Woven Simplicity Experimental Design
For years I have always wanted to try smocking, specifically honeycomb smocking. I was inspired by the film Mirror Mirror and always had the desire to recreate the iconic blue and orange dress from the end of the film. For this project, I made a few tests swatches and decided to primarily work with lattice smocking instead. I had wanted to make something which would expand my current wardrobe and be a joy to wear throughout the summer, which landed me on this summery cotton linen dress.
My favorite clothing is something you can truly live and relax in. I thrive in cottagecore fashion which primarily consists of loose dresses made from natural fibers and are often dyed in colors which resemble things in nature such as soft pinks, greens, ivory, soft blues, etc (essentially nothing neon). I decided to have my try at smocking which has always interested me, but I have never been able to slow down enough to take the time to learn and break it down for a garment. I also have had a large interest in natural dyeing where instead of using premade dyes from the store, different plants are used. I was inspired by some of my favorite vintage designs, specifically Gunne Sax dresses from the 1970’s.
My dress is made from a white cotton linen blended fiber and is delicately smocked along the hemline. Lattice smocking requires you double the amount of fabric you plan to use. The gathered hem of my skirt is 120” in circumference, so to add a smocked hem I was required to smock 240” of fabric. This process took me easily over 40 hours alone and was achieved during every part of my life including in my other lectures, on family car rides, and even on the Muni on my way to work.
Trend Research
Moodboard
Smocking Research
Natural Dye Research
Concept Sketches and Design Details
