JADE
Spring 2025 - for TAM 4027 Couture Embellishment
This collection was heavily inspired by Orientalism and the ways in which it influenced Art Deco. It was during my search for inspiration that I noticed similarities between traditional Chinese costumes, especially those worn in the Peking Opera, and classic Art Deco motifs. I was previously made aware of this connection during past research into major couturiers of the Art Deco movement such as Paul Poiret, but it was only upon my examination of traditional Chinese dress that I noticed just how many similarities the two styles actually share.
Tasseled Corset
This corset was inspired by the frequent use of tassels in Peking Opera costumes, most often in a bright yellow or golden color. I initially experimented with using golden tassels, though I ultimately settled on green as it better suited the collection.
Quilted Bouclé Jacket
The scallop motif used on this jacket is frequently seen in Art Deco interiors, such as on wallpaper or upholstery, and have become a staple pattern of the style. The toggle closures and bell sleeves are inspired by traditional Chinese men's outerwear garments such as the tangzhuang and changshan.
Layered Scale Skirt
This skirt features five layers of scale-like pieces forming a gradient from white to green. Like the corset, this skirt was inspired by the costumes worn in Peking Opera performances. The skirts often have several layers of long strips of fabric embroidered with botanical motifs or other iconography, and tassels on the end of each strip, although I opted to keep my interpretation a bit simpler.