Design Process
In our group project focused on the theme of Barbie, we encountered a unique challenge as we were all new faces who didn't know each other. To facilitate communication and collaboration, we decided to use Discord as our primary communication platform. Before diving into the project, we took some time for chitchat to get to know each other better and establish a comfortable working atmosphere.
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As we began discussing the theme, we explored various aspects of Barbie, starting with our first impressions of the iconic doll. We delved deeper into the meaning of Barbie and the elements that define her identity. Additionally, we researched different brands that had collaborated with Barbie in the past, seeking inspiration from their designs, such as the Sasa logo and Skymart.
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Through our discussions, we identified several key symbols associated with Barbie. These included the concept of flawless childhood packaging, the representation of feminist ideals, and the colour pink as a defining characteristic. To stay connected with Barbie in our daily lives, we made an effort to discover how she manifested in different aspects of life.
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To select the best design, we employed a voting process that considered criteria such as creativity, feasibility, ease of finding the required fabrics, rationality, and the advice provided by our professor and tutor. We visited SSP to find suitable fabrics, taking into account factors like price, material quality, suitability for sewing, visual effects, and fabric strength. We also selected a dummy that closely matched the body shape of our intended model and proceeded to directly drape the fabric on the model.
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For the design itself, we opted for three distinct parts: a bra, a corset, and a skirt. To enhance the construction lines and create a visually appealing effect, we used black tape on the dummy. These tapes served as the basis for styling the corset. As for the skirt, we utilised basic blocks to ensure a well-fitting shape.
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To add the signature black rings to the dress, we employed a thin PVC coating with organza. This fabric was folded into a circle to form the core, while another fabric was curved like a wave and placed on top, resembling a crown collar. Sewing the black rings onto the dress completed this unique design element.
Learning Experience
Throughout the project, we encountered several learning experiences. One crucial aspect was determining the grainline of the fabrics and distinguishing the face and back of each fabric. We faced difficulties in choosing the right fabrics for the design, particularly when it came to the black rings around the dress. We aimed for a shiny and reflective effect and experimented with different types of fabrics, including PVC, resin lining, and organza coatings. The weight of the rings also posed a challenge, as we needed to ensure they wouldn't make the dress droop or distort its shape.
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Despite the initial differences in our ideas and directions during discussions, we embraced a collaborative team spirit. Some members of the group focused on packaging, while others delved into topics like stereotypes and inequality related to Barbie. In the end, we concluded our project with the theme "Barbie out of the Box," which encapsulated our unique perspectives and insights.
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Communication played a vital role in our diverse team, as we came from different backgrounds and had to overcome language barriers. We made an effort to learn each other's languages and used written communication instead of solely relying on spoken language, ensuring clarity and understanding throughout the project.
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In conclusion, our journey in designing a Barbie-inspired ensemble was filled with challenges, learning experiences, and collaborative efforts. Through effective communication, research, material selection, and creative problem-solving, we were able to create a unique design that showcased our individual ideas while embracing the essence of Barbie. This project not only enhanced our understanding of interpersonal communication but also fostered a sense of unity within our team.
