This collection titled "Diaphanous" is an exploration of my identity as an Albanian woman, spirituality, and heritage. Throughout the course of six months, I created a collection of six looks that are the product of my research into my culture. In this mini collection, I explored traditional methods of making and crafting as well as new technical methods when I created these looks. Marrying traditional ways of fabricating with more contemporary practices, this collection fused hand embroidery techniques native to Albanian culture, 3D printing, laser cutting, and machine embroidery. The use of gold thread that is a staple in traditional Albanian dress becomes apparent in my work as well as utilizing rare fabric from the 90's given to me by women in my family were used to make this collection. This is an ongoing exploration of being American and Albanian.

Diaphanous Collection Development

The dichotomy between nature and identity, hard and soft materials, and diverse textures are used to create sculptural and organic pieces while primarily deriving from my Albanian culture. Harmony is achieved between the women's form and the fluidity of textiles, techniques, and silhouettes. My designs utilize mostly natural materials as well as materials native to my home country, Macedonia, to create elegant and intuitive designs. Fabric featured in this collection are Macedonian hand woven organic cotton and silk gold thread fabric from 1970, Macedonian velvet also from the 1970's (both of which are discontinued), as well as Malaysian hand-painted silk fabric sourced from a woman owned boutique. All materials included are sustainably sourced. I marry traditional forms of fabric manipulation, hand embroidery techniques, and beading with more modern techniques such as laser cutting, 3D printing, and machine embroidery.
Look One Featured Directly Below:
Macedonian Cotton Woven Shirting Up-cylcled, Silk Organza
Accessories: 24k Gold Beads, Natural Material Beads, Sterling Silver
Photographer: Jim Prinz
Model: Jade Nicole Nelle