Cephalopod

Abstract

<p>While the colors and textures of this collection were inspired by the octopus's physical skin, the essence is inspired by the its way of living. The hope is for the wearer to flourish within their own skin, relax into their being, and rekindle their curiosity of life. I searched for the existence of the octopus' essence in other organisms and incorporated what I found into my senior collection. Vivacious life is inherently fragile, so throughout the collection protective shapes can also be seen within the looks. This design element is particularly strong in this second look, whose jacket was inspired by the nut-like hat of a mimosa blossom. In order to mimic its rounded design, a high roll collar was created that extends to form the body of the bolero. Its stand attaches to the facing and foam support structure within the coat. The coat was then decorated with felted pom poms and discs harkening the original inspiration of octopus by replicating the pattern of its tentacles. The dress that completes the look draws from both of the inspirations of the octopus and the blossom. Green, like that of a fresh bud, it features long gloved sleeves and corset-like seam lines that flare into an asymmetrical trumpet hemline.</p>