Rococo In Materiality Collection III

Rococo In Materiality Collection III

Rococo In Materiality Collection III is an innovative fashion collection that masterfully reinterprets the ornate Rococo movement through a contemporary minimalist lens, created by designer Jihyun Kim. This groundbreaking collection, which earned a Bronze A' Design Award in the Fashion, Apparel and Garment Design category, consists of eleven distinct looks that ingeniously blend historical references with modern aesthetics. The collection's distinctive characteristic lies in its sophisticated use of contrasting materials, including stretch blended wool, tinsel knit, cotton, neoprene, paper, and vinyl, all rendered in a striking black and white palette that emphasizes its minimalistic vision. The designs feature oversized silhouettes and rounded forms adorned with strategic ruffle details, creating a contemporary interpretation of Rococo's theatrical essence. Notable elements include oversized puff-sleeve neoprene dresses, elaborate ruffle compositions, and innovative combinations such as straight pants paired with tinsel knit tops and hoodie sweatshirts complemented by plasticky skirts. Developed between November 2017 and February 2018 in New York, the collection emerged from extensive research into costume history, particularly focusing on the transitional period between Baroque and Rococo styles. The designer's approach successfully bridges historical costume elements with contemporary art principles, resulting in a collection that addresses both artistic expression and commercial viability. The work demonstrates exceptional material innovation and design consistency, earning recognition from the prestigious A' Design Award for its contribution to fashion design excellence and its unique approach to merging historical inspiration with modern minimalism.

fashion design, contemporary minimalism, rococo interpretation, material innovation, textile contrast, architectural silhouettes

— Adam Dawson