DESIGN RESEARCH EXPLORATION

Griselda Jevon
0353958

Bachelor of Fashion Design Technology (Hons) - Semester 5

DST63604 Fashion Design Technology Project 1 

Lecturer: Kit Woo

Assignment 1-4

Semester Completion

WEEK 01 (27.09.2024) - WEEK 15 (02.01.2025)

---

skin;

/skɪn/

the thin layer of tissue forming the natural outer covering of the body of a person or animal.

Skin refers to the physical and symbolic essence of human nature. It is our largest organ and acts as a boundary between our inner selves and the external world. It represents identity, individuality, and intimacy, as it is uniquely textured, toned, and marked by life experiences like aging, scars, or imperfections. Skin also holds deep emotional and cultural significance, it reflects our vulnerabilities and confidence, often influenced by societal beauty standards.

The connection between skin and human nature lies in its duality: it reveals and conceals, much like how humans navigate their emotions and relationships. Skin is a symbol of intimacy, touch, and connection, embodying the desire for closeness while also being a canvas for insecurities and self-expression. 

Skin Textures - refers to our skin's surface condition, which usually appears raised or uneven in certain areas. ex: dry/flaky, fine lines, wrinkles, stretch marks, hyperpigmentation
Wrinkles - result from normal aging and photoaging that degenerate collagen and elastin creating rough skin, enlarged pores, and skin laxity. Lax skin folds against itself to create static wrinkles. Additionally, dynamic wrinkles are created from repeated facial expressions that first become noticeable in the late 20s and deepen with age (crow’s feet, forehead furrows, saggy body, and smile lines).

Skin Tones - refers to the color of the skin, and is determined by the amount of melanin in the epidermis, the outermost layer of skin. Melanin is a natural pigment that also protects the skin from the sun. ex: fair, light, medium, tan, dark, deep-black

Fabric Swatches

Skin by Rihanna - LOUD Album (2010)

RnB/Soul, Pop

a raw, sensual exploration of vulnerability, intimacy, and self-expression; evokes feelings of being exposed and empowered - play with the contrast between revealing and covering. It emphasizes the closeness of being "skin to skin," using touch as a powerful metaphor for connection and trust.

- about Rihanna

Rihanna, born Robyn Rihanna Fenty, is a globally celebrated singer, entrepreneur, and fashion icon known for her groundbreaking contributions to music, beauty, and fashion. In 2017, she launched Fenty Beauty, a cosmetics brand that revolutionized the beauty industry by championing inclusivity and diversity. With the release of 50 foundation shades in its initial launch, Fenty Beauty addressed a long-standing gap in the industry, catering to a wide range of skin tones from the fairest to the deepest complexions.

Rihanna's commitment to inclusivity extended beyond products to marketing campaigns, which featured models of various ethnicities, skin tones, and identities. 

Mood Board

Interpreting Inspirations to Design

Finalized 3 Looks (Look 1-Look 2-Look 3)

Look 1: Jacket Bodysuit
The first look features a striking jacket bodysuit designed with extended shoulders, drawing inspiration from the inverted triangle body shape. The interaction between skin and structure can be celebrated, showing how skin naturally conforms to and enhances the beauty of diverse silhouettes. The first look silhouette is bold and structured, enhanced by shoulder pads to emphasize the angular form. I use a closed-ending jacket zipper at the center front for the bodysuit opening.

Look 2: Asymmetrical Top and Trousers
The second look features an asymmetrical top and trousers with a bold cut-out detail at the center cleavage. The top's design contrasts with a longer left side that extends to leg length that complements the trousers' asymmetrical (long on the right side and short on the left) silhouette. This interplay of lengths aligns perfectly with the concealing and revealing concept from my inspirations that defines my collection’s silhouettes. By balancing covered and exposed elements, the design celebrates the theme of human nature by embracing both confidence and vulnerability in a bold yet thoughtful way.

Look 3: Halter Bra Corset, and Maxi Skirt

The third look combines a halter bra attached to a waist corset with a flowing maxi skirt, creating a random texture yet elegant and structured silhouette. It is inspired by saggy skin and wrinkles. This design draws directly from the concept of skin textures, celebrating the natural beauty of imperfections and the unique characteristics of the human body. The manipulated skirt complements the fitted halter bra and corset, creating a dynamic balance between structure and organic flow. To achieve a body-hugging fit, I draped the bra and corset directly on the mannequin, ensuring they complemented the contours of the body. Boning was added to the corset for added structure and to maintain its shape.  

---

Commercialization Concept for Skin Collection

Social Strategy: Embracing Body Positivity and Authenticity

The Skin collection celebrates natural imperfections, diverse skin tones, and textures. By aligning with the growing social movement toward self-acceptance and body positivity, the collection appeals to consumers seeking authenticity and a break from traditional beauty norms.

- Campaign Idea: A "Real Skin, Real Stories" campaign featuring models of skin tones sharing their unique journeys.

Cultural Strategy: Highlighting Rihanna’s Legacy

Leverage Rihanna’s influence as a cultural icon for inclusivity and innovation. Connect the Skin collection with her ethos by emphasizing its roots in music, individuality, and empowerment.

Industrial Strategy: Material Choices

Highlight the durability and adaptability of the materials used in fabric manipulation, positioning the collection as a luxury yet responsible choice.

---

Write Up

This collection is a bold exploration of human intimacy, sensuality, and the natural beauty of imperfections. Inspired by Rihanna's song Skin, which explores vulnerability and the closeness of human connection, inspired me to focus on silhouettes and details that evoke a sense of concealing and revealing, reflecting the dual nature of confidence and insecurities. The intimate and seductive undertones of the song guided the creation of bold, body-conscious designs that celebrate human connection.

The exploration of skin textures and tones influenced my use of fabric manipulation techniques like ruching, smocking, and furrowing. These methods mimic the natural lines, folds, and patterns found on skin, such as wrinkles and sagging, and emphasize the organic beauty of imperfections. I worked with a diverse range of materials to create tactile, layered effects that resemble the depth and complexity of skin. Additionally, my color palette reflects the diversity of skin tones, while the silhouettes celebrate the natural contours and uniqueness of the human form, incorporating ideas of both transparency and concealment to echo the complexities of self-expression and identity.

By combining these inspirations, my designs tell a story of embracing human nature, imperfections, and the intimate connection we have with ourselves and others.