WHISPER
Category: Apparel
Competitions: International
This project is inspired by the Vietnamese folk observation: “Dragonflies flying high indicate sunny weather, flying at mid-level suggest overcast skies, and flying low signal approaching rain.” Rather than translating this saying literally, the collection explores the relationship between atmospheric change, traditional ecological knowledge, and human perception of natural rhythms. Variations in dragonfly movement are transformed into contemporary fashion language through silhouette, volume, and spatial composition. Material development is informed by the construction principles of traditional bamboo dragonflies, particularly their balance, lightweight structure, and dynamic movement. Reclaimed leather is reintroduced through sculptural forming techniques to create lifted and flowing forms, while discarded leather fragments are reconstructed using layering and embellishment methods to generate dimensional surfaces and extend the material lifecycle. To reinforce the atmospheric narrative, surface coating techniques are applied to create shifting visual effects across the leather, evoking reflections, humidity, and changing weather conditions. By combining traditional observation, experimental material practice, and sustainable design approaches, the project reinterprets familiar cultural references within a contemporary fashion context.
