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Julia Kamada Messiano

Faculdade Belas Artes

My name is Julia Kamada Messinao, and I am a fashion student at Belas Artes University in São Paulo, Brazil. I am currently in my third semester, at the beginning of my second year of college, where I have been developing both my technical skills and my creative identity as a designer. I have always been deeply fascinated by history and the ways people lived in the past. Understanding how cultures evolve over time and how traditions are expressed through clothing has always inspired me. During my sophomore year of high school, I had the opportunity to study different cultures and traditions more closely, and that experience made me realize how much I enjoy exploring realities that are different from my own. It opened my perspective and strengthened my interest in cultural diversity as a source of creative inspiration. Since then, I have been actively seeking to expand my knowledge of both international cultures and my own Brazilian heritage. I aim to incorporate these references into my work in a meaningful and respectful way, translating historical and cultural elements into contemporary fashion design. I believe that fashion can be a powerful tool to tell stories and connect different worlds. In addition, I am very interested in experimenting with new techniques and materials as part of my creative process. I am constantly looking for ways to challenge myself and step outside of my comfort zone. This is precisely why the Real Leather Stay Different project caught my attention, as I had never worked with leather before. I see this as an exciting opportunity to explore a new material and further develop my skills as an innovative and thoughtful designer.

The warion

Category: Apparel

Competitions: Brazil

My design is the result of a combination of inspirations, with the main focus on ancient Japan. I was particularly inspired by the architecture of Buddhist temples, the clothing of samurai, the intricate designs of kimonos, and the elaborate crowns and garments worn by emperors and their courts. These elements guided both the aesthetic and conceptual development of my work. The influence of the samurai, who emerged during the Heian Period, played a significant role in shaping my design. Originally servants and protectors of the aristocracy, samurai became powerful figures in Japanese society. Over time, especially through periods like the Muromachi Period and the Sengoku Period, they developed strong visual identities through their armor, garments, and symbols of status. I was particularly drawn to the balance between functionality and symbolism found in samurai culture. Elements such as layered armor, structured silhouettes, and detailed ornamentation influenced the shapes and textures in my design. Similarly, traditional kimonos inspired the use of patterns, fabric layering, and the idea of garments as storytelling pieces. The architecture of Buddhist temples also contributed to my creative process, especially through their symmetry, repetition, and strong structural lines. These characteristics helped me think about form and construction in a more architectural way. Additionally, the refined and ceremonial appearance of imperial clothing and crowns inspired the more decorative and expressive aspects of the design, adding a sense of hierarchy and elegance. Overall, my project translates historical and cultural references into a contemporary fashion piece that reflects identity, structure, and tradition.

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