Research

This research segment includes screenshots taken from my A Level sketchbooks.

Project Brief

For Component 01 I intend to look at the theme of ‘Costume’, more specifically, costume design that pulls from the threads of 80’s gothic couture. With that being said I have chosen to look at Colleen Atwood’s work with ‘Wednesday’ for the more modern gothic/alternative look but also the way Atwood plays with the black and white colour scheme and ‘Edward Scissorhands’ for the more old school masculine gothic look, Plus I also enjoy the use of buckles and hardware used here. Next is William Ivey Long with ‘Beetlejuice The Musical’ again for the use of the colour scheme but also the use of texture within the fabrics and I particularly enjoy this within Lydia’s dress, alongside the ruffles’. Then Betsy Heimann and Pete Menefee with ‘Elvira: Mistress of the Dark’ for the silhouette, cut outs and the overall feminine vibe mixed with the traditional gothic look. In order to explore my themes and inspirations I will collect research including images (both primary and secondary), observational drawings alongside producing initial and refined drawings and a wide range of samples. This collection of research will enable me to visualise all my ideas and experimentations, eventually leading to my final piece which will be a suit combination. When creating my final piece, I really want to hone in on the textures of the fabrics and the colour scheme as well as the 80s gothic aesthetic as my main focus and then using techniques such as ruffles and pleats to support the garment and make it more interesting. If I go down the route of strips then I will be sourcing and hand painting my own fabric as my designers did. With my other fabric choices I am interested in using lace, silk, leather and velvet as they are very featured fabrics for goths. Overall, I’m looking forward to this project and where it will lead to. With the being said I will document my work and reflect on my process with images and annotations.