Spring/Summer 2019 Collection
Women empowerment is the concept of this collection. The definition of which I wanted to evoke through the innate power the comes with being a woman. Owning that as the individual’s strength, not to shy away from but to embrace. I took inspiration from nature in shaping the silhouettes of the pieces, mimicking the beauties of Mother Earth that are constantly growing around us. Flowers in the process of blooming, plants erupting from seeds, shells opening. This is also to symbolize women gaining more equity in society, a change in leadership. The use of white harks back to the suffragists as well as representing a new beginning. There is a theme of hard vs. soft in the collection; symbolizing the nurturer and the warrior within every woman. Showcasing the sensitive, intuitive traits, in combination with those of assertive bravery and persistence. Achieving an overall balance of two strengths that are essential to her being.
Transparent, delicate chiffon and mesh indicate vulnerability and openness. Factors that are necessary to telling her story, connecting with others and expressing sympathy.
Leather, armor like pieces represent the shield she must wear in her fight for equality. The strength she must show to prove her capabilities in a male dominated society.
Painted strokes of radiating color symbolize the giver of life that she is; growing with change and full of vitality.
Stage Wear
This stage wear outfit was designed and made specifically for Nicole Kiki Jaffe to her song “The Lion’s Den”. As a visual interpretation of the song, it represents a fierce transformation of the self, a metaphoric shedding of skin to allow new growth. It’s the strength it takes to emerge powerful after overcoming a loss, like a flaming Phoenix reborn out of ashes.
Costume Design
Costume Design contest entry for Metropolitan Fashion Week 2017.
The inspiration for this design comes from the 2012 film Snow White and the Huntsman. Mainly focusing on the character Queen Ravenna but also deriving inspiration from the overall mood of the film. Neutral & dreary tones were used to reflect the mood and character. Focus was put onto the symbolic elements that Colleen Atwood evoked in Queen Ravenna's costumes. The use of black, rooster feathers was taken from the queen's cloak and represents concept for the character being made of darkness and decay. This juxtaposes the sheen silk dress under it, that exemplifies royalty but more importantly the beauty of youth that the queen consistently craves. Sharp, pointed V shapes can be seen all through out the costume which represent darkness in the form of a stinger and draw the focus of the eye down the piece. Black cage like pieces of this design have several intentions. They were inspired by the skeletal structures used on the Queen's wedding dress but also represent the armor worn as an empowered female warrior; as Snow White becomes one in this film herself.
