Shape on shape on shape
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Date
2017
DOI
Open Access Location
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Publisher
Massey University
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Abstract
This practice based design research questions the inf luence of body ideals and
body categorisation methods on women’s body shape, individual dress expression
and wellbeing. Historical and current body type categorisation methods are
conventions prevalent within the fashion industry. This research project questions
whether these conventions of categorising women’s bodies into simplified shapes
and assumed fit and aesthetic preferences is problematic and even redundant in
terms of women’s wellbeing in light of changing attitudes towards dress, body ideals
and gender. New understandings of wellbeing and identity, self-awareness and body
confidence for the individual impacts fashion expression now and in the future.
It is highly relevant for designers to understand body shape and the importance
of fit preferences in all respects, both physical and psychological throughout the
design process.
For this practice based research project two experimental design pieces are
created that consider the diversity of women’s body shapes and self-ref lection of
dress. In addition to relevant literature, this research includes design analysis of
inf luential designers who explore the boundaries of the body and garment. My own
investigation analyses responses from a small group of ten diverse women to gain
insight to the relevance of defined body types and their own perceptions and choices
of garment shape and design for personal fit satisfaction. This project informs a
reiterative and integrative design process of mindful ref lection, drawing, draping,
cutting and construction to create new volume, shapes and silhouette to ref lect the
subjective perceptions of body and dress. This innovative design practice looks to
new ways of design and pattern development processes to create new expressions of
apparel outside of expected norms.
This research challenges preconceived ideas about body ideals and dress, in an
attempt to open minds to the diversity and uniqueness of body shape and external
projection of self.
Description
Keywords
Fashion design, Body size, Research Subject Categories::HUMANITIES and RELIGION::Aesthetic subjects