week three: leg in

This week I came to the realization of the numerous conceivable design resolutions with the use of stretch fabrics. It was through the requirements to deform and experiment with generic leggings that I could see a shift in both visual and textural elements within the fabric. My new found obsession with stretch fabric has resulted in the study of my own and others clothes, although it may seem intense it has provided me with the facilities to explore and experiment, to generate new ideas. During the events of L'Oreal Melbourne Fashion Festival I found myself drawn towards the fit and construction of garments that incorporated stretch fabrics. The realm of stretch is both highly technical and conceptual and has evoked curiosity in me.

Stretch

v. stretched, stretch-ing, stretches

To lengthen, widen or distend.

To make taut; tighten.

To extend or enlarge beyond the usual or proper limits.

To expand in order to fulfill a larger function.

To extend to full length (oneself or one's limbs)

This short video highlights the transformation of a stretch fabric under an intense load, capturing the bursting release of pressure as it retracts back to its natural form. This motion is inspiring in relation to the human form and the way stretch reacts to the body. In contrast this has lead me to explore the world of body conscious garments, the way they control and restrain the figure in their extended structure.

Legging can be defined as tight, form-fitting pants that adhere closely to the leg and extend from the waist to the ankles. Leggings in various forms have been worn for warmth and protection by both men and women throughout the centuries. It was not until the fitness and aerobics craze in the very early 1980's that leggings became fashionable as gym-styled street wear for women. With the help of cult fashion brands like American Apparel the generic legging is constantly being reinvented in texture, cut and . Today leggings are worn fully exposed, in place of trousers, or partially covered by a garment such as a dress or long t-shirt.

I recored a number of experimental ideas for the legging exercise and am currently in the process of resolving the outcome. The act of incorporating a 3d form into the generic pattern changes construction entirely, having to consider the tension and shape of the fabric over the chosen article, effortlessly integrating it into the original design aesthetics. For me the regard for seams and the closing of the waist band will be the most significant element to consider.