The Form of Power
Costume Design for Xinyi Chen
In the rapidly evolving society, femininity is transforming into a more diverse concept. This garment goes beyond a deeper exploration of beauty, boldly challenging traditional gender norms. On a larger scale, it embodies an inclusive, diverse value system for female identity, promoting a broader societal understanding of complex female identities and encouraging women to define beauty on their own terms. Additionally, it uses recycled leather and environmentally friendly velvet, with plans to develop biodegradable tulle, balancing design expression with environmental responsibility.
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The Form of Power by Xinyi Chen
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Costume Design by Xinyi Chen
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Xinyi Chen The Form of Power
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Xinyi Chen Costume Design
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Unique Properties
This apparel design highlights the complexity and multidimensional charm of modern women, breaking away from the traditional, monotonous stereotypes of females. Set against the backdrop of feminist trend, the design features multiple unique innovations, including materials and tailoring, to fully express the diversity of feminine qualities. It also redefines the essence of female power, with a focus on the awareness, control, and freedom of expression over their own identities.
Tags
apparel design, feminist trend, modern minimalism, broad shoulder silhouette, asymmetric cut, fabric compatibility, conflict and harmony, sustainable development
Production Technology
Leather, suiting fabric, velvet, and tulle, these four distinct materials contrast yet coexist in the design, symbolizing the multifaceted nature of femininity. In terms of tailoring, the broad shoulder silhouette creates a striking contrast with the cinched waistline, showcasing both female strength and graceful curves. Additionally, the high slit combined with tulle fabric strikes a perfect balance between confidence and mystery.
Design Challenge
The stiffness difference between tulle and other fabrics complicates seamless integration. To address this, the design opts for elastic lining as a transition, maintaining overall lightness while ensuring a natural combination of materials. A broad shoulder silhouette can emphasize strength but may reduce elegance. To balance this, it uses lightweight suiting fabric to mitigate visual bulk at the shoulders, paired with a cinched waistline to harmonize bold power with soft grace.
Project Duration
This project started in Los Angeles in October 2022 and was completed there by the end of December 2022.
Operation Flow
The design prioritizes the symbolic meaning of clothing and its role as a medium of self expression, aiming to highlight the unique charm and social standing of women. The asymmetric cuts break from traditional symmetrical patterns, boldly expressing defiance of societal norms. The tulle fabric at key body contours adds layers to the garment and creates dynamic visual flow. Drawing on the 1980s power suits, the broad shoulder silhouette reflects the authority and leadership of modern women.
Research
This piece is for independent, confident, and multifaceted modern women, especially workplace elites and avant garde culture fans. To challenge traditional gender stereotypes that limit female representation, it uses modern design to portray unique femininity. Through this, it promotes public understanding of complex female identities, emphasizing that women are equally powerful. It also encourages women to define their own beauty and value, boldly expressing their authentic, diverse selves.
Inspiration
The design takes cues from the diversity of modern femininity. It blends the essence of modern minimalism and structuralism, highlighting the unique beauty found in the contrast and harmony between sharp lines and soft materials. Classic black, as the main color, conveys an upscale sense where strength meets grace. Further inspired by architecture and artists, it uses multidimensional mirroring to reflect that women can flexibly adapt to complex societies while maintaining their inner depth.
Image Credits
Xinyi Chen
Project Overview
The Form of Power Costume Design has been a Iron winner in the Fashion, Apparel and Garment Design award category in the year 2024 organized by the prestigious A' Design Award & Competition. The Iron A' Design Award is awarded to good designs that meet the rigorous professional and industrial standards set by the A' Design Awards. This recognition is reserved for works that demonstrate a solid understanding of design principles and show creativity within their execution. Recipients of the Iron A' Design Award are acknowledged for their practical innovations and contributions to their respective fields, providing solutions that improve quality of life and foster positive change. These designs are a testament to the skill and dedication of their creators, showcasing their ability to address real-world challenges through thoughtful design.
Iron Recognition
Xinyi Chen was recognized with the coveted Iron A' Design Award in 2025, a testament to excellence of their work The Form of Power Costume Design.
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