Something About Us by Chiara Faver, BA (Hons) Fashion Design and Development | London College of Fashion | UAL

London College of Fashion

UAL Showcase Collections

Curated by You

Orange quilted coat made out of shiny sateen fabric. Next to that is two models walking towards each other, wearing the coat and a midi dress.

This collection explores comfort through the chaotic and unpredictable nature of Turkish marketplaces. The outfits represent the marketplace which is a cacophony of sounds, smells and textures in a continuous loop, where many things happen at the same time. &quot;Ekinsu Ornek’s work beautifully encapsulates the concept of comfort and nostalgia through a deeply personal exploration of Turkish marketplaces. By choosing to delve into the chaotic yet familiar environment of Turkish marketplaces, the artist evokes a sense of nostalgia and belonging that resonates with many who share similar cultural experiences.&quot;– Ariana Balc and Eleni Issaias

LOST IN THE MARKET

There once was a woman lost in thought, her mind wandered to a time long forgot. 

This project explores the concept of the &#39;Inner Child.&#39; It&#39;s a visual exploration of the connection between the adult and their inner child and aims to showcase how internalised belief systems manifest in an array of different personas and coping mechanism within adulthood.&quot;A lucky person‘s lifetime is cured by childhood, while an unlucky person’s lifetime is spent curing childhood. Many psychological problems, personality formation, and ways of thinking of adults often come from the &#39;inner child&#39;. This project beautifully showcases how childhood experiences deeply impact our lives and connecting with the inner child can help us better understand ourselves as adults.&quot;– Jessie Wang

Dear, Little Me

self portrait of myself through tree branches in the moss dress and pregnant tummy

This project uses still and moving images to explores nature and the body in a contemporary fashion image making context. It is inspired by 1960s and 70s feminist performance art techniques and uses it in a contemporary manner. &quot;Mia Petryszyn’s Mothering Earth explores the interconnectedness of feminism and the environment, ecofeminism. The character, ‘Mother Earth’, allows for the visualisation of the mother and environment. Including a pregnant belly, and clothing made of living plants, Petryszyn artistically explores misogyny, gaia, paganism and feminism simultaneously.&quot;– Beni Berloni, Sabina Im and Niamh Todd

Mothering Earth

This collection explores tailoring based on techniques that can provide a wider range of movement. The garments have been created through the combination of traditional methods and structures created by overlaying different panels, which are then interlinked. &quot;This project offers a fascinating glimpse into the philosophy and methodology behind Kineticut&#39;s approach to tailoring. The main element that interested me was Lorenzo’s focus on movement and masculinity; movement is highlighted as a primary outcome, emphasising the importance of functionality alongside the depiction of male muscularity. These aspects are viewed as essential components of masculinity.&quot; – Ariana Balc and Eleni Issaias

KINETICUT

This project uses personal experiences of anxiety as well as experiments and researcg to inspired the element of the costume and inform the performance it is a part of.&quot;There all kinds of mental illnesses in this world, and there are some microscopic things that are not easy to detect while some people are really affected by mental health issues, causing harm to their bodies and minds. Based on creator’s own personal experience, the costume draws everyone&#39;s attention to the fact that some people are troubled by small objects like needles. It&#39;s a effective way to call on everyone to pay attention to and understand various rare mental illnesses in humans.&quot; – Jessie Wang

Trypanophobia (the fear of needles)

This project showcases a collection made with a new textile fibre from Hanguana malayana, an obstructive aquatic weed growing in Laguna de Cagayan Lake in northern Philippines. It explores possible supply chain additions and experiments with various sewing techniques and natural dyes local to the Philippines to reduce carbon footprint. The aim is to increase opportunities to rewear and reduce environmental impact.&quot;This was chosen because the research looks at how a type of fibre, considered obstructive, was used to make textile. This shows that there is potential in creating fabrics from unexplored sources.&quot;– Marie Nicole Uy

Bakong - An Innovative Regenerative Fabric

Wearable monster costume based on description from 'North of the Hill' (2021) by Evelyn Burdett

