On the most recent episode of Lifetime’s Project Runway, the designers were taken to the Sweetbriar Nature Center and asked to take a risk. Surrounded by butterflies, they learned their task was to create an avant-garde look: experimental, daring, cutting-edge fashion.
Although I didn’t get to make the trip to the nature center, I was inspired by the idea of a butterfly emerging from its chrysalis. I chose Jillian as my model because of her striking makeup, particularly her eyelashes (this was also the L’Oreal challenge, but since I don’t alter my dolls’ faces, I try to consider how Mattel has painted them as I create my looks for each challenge).
I created the dress from black leather, letting it hug Jillian’s body in a cocoonlike way and mimic a butterfly’s body after it is fully developed and ready to fly.
The shoes are from Mattel.
A front view of the dress. The asymmetrical top of the bodice and the hemline mimic the shape of a wing. The gold netting can fall to the side.
Or can be stretched to mimic the airiness of wings in flight.
It’s a somewhat literal interpretation, but I hope you’ve enjoyed it. See you next time on the runway.
Previous designs this season:
Episode 12:11 The Next Generation
Episode 12:10 Project Runway Superfan
Episode 12:9 Let’s Do Brunch
Episode 12:8 Having a Field Day
Episode 12:7 Shoes First!
Episode 12:6 Let’s Go Glamping!
Episode 12:5 YOU Choose Your Materials!
Episode 12:4 Tie the Knot
Episode 12:3 An Unconventional Coney Island
Episode 12:2 Million Dollar Runway
Episode 12:1 Sky’s The Limit
It is a little literal, however I like it. Good work, I could see Heidi in a leather formal!
Thanks! I’d need to redesign it with a slit up to the hip so she could show off her legs. You know Heidi.
I like the contrast between the opaque black and the gold netting. Around here there are lots of lawn butterflies going up for auction this coming weekend.
Thanks very much.
Will you be shooting photos of these sculptures?
Sleek chic! Now that is a real temptress’ gown.
Thank you, sir!
I think this is one of my favorite looks you’ve ever done. I love everything about it. It’s classy and sexy at the same time. I especially like the bodice.
Thanks very much, Gary. I appreciate it!
Have you thought of displaying all of your doll dresses? Perhaps it could be your next exhibition?
I don’t know anywhere that such an exhibit would be possible. I have deconstructed some of my designs and displayed them with photos of the fashion, as shown here:
http://onewordart.blogspot.com/p/from-canvas-to-couture-gallery.html