Analysis of a Collection:
Body Meets Dress, Dress Meets Body
Objective:
When asked to write a collection analysis of any post-1980s runway show, I chose to examine Rei Kawakubo’s S/S 1997 show for Comme Des Garçons entitled “Body Meets Dress, Dress Meets Body”. Diving into the historical context, design details, and critical reception of the show, I created an analysis describing the collection as a product of Kawakubo’s artistic influences and rejection of the fashion industry at the time.
Process:
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Delving into Rei Kawakubo’s background and previous collections, I discussed the major influences that inspired Body Meets Dress, Dress Meets Body.
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Examining other shows in the same time period and drawing from current events, I contrasted the show’s subversiveness to the norm of fashion at the time.
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Using primary source articles released in response to the show, I described the general public’s negative reaction to Rei Kawakubo’s controversial collection.
Outcome:
By researching this collection, I was able to learn more about a designer that I admire, as well as more deeply understand the context surrounding her creative process. Examining the cultural zeitgeist of the time period, influences and reactions from contemporary designers, as well as Kawakubo’s own history, I gained insight into the collection and the fashion industry as a whole.