Final Project & Portfolio

 

 

Griselda Jevon

0353958

Bachelor of Fashion Design Technology (Hons) - Semester 4 

Adaptive Clothing (Taylor's University x NanoTextile)

Lecturers: Prof. Thomas Ong Poh Shing & Dr. Alshaimaa Alanadoly

Initial Design and Consultation 

Starting in week 5, Prof. Thomas and Ms. Shaimaa asked us to begin sampling and start working on our toile patterns. We were tasked with developing our ideas, deciding on the techniques to use, and determining where to apply them. I began by creating samples on calico for my first design. Since my design wasn’t finalized yet, I experimented with trial and error on calico to see which techniques and designs would work best for the adaptive garment. This process helped me refine my approach and improve the overall functionality and fit of the garment.

First Garment - Design Sketch

After consulting with Ms. Shaimaa, I decided to use batwing sleeves for my first garment pattern. This design includes openings all the way from the neck to the end of the sleeves, so it will be easier to add the openings by combining the bodice and sleeves pattern. I drafted my pattern several times to get the perfect fit. Ms. Shaimaa also suggested lowering the shoulder line so the back part wouldn't fall down while dressing the patient. 

First Garment - Pattern Drafting

In week 8, I started cutting calico and sewing my toiles before cutting the actual fabric. Making a toile made it easier to mark errors and make improvements on the actual fabric. I adjusted the neckline on the calico because it was too high, and I also adjusted the batwing sleeves to ensure they were the right size.

 

First Garment - Toile

First Garment - Toile Adjustment

In week 10, Prof. Thomas sent us the fabrics, and we chose the ones best suited to our target market's needs. After selecting my fabric, I started cutting the actual fabric for Garment 1, incorporating the adjustments I made on the toile. During this week, I also drafted the patterns for my second and third garments, which were men’s pants and a women’s vest. 

Second Garment - Pattern Drafting

Second Garment - Pattern Drafting

Third Garment - Pattern Drafting

The first garment was challenging due to its three openings with snap buttons, requiring a lot of finishing. I started by sewing the center back together, then proceeded to sew the underarm parts of both sides to combine the front and back pieces. I used the French seam technique for all the stitches. After assembling the pieces, I sewed the collar onto the neckline and attached the collar facing. Lastly, I stitched the magnetic buttons and finished the garment. I chose plastic magnetic buttons so it is lighter. This buttons is stronger and stick together easily more than the metal ones.

First Garment - Collar Facing

First Garment - Pinning, Ironing

First Garment - Stitching Collar

First Garment - Stitching Buttons

First Garment - Buttons Testing

Sewing the buttons took a lot of time because the garment had so many. I made some mistakes, like accidentally sewing the wrong sides of the fabric, which I had to unpick and redo. Despite the complications, I managed to finish the garment. 

The second garment was adaptive pants designed for easier toilet trips. I had seen similar designs on the market, but they often had too many snap buttons or lacked side panels to cover the skin. I added these side covers and used lighter snap buttons for closures. 

Second Garment - Design Sketch

I made a toile to check the fit and mark errors. After ensuring it was perfect, I cut the actual fabric. Sewing the pants was challenging due to the facing, side panels, and waistband attached only to the back. I also added functional straps to assist caregivers in lifting the patient’s thighs and legs, making it easier for caregivers since people with Parkinson's disease often have stiff limbs due to reduced movement. 

Second Garment - Toile

Second Garment - Cutting Straps

Second Garment - Attaching Straps

The third garment was a women’s vest with side openings using magnetic buttons. Initially, I proposed a design with a back opening, but after consulting with Ms. Shaimaa, she suggested removing the back opening and adding a stretchable feature on the neckline for more ease while dressing. I used ribbed fabric for this feature and sewed it on the center front neckline. 

Third Garment - Design Sketch

Third Garment - Marking

Third Garment - Stitching Ribbed Fabric

Third Garment - Attaching Buttons

Third Garment - Finishing

Third Garment - Finishing

This garment is simple and functional, allowing caregivers to easily dress the patient from the top and secure the sides with magnetic buttons. 

Third Garment - Try On 

In the last three weeks, I started drafting the pattern for my last garment. Initially, I planned to include a drawstring feature on the neckline, but after sewing the toile, I realized it was not functional or comfortable. I redrafted the pattern and decided on a new design with neck-to-shoulder and sleeve-end openings for easier dressing. 

Fourth Garment - Pattern Drafting

Fourth Garment - Pattern Drafting

I also extended the neck for added comfort in cold conditions. I made several mistakes with this garment, particularly with the zippers, and had to unpick and redo parts several times to add extra panels behind the zippers to protect the skin. 

Fourth Garment - Sewing Zipper

Fourth Garment - Bias Tape Finising

Fourth Garment - Finishing

Final Presentation

Task 1: Final Design Collection

1. Background Research 

2. Target market specifics (lifestyle analysis/needs/pain points) 

3. Available market solutions 

4. Proposed solutions 

5. Toils/samples, feedback given and adjustments. 

Task 2: Technical Drawing Boards

Aside from the toiles and garments, we were also required to create detailed technical drawing boards based on the provided template. I created my technical drawings in Adobe Illustrator and added detailed explanations on the board.

Task 3: Finalising Garment Collection

Final collection to be cut, assembled, and finished in a presentable way. Professional assembling techniques are expected to be seen within the collection with a final output of a professional collection presentation.

Task 4; Blog Reflection

Reflection on the process of collection in a compiling blog. Blog post is to be linked to the digital portfolio, and digital portfolio to be uploaded to the blog as well.

Technical Drawing Boards and Final Garment are attach on presentation file below:

Reflection

Overall, the process of making adaptive garments has been quite challenging for me, as it is my first time designing something that focuses on functionality and comfort. I learned how to conduct proper research on the target market, thoroughly investigate the problems they face, and find the perfect solutions for them. 

Focusing on garment technicality and finishing was not easy for me, but I am grateful to have experienced this project. This has been an eye-opening project that showed me that, as designers, we are not only creating garments for fashion but also helping people with disabilities. As a fashion student, I often focus on designs and trends, but this project taught me more about the importance of technicality and garment finishing, and that we must also consider the functionality and comfort of the garments we create. 

A big thanks to Ms. Shaimaa and Prof. Thomas, who helped me through this process and provided valuable feedback for my improvement in the future. This project has truly broadened my perspective and skills as a designer. Thank You!