The project explores themes of memories, dreams, childhood trauma and mental health through costume and performance.&quot;The costume visualises manifestations of trauma so that people who have not had similar experiences can intuitively feel &quot;trauma.&quot; This is a great way to draw attention to people who have experienced childhood trauma and thus call for care from society.&quot;– Jessie Wang

North of The Hill

Back view of a trench coat with colourful embroidery on it

This project embodies the fusion of traditional Indian craft and textile techniques with the dynamic landscape of the 2024 market. India&#39;s rich cultural diversity and artistic heritage form the foundation for the experimentation with a focus on the intricate &#39;Kantha&#39; embroidery.&quot;The artistry on display captivated me, striking a chord within. I have a genuine affection for creating tiny, intricate projects by hand, finding solace in the process whenever I feel overwhelmed by the stress around me.&quot;– River Reyes and Nali Tang&quot;In this work Khushi wants to enhance the link between exploration, Indian craftsmanship and the dynamism of today&#39;s market, the protagonist is a complex embroidery called &#39;Kantha&#39;. The message goes far beyond aesthetics but wants to extol the valuable work of artisans who are struggling to make a living.&quot;– Beni Berloni, Sabina Im and Niamh Todd

Becoming

This collection represent the creator&#39;s personal duality: the contrasting allure of London, an arena for nocturnal extravagance, and Italy, where the very essence of la dolce vita resides. It attempts to weave a captivating narrative, interwoven with vibrant characters.&quot;I admire Chiara Faver’s work as it stems from its rich evocation of a bygone era, specifically the allure and complexity of the 1960s as depicted through Fellini&#39;s Dolce Vita. Her work beautifully captures the essence of a society grappling with existential questions amidst the backdrop of vibrant nightlife and extravagant parties. The contrast between the relentless pace of city life and the deliberate, graceful existence found in Italy resonates deeply, reflecting a personal duality that I relate to.&quot;– Ariana Balc and Eleni Issaias

Something About Us

A photo series focused on denim and how it is one of the most resource heavy and environmentally polluting materials.&quot;I love how the collages have bright and colorful imagery to highlight denim and reveal it&#39;s role as one of most resource heavy and environmentally polluting materials. And its wonderful that the denim used has been sourced from second-hand stores and charity shops.&quot;– Yimeng Zheng&quot;This work, through the lens of denim (an incredibly polluting resource), uses collage artfully to highlight construction, upcycling, and secondhand fashion.&quot;– Beni Berloni, Sabina Im and Niamh Todd

Sustainability And Up-Cycling

A collection that highlights mental health and wellbeing and is inspired by the importance of interpersonal communication and emotional connection.&quot;Humans are social animals, however loneliness and anxiety are negative feelings that are easy to appear among contemporary people who are living more and more independently. I love that the creator has identified this and said that if socialising is too difficult, it’s better to make up for some of the missing warmth through the clothes we wear every day.&quot;– Jessie Wang

HUG HER, TOUCH HER

The collection innovates the traditional pattern cutting method to achieve gravitational and anti-gravitational cutting in menswear. It explores how traditional tailoring techniques could be combined with corsetry techniques to produce new forms of garment structure.&quot;This project resonates with me due to its innovative approach to traditional pattern cutting and garment construction. The project&#39;s aim to blend the foundations of corsetry and tailoring techniques in menswear suggests a deep interest in exploring the boundaries of fashion and pushing the limits of what is traditionally considered possible within the field. The combination of corsetry and draping techniques to achieve fluidity in garments not only speaks to a desire for aesthetic innovation but also demonstrates a practical understanding of how structure and form can interact to create movement and dynamism in clothing.&quot;– Ariana Balc and Eleni Issaias

RIPPLE

Jeans are based on organic shape motif pattern, they have that oval shape silhouette to it. Shiny top creates a look suitable for a party

This project explores mental health and wellbeing in correlation to fashion.It&#39;s a unisex collection aimed at encouraging people to embrace their flaws and socialise by wearing clothes that are non form fitting and have the ability to hide as well as stand out.&quot;Anxiety may be a negative feeling that everyone has experienced to some extent in this era, especially those who live in big cities. Studies have found a connection between fashion and psychology. The creator shows that fashion can alleviate some of the anxiety, and more people should know and understand this method which is not difficult to achieve.&quot;– Jessie Wang

Main collection - ''Fashion & Anxiety''

there is three people in this image laying a sofa. the image is dimly lit and has warm lighting. 

