Abstract
While this essay specifies the brown dress in the line-up, there are many techniques described that can be found in all 3 of the pieces in this collection.
Key words: Neurodivergent, Compression, Masking, Sensory Issues, Symbolism
Statement of Purpose
This dress is a representation of one who identifies as a feminine neurodivergent young adult by tying in principles of designs through symbolism. The factors chosen to be symbolized throughout this garment represent common elements from a neurodivergent individual's everyday lifestyle which impact their daily experiences. The design is not only made to bring light to these, but also to create a positive impact on the wearers experience while being worn. This was done by using design aspects to work with common neurodivergent experiences like sensory issues, and mental health.
Aesthetic Properties and Visual Impact
I chose to create a dress for this garment to tie in the feminine aspect of my chosen identity into the overall silhouette of this design. The straps were designed to incorporate an infinity, a symbol used to represent the neurodivergent mind being something that does not need to be “cured” (Hookway, 2023). Lines which can be seen in bustier’s seams can be described as symmetrical or balanced. This was done to highlight sensory issues that are very common and can be triggered by one small thing out of place. The form of the bustier was intended to create a compression effect that can be used in relieving certain sensory issues. (Otsimo, 2021). The color pallet of this design was chosen to match an autumn scenery with the intentions of this being in a fall collection. This was done to represent the act of masking, something done in neurodivergent individuals' daily lives to “blend into” society (Radulski, 2022).
Process, Technique, and Execution
This design was executed by draping onto a dress form using muslin starting with the internal support bodice followed by the outer garment. After the initial drape was created adjustments and corrections were made then re pinned to the dress form. From the draped muslin a pattern including lining was created for the fashion fabric of the final garment. For the internal support bodice ridgeline boning was sewn into each seam to create structure. The straps for this garment consist of two individual straps on each shoulder which overlap at the top of the shoulder to create the infinity symbol illusion. The skirt of the dress consists of two layers. The first layer is made from the fabric of the bustier top, and is fitted with a shorter length. The second layer is a circle skirt made from a lightweight sheer fabric which is longer.
Cohesion
To incorporate the feminine aspect of my individual's identity into my design I created a dress consisting of elements that would be considered feminine. These consist of the fitted bodice, revealing straps, and the sheer flowy addition to the skirt. All of these also contribute to symbolism seen throughout the dress. The infinity symbol represented by the straps is a reference to the “rainbow infinity” which often is identified with autism, but also promotes awareness for all individuals under the neurodivergent umbrella (Hookway, 2023). The bustier of the dress is intended to create a compression effect. Compression has been found as a helpful tool to neurodivergent individuals when it comes to sensory issues and sensory overload (Otsimo, 2021). This aspect is intended for the wearer to have a physical feeling of the garment to turn their attention to in situations like this. Another way I have done this is with the skirt of the dress. It is known that being present in nature can help relieve common experiences in people who are neurodivergent such as stress, anxiety, and emotional wellbeing (Weir, 2020). To enhance the physical feeling of being present in nature I added the longer sheer lightweight skirt with a more flowy design. This will both add a more physical effect to the feeling of wind blowing against the legs of the wearer, and allow sunlight to pass through creating a warmth through the sheer fabric. Lastly, the color choices of my fabrics are intended to reference the idea of masking which is common in the neurodivergent lifestyle. Masking is like an act of “camouflage” when an individual purposely changes their personality when around others and public spaces to prevent drawing in unwanted extra attention which can trigger unwanted emotions in that place and time (Radulski, 2022). By selecting my color palette based on autumn scenery I have created a garment that mimics its environment similar to the act of masking.
Originality and Innovation
This dress is designed to highlight commonly overlooked and unseen big factors in the lives of neurodivergent individuals. Not only does the garment bring light to important aspects, but it also works with the wearer who would identify with these traits to create a positive influence on their daily life while worn. This design was made to bring light to the fact that there is nothing wrong with neurodiversity, and that different people need different things in life for positive experiences. Wearing this garment as a neurodivergent feminine individual can be one of those things that brings a positive experience.
Sources
Radulski, E. M. (2022, March 21). Conceptualizing autistic masking, camouflaging, and neurotypical privilege: Towards a minority group model of neurodiversity. Karger Publishers. https://karger.com/hde/article/66/2/113/828423/Conceptualising-Autistic-Masking-Camouflaging-and
Hookway, J. (2023, April 5). Autism infinity symbol: Understanding its meaning and significance. Brainwave Watch. https://brainwave.watch/autism-infinity-symbol/
Weir, K. (2020). Nurtured by nature. Monitor on Psychology. https://www.apa.org/monitor/2020/04/nurtured-nature
Deep pressure therapy for autism. Otsimo. (2021, February 1). https://otsimo.com/en/deep-pressure-therapy-autism/