"I’ve designed a kilt and jacket inspired by the punk movement of the ‘70s. Kilts and tartan were worn at the time as a reference to Scottish rebels, so I created my kilt sewing pattern after my own family kilt. The punk movement was all about pushing against fashion norms of the previous generation. An example of this would be a tailored versus a baggier silhouette, like seen in my jacket design. Punk fashion was also very utilitarian and often included lots of industrial aspects like zips, studs, and D-rings. The straps of my jacket design create the illusion of a straitjacket, which combined with the industrial elements shock the observer. My jacket sends a statement of being restrained by mainstream fashion, at a time where fast fashion is the norm. Within the punk movement, clothes are used to protest and show individuality, which I believe I have successfully achieved."
"My design is an elegant two piece set with a flowing maxi skirt complimenting the structured corset, made and designed from block instructions. The pearl bodice that wraps around the top of the dress adds an element of class and elegance whilst still remaining unique and sophisticated. This high fashion garment perfect for the red carpet, would be best suited to glamourous events."
Pictured: Emma holds a frame of this beautiful design, sadly lost in a fire a week prior to the awards event.
"This Avant-Garde design is innovative and experimental—while also being aesthetically pleasing. It displays an aquatic perennial: the lotus flower, along with glass beads dripping down in a water-droplet-like way onto a soft plush leaf. It is designed in a juxtaposing manner with a 3D lotus on the torso instead of 2D, and the dome shape of the base dress. There are unconventional shapes incorporated, which when the elements all come together, creates a smooth flowing silhouette. My design tells a narrative and showcases a tranquil moment frozen in time. The blend between the two contrasting ideas of nature being conceptualised into modernity, constructs a dystopian feel which further contributes it to the category of Avant-Garde."
"My design is a nightlife-intended outfit created for anyone with an alternative edge wanting to hit the town on a night out. My first garment, a pleather trench coat, is both sophisticatedly stylish while still emitting a gritty, dark nature within; made with animal-friendly pleather opposed to leather for those wishing to remain proactive against the environmental impacts of animal cruelty. My second garment is a short lace dress. Alluring yet comfortable, this piece uses a soft, gothic lace fabric with empire-styled thicker layers over the breasts for modesty. The semi-see-through style of this dress ensures wearers are both able to confidently show off their shape while still maintaining an air of mystery and protection. Put together, these garments form a cohesive dark-inspired outfit perfect for the streetwear’s night style while also maintaining the core of what streetwear is all about; looking good while feeling comfortable."
"My design uses siapo, a cloth from mulberry bark, and the traditional Samoan fala (mat). Rooted in my Samoan heritage, it also incorporates repurposed clothing for sustainability. Inspired by Nafanua, the Samoan goddess of war, this garment represents her strength and fierceness, embodying the spirit of the Samoan women who raised me. It reimagines her war attire, known as kipuka blending traditional and modern elements."
"In my mind streetwear is about re-interpreting the use of clothing... Whether that be through textiles proportion, or gender stereotypes, streetwear is about interpreting clothing in your own way. I have created a garment using styles and sewing techniques typically used on womenswear and created a man’s garment. Drawing inspiration from both trendy street fashion and elegant evening wear to create this unique garment that challenge norms of streetwear fashion"
"This high fashion design is intended to capture the essence of girlhood with a sense of elegance. It contains elements of spring but also displays freedom and joy through the light colours and pattern of the dress. The use of flowers in the detail represent femininity"
"Striving for a completely sustainable garment, my design in constructed using ONLY previously worn clothing. These garments are pieces that have come from my family’s wardrobes, worn items that are now too small, ripped or broken in some way. Resources spent constructing this garment come to a grand total of zero dollars"
"I have created a garment that is flexible in its design concept, dressed-up for high fashion or dressed down for urban beach wear. I strongly believe in sustainable fashion, and have only used repurposed fabrics. I am greatly influenced by designers like Alexander McQueen (especially his iconic Oyster dress) and Vivienne Westwood. My final design will draw on inspiration from the free-flowing forms of mermaids. I hope to further develop this concept and create a bold linear statement with whimsical and fairytale undertones, evoking the magical moment when the 'little mermaid' transforms into sea foam"
"I’ve used the idea of pushing boundaries when it comes to concepts that previously were male or female dominated to create a garment that can be considered as gender fluid. My design consists of a skirt and a cropped button up top. The skirt combines the ‘masculine’ trait of tailoring with the ‘feminine’ style of the skirt, and the top has words printed all into the fabric. Words such as SEXUALITY and UNIQUE. Words that relate to my issue and inspire people to wear who they think they are without judgement from society"
Briana designed and modelled her garment. "I’ve made my dress with glamorous, shiny satin, as it drapes beautifully, hugging and accentuating the figure. With a regal hue, the purple tones evoke a sense of majesty and mystery and gives off an air of sophistication. Its delicate drapery cascades gracefully around the wearer's form, bestowing elegance and luxury"