PORTFOLIO

SENSE OF DOUBT

Fashion Design│Conceptual Design│Textile Innovation│Design Thinking

The Clusius-project is a compelling example of discursive design, brought to life through an international collaboration between Clusius College and HAMK (Häme University of Applied Sciences). The project stems from Clusius College’s desire to foster cooperation, hailing from a florist school in Alkmaar, The Netherlands. At its core, this project aims to create a wedding dress collection with a profound twist, as it incorporates fresh flowers and plants into its designs.

Involving a group of 12 students, all under the guidance of their teachers, the project unfolds within small groups, each consisting of two HAMK students and two Clusius College students. The outcome is a captivating wedding dress collection, encompassing six unique wedding dresses, where each group takes charge of designing and manufacturing two of these distinctive garments. Within this creative endeavor, one dress was overseen by the author, showcasing the fusion of innovative design and societal discourse.

The essence of this project lies in the thematic exploration, namely “Institution of happiness.” Here, the project delves into the intricate emotional landscape of a bride-to-be, eloquently expressing the juxtaposition of traditional and modern values. The designers seek to bring to the forefront the idea that in many parts of the world, marriage still lacks the foundation of free will and that throughout history, women have been seen as commodities of culture. The designs themselves act as powerful symbolic metaphors, provoking contemplation and discussion on the potential contradictions inherent in the institution of marriage.

One particular dress within this collection, known as “Sense of Doubt,” pushes the boundaries of traditional wedding attire. It serves as an exposition of the clash between the “new and old worlds,” where even the toughest materials are molded into something novel under the relentless forces of change. The dress, crafted from twill cotton fabric, features a petticoat layered with hard tulle on the bottom layer and bridal tulle on the top, adding depth and texture to the design. However, it is the unique tearing technique employed in the top layer that acts as a focal point, each tear a symbol of the struggle and transformation within the theme of the “Institution of happiness.”

This project not only represents a creative venture but also a platform for profound discourse on the societal and cultural aspects of marriage and individual freedom. Through its innovative design and thematic exploration, it invites viewers and participants to engage in meaningful conversations about the complexities and contradictions inherent in this timeless institution.