Aquatic Escapism is based on the feelings of relaxation and contentment that can be achieved when at the water’s edge. My design ideas have been inspired by happy, holiday memories of swimming and lying on the beach or by the pool. My collection represents leisure and enjoyment.
The primary research stage of my project consisted of painting watercolour illustrations of people on my beach holiday. I also created illustrations of my friend and I at the local swimming pool. I mixed these drawings with swimming pool textures and tropical foliage to create dream-like swimming pool scenes. These square scenes were printed onto silk scarves, which are designed to be the perfect holiday accessory. The scarves have a vintage glamour and nostalgic feel to them and are aimed at a sophisticated market level. I designed and made a small, leather, travel bag to go with my scarves and all together these pieces fall into the women’s resort wear category.
I created a separate print collection which is aimed at men’s resort wear. This collection is made up of graphic style prints and was screen-printed by hand. It involves block shapes and silhouettes taken from my diving photographs. I aimed to create something out of the ordinary, with edgy print and colour ideas. I have recreated these designs digitally to show the ways I would place the print on different garment shapes.
Scarf 1 - I printed all of my swimming pool scenes onto Silk Twill. The scarfs are designed for women's resort wear and each depict idyllic images of my holiday memories.
Scarf 2
Scarf 3
Scarf 4