m.lilydesigns
Anachronism
The word “anachronism” implies something wrong, something does not belong. Layers of juxtaposition, particularly modern and historic, integrate into an elegant and unified design to subvert this feeling of “wrongness” associated with incongruity. A voluminous bustle may seem anachronistic to the deflated silhouette standards of modern day. However, this design demonstrates the capacity to reconcile contradictions, the power we possess to challenge convention and create with innovation.
French techniques guided the bustle construction; tucking up and carefully hand fastening fabric in multiple pick up points to create an ornate draping effect. A modern approach to creating the volume of the historic bustle was employed to ensure comfort and mobility. Contrary to rigid mohair, wire, and springs, the structure and volume were maintained with hand-sewn pockets of gathered tulle filled with excess fabric scraps, a minor but significant approach to designing sustainably by minimizing waste.
After defining a concept and establishing a theme, the first step in the design process was conducting visual research and formulating a mood board. Using photoshop, shapes extracted from the mood board were collaged on a figure in copious iterations of different combinations and placements. Iterative sketches were executed using procreate while keeping fabric, concept, and shape placement in mind.
Anachronism was awarded the Dominic Michael Cutting Edge Award and the Saks Fifth Avenue Award