Jasmin Couper

“When I first heard the words “let’s celebrate”, music and dancing immediately came to mind. My colour Resene Grenadier made me think of war, as a grenadier is a soldier armed with grenades. Combined, the image that popped into me head was this: the ruins of a post-apocalyptic city. In the centre, a long figure clad in orange standing amid the gusting wind and rubble. Lightning strikes. The base begins thumping. The drums begin to beat. You are in the midst of… A DANCE BATTLE! Celebrating victory from war, winning the ‘dance battle’ and the end of conflict.

The design is a loosely fitted silhouette to allow room for movin’ and groovin’, with hanging straps to accentuate movement. Appliqued 3D shaped aspects and pockets create texture. These are taking from the shape of the rust and peeling paint flaking from the ruined city, remaking the rubble into something new. These will also incorporate features drawn from the padding of military protective gear/vests. The removable sleeves will attach at the shoulder via domes/clips that are used in tactile gear and will be used through the garment.

Further references I have used come from the 70s hip hop influence, which celebrated people taking control of their lives through self knowledge and self expression. The iconic rock song ‘Rebel Yell’ by Billy Idol conveys a message of rebellion and freedom that labels my design perfectly, a battle cry that provides an anthem and a rhythm to celebrate.”

Resene Whitecliffe Colour of Fashion clothing - 2023

Photography by Jonathan Kraettli

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