BLOOD SWEAT & TEARS - FDSA SP23

As my time at the University of Georgia came to an end, I completed my final runway show for the Fashion Design Student Association. My starting point was an old, worn out Ralph Lauren denim button-down given to me by my dad. From here, I began to explore how a designer brand and the durable fabric could fit into FDSA's Spring theme, "Blood, Sweat, and Tears". From blue collar labor, to corporate office wear, to a woman's "traditional" role in the home, I drew inspiration from conventional textiles used across professions. As the U.S. becomes increasingly segmented economically and socially, we continue to debate the value and definition of the American Dream and American Royalty across all classes, genders, races, and religion. I aimed to show the juxtapositions and parallels of each caste by pairing fabrics and design details that are typically associated with each class and profession.

Textile Story:

Denim is a textile primarily developed for manual laborers and blue collar workers, whereas the pinstriped suiting fabric on the under layer of the skirt is most commonly used in corporate office apparel. These fabrics used side-by-side create a contrast between the typical class levels in America.

Furthermore, the delicate white drapery fabric, braided trims, and pearl accents juxtapose the conventionally masculine fabrics previously highlighted.

Silhouette Story:

 I focused on the idea of American Royalty by creating a silhouette with frills, layers, and exaggeration. The double-layered collar, ruffled bust details, and oversized sleeves are a nod to Renaissance-era fashion among the ruling class. I added boning for a structured, bustier fit to contrast with the formerly relaxed fit of the denim button down that was used as the base of the design.

LOOK 1:

LOOK 2: