origami.

   

The Japanese art of Origami served as my inspiration this week. This idea came to me during a draping session in my studio class. I used paper as my non-woven material and folded it to create dimension and geometric shapes.

 

Fashion genius John Galliano also used Japanese origami as inspiration for his couture collection in 2007. This is definitely one of my favorite runway shows; everything from the extravagant gowns to the styling and makeup -- was absolutely perfect. It was a fantastical land of modern geishas.

 

'Sublime. Paper Fashion' by Petra Storrs

 Sandra Backlund

My draping became an origami-esque bodice with asymmetrical balance and angular lines. I love the idea of using something as plain as white paper to create an intricate sculptural form. This paper bodice also served as inspiration for my 1910's inspired collection. Although angular lines and geometric shapes were not used in the 1910's, I wanted to incorporate these design details into my modernized version of 1910's clothing. I combined sculptural bodices with light, flowy skirts or merged it with pants to form a jumpsuit. The geometric shapes can also be translated into different textures of fabric patched together to form a deconstructed jacket.

It is amazing what one simple drape can develop into! The 1910's was a period of Orientalism and instead of repeating what was done in the past, I guess my new Oriental inspiration is the art of orgami.