FOUNDATIONS REVEALED COMPETITION ENTRY
A Spotted Spectacular!
(click images to to enlarge)
Outline the story …
"I'm just getting started darling!" My design was inspired by the dalmatian fur coat worn in Cruella 2021. the movie had great personal impact for me as it inspired me to change the clothing I wear on a daily basis and feel less pressure to dress in clothes that are considered "normal" and instead wear the types of clothes I actually like. The completion of this coat symbolises a feeling of freedom and gives me the confidence and inspiration to be myself. This project seemed perfect for the theme of nature as the coat revolves around the natural formation of dalmatian's spots. These spot formations that simultaneously feel random and yet harmonious. Additionally highlighting the natural contrast of white and black. As the dalmatian spots are the main focus of the coat, for my recreation I wanted to ensure that the faux fur I used looked recognisable as dalmatian spots. After much time searching for faux dalmatian fur fabric, I was not happy with the options that were available to me. Instead I decided to use plain white fur that was the exact length and density I wanted and created my own dalmatian spots. This is the first time I have made a garment to actually fit myself having learnt the basics of sewing by creating simple children's dresses for my young sister.
Outline the construction…
Just as dalmatian puppies are born plain white, my project also began as plain white faux fur. I completely constructed the coat with the white fur before using an airbrush to apply the spots. By examining images of real dalmatians and screenshots of the coat worn in the movie I was able to create a spot pattern that I am much happier with than if I had bought pre-spotted fabric. By referencing pre-existing garments in my wardrobe and using pattern tutorials on Youtube, I was able to roughly draft a pattern which with a few mock-ups became the top portion of my coat. The bottom portion of the coat I created by cutting three large half circle skirt panels, which I then cut the asymmetric shapes into whilst trying on to ensure correct placement. Cutting the asymmetric designs into the pattern was very nerve-wracking as I had to fight the perfectionist in me that wanted to cut everything to be perfectly symmetrical. I interlined the entire coat with a medium weight cotton which made the construction much easier. This being the first time working with both the faux fur and faux leather, the cotton made the fabrics more manageable for my skill level. The cotton created even drape and stability between the two fabrics allowing me to create the structured and unified look in both fabrics. I learned the application methods of both hem braid and waist tape specifically to advance this project.
Despite the quality of the photos.. I admire what You have made!
This is quite clever! As with Nature, you made your own spots! I love it! Well done!!
Very creative design! Love the asymmetry!