LOTTE PLUMB

Here is a speculative collection that strives to encourage active engagement and participation in the environmental impacts of fashion production and consumption. The lineup works closely with my research into the relationship between absence and fashion; how fashion induces and represents absence and how fashion can be used to combat absence. 

 

Each garment is designed to create an introspective environment that stimulates the somatic senses of the wearer encouraging connection, reflection and a feeling of presence. They act as a curious approach to raising awareness and action around the idea of sustainability in the fashion industry.

 

The unique suite of materials used in this collection includes sheets sourced from local op shops, biomaterial hand made at home and a combination of the two. They were chosen not only based on their aesthetic properties but for their ability to be recycled and revalued. The cotton sheets acted as an alternative to buying off the roll. The biomaterial used toxin-free, compostable ingredients that opened up a world of exciting material exploration. Coating the cotton with the biomaterial completely changed the properties of the textile. It became stiff and textured and could be sculpted, moulded and heat set to create large, lightweight silhouettes. 

 

Although the array of textiles was highly varied, I still wished to maintain a level of cohesion within the collection. I felt this was important in showcasing the possibilities of working with waste materials. I achieved this unity with a colour palette which was developed through extensive testing of natural dye techniques. I adopted a scientific approach in my exploration of avocado seeds and onion skins. I observed how the hues and tones changed with changes in fibre, weave, weight, exposure to sunlight, dye duration and ph levels. I quickly discovered the endless number of colours that could be achieved. This is an area that I will continue to develop after this project. 

 

Although Here is a seemingly finished collection, it very much sits in a speculative space. There is still the need for further testing in order to refine the materials and techniques and I hope to continue my exploration of these further after graduation.

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