The Collections Expanded Proposal

Through further research of this project, I have been looking at three other topics related to global context, these are; erosion, pollution and sustainability. However, I have decided to focus more on sustainability as it is what I feel relates best to my theme, and I find it the most interesting topic. Sustainability also coincides with with the Slow Futures trend on WGSN which focuses on issues related to sustainability, products that are built to last, and removing the excess to bring us towards lightness of being. Through looking at this trend, my colour palette has slightly changed. I will still be keeping in mind my original elemental theme of coastal areas which involves blue and sandy tones, however during assignment 1 I was looking more at the harsher blue tones and copper which related to erosion, but now the colour palette has taken a softer turn, where more pastel colours will be coming through and giving the collection a more natural feel. In particular I have looked at the US colour trend for Slow Futures S/S 18, which includes inspiration from Northern lakes and streams bringing through Pantone colours such as Lakeside Green and Salt Water. Both these colours have green/blue tones however they are not harsh, but more subtle. Ivory and Sand are a couple of core colours for this trend, however extending this they bring in colours such as Bone and Lead Grey which are both neutral. These natural colours have connotations of sustainability, contemporary, sophistication and elegance, which is what I want my collection to convey, however I also want to inject subtle hints of soft blues to still give the feel of water and the coast.  I have also decided to slightly change the fabrics I will be using; during assignment 1 I was planning on using more synthetic fabrics such as satin, georgette and chiffon. However, through my research into sustainable fabrics, I have decided to use more natural fabrics, including both plant and animal fibres such as linen and cotton, other natural fibres to consider are banana fibres, bamboo and hemp fibres however these may be difficult to get a hold of. I will also consider animal fibres such as silk and wool, but depending on my budget and my designs I may not use these fabrics.  In order to expand my research I may have to gather more primary images, which could include another trip to the beach to help me make a final decision on my colour and texture palette, and the silhouettes I want to include. As my colour palette and fabrics have changed, this also may influence the rest of my designs, however I still plan to stick to the organic shaped designs that resemble the movement of the sea, but with an elegant, modern and sophisticated twist. I will create multiple designs so that I can develop my ideas further and am able to come to a final decision for my final lineup.