Abstract

Fashion design exists in a world increasingly influenced by the world of artistic and intellectual ideas. Fashion no longer follows the zeitgeist as a reflection of styles or trends rather designers are defining new roles of self representation, identity and social context unique due to its relationship to the corporeal. The relatively new, increased focus on marketing and branding has encouraged the development of intellectualism within the design field offering new insights into social context. These new insights help to predict the future sense of clothing and its function beyond the utilitarian or usable. This paper examines the critical process and creative outcomes of my artwork which are inspired by the rapid rise of the confessional impulse in popular culture expedited by technology. The contemporary trend of sharing fears, anxiety, guilt or desires has found a rich outlet on internet blogs and social networking sites. The seemingly egalitarian and anonymous nature of attention on the internet has encouraged the confession of deeply personal hidden feelings and perspectives while seeking reinforcement and a sense of belonging. By examining these ideas within popular culture in conjunction to fashion design, my work reflects observations of the changing nature of clothing and its influence on identity and the sense of self.