Mix-n-Match Dress
November 2024
Apparel Design, Fashion
How might we improve one’s experience in wearing more feminine products?
As a woman in STEM, my sister Rujia often struggles with finding an identity in clothing. She enjoys wearing some dresses and skirts but doesn’t due to the lack of comfort coming from both her profession and lifestyle.
I designed and constructed a dress for Rujia. Rather than being a standalone article of clothing, I designed it so that it can be paired with her other clothes, and compliments her wardrobe rather than clashing with it
Research
Informal Interview/Discussion
I conducted several interviews over FaceTime where we discussed subjects like her relationship with clothes, how she chooses out clothes for the day, and what she wants to be added.
I conducted several interviews over FaceTime where we discussed subjects like her relationship with clothes, how she chooses out clothes for the day, and what she wants to be added.
Photo Ethnography
I asked my sister to provide some pictures of her closet in order to make better sense of her current style so that I could design something that matches her current wardrobe.
I asked my sister to provide some pictures of her closet in order to make better sense of her current style so that I could design something that matches her current wardrobe.
Mood Boards
I asked my sister to make a mood board out of images she likes, whether it be different outfits, household items, or things that generally bring joy and satisfaction. Similarly, I put together a board of different outfits and tried to add a large variety of styles, then asked her to go through it and take note of what aspect of certain outfits that she likes and what she doesn’t like.
I asked my sister to make a mood board out of images she likes, whether it be different outfits, household items, or things that generally bring joy and satisfaction. Similarly, I put together a board of different outfits and tried to add a large variety of styles, then asked her to go through it and take note of what aspect of certain outfits that she likes and what she doesn’t like.
General Highlights
Sketches
Prototyping
Making
The final dress is made of a wool outer layer lined with a thinner cotton fabric. Adjustments from previous prototypes were made to achieve a wider neckline and boxier shape, allowing for a looser fit and layering opportunities.
Final Dress
Next Steps