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Monologue: Transformative Fashion Collection

Joyce C. Li's Monologue collection delves into humanity's need for protection from an increasingly oppressive external environment. The garments, constructed using traditional tailoring techniques, feature portable safe spaces inspired by engineering methods used in children’s pop-up books. The impact of Covid-19 has further emphasized the importance of isolation and distancing, making the collection's concept timely and relevant.

The transformative garments in the collection offer lightweight, expandable spaces that enable wearers to quickly self-isolate when privacy and protection are desired. From a dress that transforms into a sleeping bag to jackets with built-in face coverings and tops that expand into tents, the collection showcases innovative and functional designs in calming monochrome fabrics, with psychologically soothing imagery incorporated within the expanded spaces.

To provide stability and structure to the pop-up silhouettes, each garment is crafted with different under fabric structures, including neoprene, silk-wool blend, cotton twill, and wool fused with horsehair. The lining prints are meticulously painted with Gouache and repeated in Photoshop before being printed on silk crepe and poly charmeuse. The collection consists of 5 looks in size 6, and all designs are transformable into at least two looks, allowing wearers to adjust the garments to fit their emotional state and desired level of privacy.

Monologue was a project that commenced in June 2019 and culminated in August 2020. The collection was featured in the digital celebration "Here and Now" by Parsons School of Design in collaboration with Solange’s Saint Heron. The designs draw inspiration from children's pop-up books, aiming to transform the wearer into their own tranquil headspace, providing a temporary escape from the external environment.

Joyce C. Li's Monologue collection was awarded the Bronze A' Design Award in 2021, recognizing its outstanding and creatively ingenious designs that contribute to quality of life improvements. The collection's innovative approach to fashion, incorporating best practices in art, science, design, and technology, showcases strong technical and creative skills, making a significant impact in the fashion industry.

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