of this fabric and how it relates to my brief I think that it could be difficult to manipulate in terms of a fashion garment.

Keep checking back to see if this technique makes it into my final collection!!

'Sculptural Forms'

I started a new project which I decided to base around 'natural forms'
I came across this picture and was so inspired by the shapes. I am going to start creating samples of different techniques and textures which I could use in my final collection which I will upload shortly.

http://1088683495.blogspot.co.uk/

You may be wondering why I haven't posted for a while and this is the main reason why. I've been applying for degree courses and making my portfolio in preparation for interviews.
I have attached the link for my online portfolio.

So I haven't posted for a while but in between applying to university, finishing this project and working I've barely had time to think! so you'll probably notice a big chunk of my work process missing but here is a picture of the finished thing.

On reflection there are some things which I would definitely change to make it less costume-like.

Keep checking back for my developments on my next project I promise to document more regularly.

Pattern Cutting

I began pattern cutting for my shoulder piece a few days ago and after some trial and error I think that I have ended up with a good shape.
I will post again within the next few days to show you how it looks in material.
The pattern piece at the bottom is what I am using and the three above are to show how I eventually decided upon the shape.

Today I began designing a piece based around the idea of armour. I'm planning on using a thick plastic style material to create a structured top, held together with studs and rivets to create structure but layer this with a finer more distressed silk type fabric.

The idea is to create a type of narrative within the garment of a female warrior, by giving both structure and a more distressed femininity.