Student Fashion is an annual display that provides a glimpse of the exciting potential of the next generation of Australian fashion designers. It showcases outfits from the final-year ranges of top students from four Sydney-based fashion design schools: Fashion Design Studio, TAFE NSW, Ultimo Campus, Raffles College of Design and Commerce, University of Technology, Sydney and Whitehouse Institute of Design, Australia. This year’s participants are:
Jessica Xie
Jessica Xie’s collection, Adapt, is inspired by the contrast between organic shapes and rigid materials within parametric architecture and reflects her interest in sustainable fashion. Jessica combined laser-cut plywood with natural hand-dyed silk organza and wool, to create dramatic yet flexible garments that move with the body. Her use of materials and experimental approach pushes the boundaries of what is considered fashion.
Kan-Lu Lu
Kan-Lu Lu’s collection, Changes Within Change, combines deconstructed tailoring with cotton fabric manipulated in origami folds to represent the passing of time, and the transition from one phase of life to another. Just as a single piece of paper can be folded in different ways in the ancient Japanese art of origami, Kan-Lu’s sculptural garments can be adapted by the wearer and worn in multiple configurations.
Athena Khanefard
Athena Khanefard’s collection, Táhirih, responds to the trend-driven consumerism associated with the fashion industry. It proposes a more sustainable model of hand-crafted and hand-embroidered garments that connect directly with the wearers’ emotions and identity. Athena’s garments evoke the colours, textures and traditions of her homeland, Iran, while paying tribute to the ancient Persian poet, Táhirih.
Valeska Dominguez
Valeska Dominguez’s 1970s inspired silhouettes and hand-stitched embellishments reference the iconic architecture of the Sydney Opera House. The all-wool collection also reflects her passion for slow fashion. Valeska worked with the Woolmark Company to source the best quality Australian merino wool, known for its inherent sustainability and biodegradability.
This exhibition is included with General Entry to the Powerhouse Museum, and tickets can be purchased online at the link below or on your arrival at the Museum.
