I did, however, have a burst of inspiration during my vacation-- an epiphany, if you will. I was window shopping with my mother among the street kiosks set up down by Waikiki Beach, in Honolulu, when we wandered across a particularly interesting piece for sale. One stand had laid out a shaped piece of wood with holes in the sides and a long, thick string attached.The vendor claimed that it was a pair of shoes. I was baffled by this claim until the vendor picked up the two bizarre items and demonstrated how by threading the string through the holes in a variety of different patterns, one could create a pair of flip flops or gladiator sandals or any sort of lacing the wearer chose. The design was simple and innovative, and it was incredible how many different designs could be produced at whim with unexpectedly cheap supplies (although being a tourist shop, the shoes on sale were terribly overpriced).
This got me thinking. My ISP project focuses on the investigation of fashion trends in relation to social atmosphere and the ever-changing needs and ambitions of society. I've been working to trace the road to gender and class equality through observing how normal, day-to-day fashion has become increasingly homogeneous within American society, and evermore adapted for a comfortable and active lifestyle. Society is advancing with the goals of achieving maximum efficiency, comfort, and usefulness. And what would say that better than clothes that can be made from easily accessible materials, put together within seconds, and convertible according to the wearer's own personal taste?
I did some more research into DIY fashions and convertible clothing when I got home today. It's amazing how many creative and beautiful things can be made from the simplest materials and designs! A large piece of cloth can be a scarf, a shawl, a headband, a belt, a sarong skirt, or even a dress. Beautiful jewelry can be made from supplies as basic as safety pins or buttons. One of my particular favorite designs is the "infinity dress", so named because it is a single, simple yet elegant dress with long straps that can be worn in numerous different ways. Better yet, I even found a site that provided a tutorial on how to make it yourself!
The "Infinity" Dress
I've been planning to present my project in the form of a fashion show through the ages, but this recent insight has given me a new idea. Why not, in addition to sharing with others a look into the couture of the past, also give a peek at the potential of the future? It could be fun to create a miniature line of fashion that embodies the essence of a society that is ever on the move and striving to create a better, easier lifestyle.
We'll see how this goes. I will hopefully be able to conclude basic research soon, so that I can begin the design process of this project.
Happy New Year, everybody!
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