This collection concept explores themes of black style and black masculinity. It draws inspiration from African and Kenyan tribes and their traditional garments and combines it with modern menswear silhouette as well as traditionally feminine shapes.&quot;Bileh Mohamed’s work impressed me as it demonstrates a deep understanding of cultural heritage and history by drawing inspiration from African and Kenyan tribes and their traditional garments. By incorporating these elements into modern menswear silhouettes, the collection not only pays homage to ancestral roots but also breathes new life into age-old traditions, fostering a dialogue between past and present.&quot; – Ariana Balc and Eleni Issaias

HAWK AW2024 BA Final Collection

Digital Tailoring: Adaptive Trousers for Mobility prototype

This project highlights the potential of 3D virtual technology in tailoring garments for people with disabilities. It aims to tackle the challenges designers face in the customisation process and explores sustainable design methods that promote inclusivity and reduce waste. &quot;This work resonates with a deep sense of intersectional humanity, leaving me astonished at the results. The subject is navigating a relatively unexplored and specialised field of study. In today&#39;s society, broaching contentious issues has become a straightforward path to gaining attention. By engaging in such discussions, individuals can elevate their public profile, serving as an effective business strategy.&quot;– River Reyes and Nali Tang

Digital Tailoring: Adaptive Trousers for Mobility

This project uses sustainable practices and digital manipulation to create beautiful prints inspired by nature and botanical gardens.&quot;Chloe Lama’s work fascinated me because of the research and approach behind the project, which combines digital manipulation, inspiration from nature, and a commitment to sustainability. By utilising digital techniques, the project explores innovative ways to reinterpret and abstract elements found in nature, showcasing a creative fusion of art and technology.&quot;– Ariana Balc and Eleni Issaias

Nature In Abstraction

A photo series that showcases neurodivergence through dreamlike visuals that represent time, memory and temporality.&quot;This particular piece is my favorite because it offers a visually appealing experience to me, especially with its combination of colours, shapes, and forms. Additionally, the way the author captures their experience of mental health issues and their perception of the world, documented through stunning photographs, is truly remarkable. The entire process is impressive.&quot;– River Reyes and Nali Tang

Temporal Echoes

A grid of images featuring black male presenting models in stylised clothing and nude. A still life of an afro comb. 

A photography project that explores black queer sexuality within a fictional third world perspective and the creator&#39;s British Northern upbringing. &quot;Katwamba Mutale’s photographic exhibition captivated me because of its poignant and deeply personal exploration of black queer sexuality within the context of the artist&#39;s Zambian and Malawian identity juxtaposed with their British Northern upbringing. Through the lens of fashion photography, the artist embarks on a journey that delves into the complexities of embracing one&#39;s sexuality while navigating the cultural and societal norms that may seek to suppress it.&quot;– Ariana Balc and Eleni Issaias

‘BUT WHAT I FOUND OUT IS THAT IT’S EVERYWHERE.’ 

image showing projected images onto a wall, same model from images shown stood against the wall with the images projected onto skin

This project is dcumentation of the photographer&#39;s experience of the auto immune disease, psoriasis. It aims to create a safe space of vulnerability for all, and potential subsequent healing.&quot;This inspiring work embodies a truly courageous approach, exploring the intricacies of building inner strength and confidence in one&#39;s self amidst personal healing. The work delves into the challenges and triumphs associated with self-discovery and growth, offering insights into the transformative power of facing one&#39;s fears and vulnerabilities in the public domain. This exploration not only highlights the brave move of confronting and overcoming personal hurdles but also sheds light on the broader implications of such a journey for personal development and empowerment.&quot;– River Reyes and Nali Tang