Adornment after Rain takes inspiration from the Japanese Lolita subculture. At its core the Lolita subculture has allowed self-expression, bringing together Western and Asian culture for many years. Embracing traditional elements from both cultures, reflective of my own upbringing as British-born Chinese.
The overarching concept was protection and preservation. Asia is renowned for its rainy season. In utilising waterproof fabrics, the wearer feels sheltered and comfortable. My fabrics consisted of nylon, ripstop, tulle, and seersucker cotton poplin and drill. They follow a darker colour scheme reflective of the rainy weather conditions. Deep burgundy tones and pastel nudes replace the typical pink.
My prints for the collection were inspired by British plaids and Lolita ditsy fruit prints. My use of expressive mark-making and abstract interpretation aimed to subvert the vulvic suggestions of open fruit. Symbolic protection from the subculture sexualisation and preservation of its messages of expression and appreciation. A mixture of hand printing and painting digital techniques featured to have the same DIY and homemade element of Lolita dressing.
My collection consists of various pieces. Dresses, t-shirts, pants, and jackets can all be styled interchangeably. T There is an ensemble for any occasion, and all the pieces can be layered and styled differently based on preference, allowing individual expression. Many oversized silhouettes portray the typical petite Lolita ‘cuteness.’