For me, fashion is meant to inspire confidence and joy in the wearer. Growing up in the burlesque scene, I am drawn to energetic, playful and bold designs. In my design process I respond to materials, looking for surprises, youthful qualities, contrast and color. Combining material with concept and storytelling is the foundation of my work.
MANTIS is inspired by the mantis shrimp, a crustacean that process ultraviolet light and therefore sees three times as many colors as humans do. I became very curious about things we know exist yet can’t see. This inspired me to create garments that capture that experience: What if we could see this expanded color spectrum?
I created a geometric panel out of beads that works as a carapace, a tight woven structure that connects the garment at the sleeves, neckline and waistline. The contrast between the hard shell of beads and the lightweight cotton voile accentuates the movement of the wearer, combining a playful softness with shifting volume. The surface and edges are treated with iridescent and holographic strips, acting like bioluminescent fins, refracting and reflecting light as the body moves. The sleeves are attached to the carapace by crisscrossing beadwork. The edge of the fins are embellished with beads that act as a weight and combined with the lightweight tulle it gives the skirt more movement while still revealing the calves in the back.