’I am not an object’ Is an exploration of the dichotomies of gender equality between progressive Sweden and traditional India. With the focus on interlacing techniques, the designer draws the connection between women’s rights and Kinbaku (a traditional Japanese bondage technique) through sex-positive feminism.
After visiting India in January 2014, the designer spoke with locals over different states about the lifestyle of a female growing up and living in India. if a female survives feticide and infanticide they will most likely be subjected to oppression, violence, sexual abuse, dowry-related murder, eve-teasing, sex trafficking, and many more horrible situations in the coming years of their lives. Is this what life is like for young girls and women in India?
The collection celebrates powerful women, feminism, the female hero/warrior/fighter protagonist, the brave, intellectual and successful goddesses through a bold series of highly detailed fashion wearables.
Aesthetically championing the Avant Garde and craftsmanship, this collection is inspired by Scandinavia's dark landscapes and India's rich history of textile applications.
Designed and made by Melissa Barrass
Materials used: Second-hand leather (not direct from tannery), hand-dyed cotton rope from India, 50% silk 50% linen blend fabric
Thanks to the team: Photography by Paul Leonardo, hair & makeup by Glenn O'Reilly and the model is Mona Meirop.
<aside> <img src="https://s3-us-west-2.amazonaws.com/secure.notion-static.com/6d40a103-2a84-4ba2-bd91-083e911664d8/aboriginal-flag.svg" alt="https://s3-us-west-2.amazonaws.com/secure.notion-static.com/6d40a103-2a84-4ba2-bd91-083e911664d8/aboriginal-flag.svg" width="40px" /> I am grateful to live & create on the lands of the Awabakal nation
Melissa Barrass © 2024
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