I have been approached by the independent boutique ‘Aqua Couture’ with stores in Leeds and London to design and create a one-off range of garments based on the architectural designs of certain buildings in Leeds. The shapes, colours, patterns and structures will be used in the design process to make sure the link is subtle but noticeable.
The designs must be unique and thought provoking. The garments will have a social conscience being constructed from mostly recycled materials depending on constraints. This will ensure sustainability and reduce environmental impact. I will choose one piece from the range to manufacture which will be shown in the fashion show opening the spring/summer eco-warrior collection at aqua couture. This means it must coincide with other designs the retailer sells and fit in with a similar theme.
The garment is targeted specifically at women aged 18-26 as the market for fashionable, recycled garments is lacking in this area and this is the age range Aqua couture supplies to. As the garment is going to be made mostly from recycled materials I will highlight this on all promotional graphics linked to my product to generate interest.
This dress was inspired by the Corn Exchange in Leeds city centre. This relates to my art work because my coursework was all about blending the body with architecture. Now I have designed a dress to mix fashion with building design. The raw version of what the whole garment is designed frrom is shown on the right. This is used as my promotional graphic for the project.
My art work influences the work that I do in textiles alot. This is mainly in the presentation of my designs and folder work. Art teaches you alot of helpful tips in presenting work.
Art has also led me to realise how Art Deco this garment is, from the inspiration of the Crysler building in New York. The two subjects work hand in hand with giving a borader knowledge of design and using creative media. I am sure that without one I would not have achieved so well in the other.
I have found the study of buildings and architecture very interesting this year and I am very excited about studying architecture in full next year. Besides this I will miss both my textiles and art lessons incredibly much.
Thank you so much Mr Low, Mr Green and Miss Sadler for been the best art teachers I could have hoped for!
