Mela Blue Bija Bigera Project Mentor(s): Andrea Eklund
Mela Blue is a culturally inspired garment that blends traditional African textiles with contemporary design techniques. The purpose of this design is to celebrate identity and heritage while reinterpreting kitenge fabric in a modern, elegant silhouette. This garment reflects both personal history and creative growth. In turn transforming a familiar textile into a refined fashion-forward statement. The design process began with inspiration from traditional cultural outfits, which I reimagined with a softer, more expressive aesthetic by adding floral elements. After developing initial sketches, I took model measurements and began draping the bodice into princess seam using muslin. Then transferred pattern to paper before constructing a sample for the first fitting. Adjustments were made to improve the fit. This garment incorporates several techniques, including princess seams, gathering at waistline to create a pleated, flowing effect, and hand-stitched floral appliqués for texture and visual interest. A side seam zipper for closure and topstitch on the neckline for durability and structure. The bodice is constructed from 100% waxed cotton kitenge fabric, paired with a lightweight georgette skirt for fluid movement. A polyester lining is used to ensure comfort and structure, alongside carefully selected notions including thread and zipper. This is one of three designs for my spring collection. My collection can be seen at the 30th Annual CWU Fashion Show brought to you by the Apparel, Textiles & Merchandising program in conjunction with the Theatre Department on June 6th at 3pm and 7pm in Milo Smith Theatre. More information on ticketing @cwu_atm. Presentation Type: Fashion Show (May 20, 11:30am–12:00pm), Poster (May 20, 12:00–12:30pm) Keywords : Elegant, Expressive, Vibrant, Cultural, Modern SOURCE Form ID: 137 For my upcoming submission to present at SOURCE, I will be showcasing one of four looks from my next collection, titled Wind. This look represents one of the four elements, water, wind, earth, and fire, and explores the essence of movement and air within the collection. An important part of this process has been reflecting on my previous collection, identifying areas for growth while continuing to build on what was successful. This piece is intended to challenge me both technically and conceptually, pushing my skills and creative approach further, the rollover waistband, includes Rhine stones to show off a bit of glamour. Once I found the right theme of this look, I took my models measurements, flat patterned the pants, and draped the bodice, then had two fittings, then I constructed the final garments. The techniques I used include slashing and developing new side panels for the barrel pants to eliminate the traditional side seam, as well as draping the bodice and problem-solving how the model could enter the fitted garment while maintaining the overall aesthetic. Materials used are 100% cotton twill weave denim, 100% cotton rib knit, 100% cotton jersey knit, rhinestones, interfacing, buttons, and thread. This is one of four designs for my spring collection. My collection can be seen at the 30th Annual CWU Fashion Show brought to you by the Apparel, Textiles & Merchandising program in conjunction with the Theatre Department on June 6th at 3pm and 7pm in Milo Smith Theatre. More information on ticketing @cwu_atm. Presentation Type: Fashion Show (May 20, 11:30am–12:00pm), Poster (May 20, 12:00–12:30pm) Keywords : Eccentric, Elevated, Harmony, Striking, Iconic SOURCE Form ID: 97 Wind Tyler Christensen Project Mentor(s): Andrea Eklund
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