Rachel Jean

Juried Exhibition Work

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2015 American Association of Family & Consumer Sciences Apparel Design & Textiles Exhibtion - " Taj MODhal "

Taj MODhal is a contemporary, 1960’s silhouette design that draws heavily on the motif of the cyclical. Both the Zen concept of the circular ensō (a visual symbol of enlightenment) and the Hindu belief in saṃsāra (the cycle of life, death, and rebirth) were core inspirations for skirt shape and surface design. The skirt is combined with the multi-layered, mod-inspired long-sleeve turtleneck and open-back sleeveless blouse. Cinching the look together at its visual center is the waistband, which was created using an altered version of the Japanese technique: shibori. Rather than dyeing fabric to employ the surface design technique, bleach was applied to dark synthetic polyester to remove color and create an aged, handcrafted, ring pattern.

2015 International Fiber Recycling Symposium Design Competition - "The Gradient of Eternal Transmogrification"

The Gradient of Eternal Transmogrification was inspired by genetic mutations, reincarnation, and the metamorphosis of insects. The garment body is a form-fitted bustier attached to a circle skirt at the waistline. The bustier has top stitching detail while the skirt section is composed of multi-layered fabrics – creating gradient. The detachable flared skirt has six holes for several visual interpretations.