From Within
“She, in the dark, found light brighter than many ever see. She, within herself, found loveliness, through the soul’s own mastery. And now the world receives from her dower: The message of the strength of inner power.”
From Within
“She, in the dark, found light brighter than many ever see. She, within herself, found loveliness, through the soul’s own mastery. And now the world receives from her dower: The message of the strength of inner power.”
Thesis Statement
Inspired by the profound words of poet Langston Hughes, From Within is a collection that recognizes inner beauty - the loveliness that comes from within - as a reflection of personal strength and self acceptance. Strong lines and soft, flowing fabrics personifies the femininity and romantic nature of each garment, complemented by crisp tailoring and sophisticated flare. Deep rounded necklines emulate a feeling of vulnerability; the state of openness that leads to a greater understanding of oneself physically, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually. In a world that often attempts to break us down, we can choose to live courageously knowing that within us there is light, there is beauty, and there is strength.
A few highlights...
All binding sewn in the garments above was custom made by the designer. The poem that inspired the collection is embroidered in the lining of the navy wool cashmere coat, and all flowers were laser cut at the DAAP Rapid Prototyping Center. Additionally, one garment from each look is embroidered with a word so that when all of the looks are standing together they build the phrase, "She found light from within."
Photography - Claudia Hershner
Design and Styling - Stephanie Hasken
Models - Natalia Rozic, Brittney Dietz, Selina Pluess, Terese Ostendorf, and Mari Krasnikova
Awards and Honors - Recipient of the David Meister Award for Excellence in Design, and the Holzberger Family Founation Humanitarian Award.
Check out this post written about my thesis by talented Cincinnati blogger, Beaux Monde Parti.
Process
Process
Below is a compilation of photos taken from January - April 2016, highlighting the behind-the-scenes moments that went into creating my thesis. Intuition played a huge role in my decision-making strategy as I felt it was the essential aspect that guided me to create a project holding so much meaning and significance in my own personal life. From Within is a collection that reflects a part of my journey through DAAP and the confidence I found as a strong female designer.
Featured below are the pages of my physical process book, documenting some of the thoughts and decisions that went into every garment from initial inspiration to final sketch.
Fashion Show
April 29, 2016
Photography by Mark Garrett & Adam Zeek
Fashion Show
April 29, 2016
Photography by Mark Garrett & Adam Zeek
