High Expectations
Color and Materials
The collection is exclusively in black. This deliberate choice allows the focus to rest on design, cuts, and materials. I chose black because I perceive it as a protective color, yet also as powerful and strong. One feels strong, secure, and attractive in it. The fabrics used play a central role in realizing the concept: Velvet symbolizes softness and comfort, like a gentle embrace reminding us of our true nature. Plaster, both hard and moldable, represents the rigidity of expectations, but also the possibility to shape and break them. Transparent fabrics stand for vulnerability and honesty towards ourselves. Satin, worked with laser cutting, reminds of broken mirrors – a symbol for recognition, letting go, and breaking old patterns of expectation. These materials embody the idea of high expectations by adapting to the body while simultaneously representing the various facets of our expectations.
Key Pieces of the Collection
Velvet Liberation
Among the key elements of the collection is a long velvet dress with a high slit, symbolizing freedom and lightness. It is complemented by a plaster corset, representing the constriction of high expectations. The laces of the corset can constrict and confine, similar to how expectations can limit our possibilities and inhibit our development. The opening of the corset symbolizes the process of letting go. An asymmetrical, transparent top represents the varying degrees of expectations, underlined by uneven sleeve lengths.
Wings of Change
The velvet top with “wings” embodies the lightness of letting go. Its movable side parts allow for a play between confinement and freedom, with arm movements symbolizing the shift between self-restriction and liberation. The satin skirt was worked with laser cutting and shows a pattern reminiscent of shards and mirror fragments. It symbolizes the moments when we reflect on our expectations, recognize them as burdensome, and take the courageous step to let them go. Like shards of a broken mirror, the pattern represents both the fragility of our expectations and the liberation that lies in letting go. Its high waist initially creates confinement, while the slit then gives freedom again. Like a phoenix rising from the ashes, a new, liberated self emerges from the shards.
Visual Presentation
Capturing High Expectation
Behind the Scenes
Editorial
Credits
Thank you!
A heartfelt thank you to all the talented individuals who contributed their creativity, skills, and passion to bring this project to life – your dedication has been invaluable.
Invitation to the Wearer
Insights
May 4, 2023
Nikita Thompson
September 9, 2022
My First Fashion Show – A Dream Realized
