Unsung Objects

A model stands against a black backdrop, wearing a gothic-inspired ensemble. The dress consists of an assortment of deep black and rich plum tones along with dusty purple and gray secondhand lace, recycled drapes, and satins. The fitted corset of the bodice features an assemblage of embroidery and beading. The train of her skirt twists around to the front surrounding her feet and showcasing the variety of fabrics making up the train.

My project consists of four separate fully adjustable garments.

The train consists of an assortment of hand-dyed lace, thrifted curtains, and fabric remnants.

The model stands against a black backdrop, wearing the ensemble without the detachable train. Without the addition, the look is given a new punk undertone. It is now a miniskirt and features layers of short asymmetrical ruffles made of black lace and deep purple satin. Its waistband features a series of buttons attaching it to the bodice.

The jacket has asymmetrical lace-up sleeves and attaches to the bodice with a series of buttons.

The model poses against a black background wearing the ensemble, now without the jacket, revealing the strapless corset it was attached to, as well as the corset's lace-up sides.

The miniskirt attaches to the bodice with a series of mismatched buttons and adjustable side buckles

Detailed close-up of the assemblage featured on the front of the bodice. It consists of black and deep violet layered lace appliqué, embroidered swirls, and hand-sewn beading, underscored by the various found objects dispersed throughout. These include zipper pulls, mismatched buttons, and a spiral of zipper-teeth detailing that travels across the bodice. In the center of it is the feed dog plate from an industrial sewing machine seamlessly incorporated.

Finally, the corseted bodice features assemblage embroidery which incorporates found objects.

My collection focuses on the idea of all that we choose to discard and the very essence of our concept of usefulness. Fabricated from old tablecloths and curtains, off-cuts from old projects of my own and those of friends, as well as other secondhand fabrics, notions, and embellishments, my collection shows what levels of unbounded creativity are made possible by employing a no-man-left-behind approach to all that we create.