Gleaming Gills

Abstract

The purpose of this garment was to create an edgy formal wear gown that is inspired by the off-kilter fashion style of Avant Guarde that captures the innovation of new concepts and techniques that can be described as bulging shoulders, accentuated waistlines, three dimensional figures protruding from the garment and many other techniques that push the boundaries of every day attire. While many aspects of the Avant Guarde style are unrealistic and uncommon in evening gowns, I have taken elements such as objects protruding from the garments and compressed them into subtle but exquisite details making this garment easily wearable and mainstream.Since the two main fabric choices of sequin and brocade are not often used together, it was my intention to mix them and create a hard and soft contrast between the two. The purpose of this garment was to also expand my knowledge of working with several fabrics that are unfamiliar to me and to construct a cohesive and dynamic formal wear gown.Before the sketching process started, design-provoking images were collected and inspirational design elements gleaned. This ensemble was created with the Avant Guarde style in mind. Since these types of pieces are usually off kilter and unrealistic, I chose to bring to life a melodious version of the style. In order to incorporate the Avant Guarde style into the outfit, subtle protruding gill-like panels were created to accentuate the hips and to add innovation to the overall design.While choosing the colors and fabrics, I took into account the fluidity of the fabrics with each other and made sure the hue of the rose gold in the sequin and brocade were in harmony. Multiple fittings were required during the sample stage as well as on the final garment to ensure 131