THE LIVING HIDE
Category: Apparel
Competitions: International
The Living Hide Inspired by the centuries-old tradition called Wayang Kulit means Leather Puppet in Indonesia, the collection celebrates leather not merely as a material, but as a cultural medium. Leather Puppet has been more than a performance. It is a living philosophy that teaches humanity about wisdom, balance, humility, and the eternal dialogue between good and evil. The collection transforms theatrical elements into contemporary womenswear. The silhouettes echo the elongated proportions of leather puppets. The skirt is draped like the curtain of a Leather Puppet stage, gathering like fabric that’s been pulled aside just before the performance begins. Elements from traditional architecture, carved wooden door handles, and the detailed costumes of royal puppet characters are translated into shapes, textures, and small structural details throughout the garments. The hand-stitching represents the artisans who bind leather puppets by hand. Sustainability becomes the foundation of the collection, not only as an environmental responsibility but as an act of cultural sustainability. The collection uses locally sourced calf leather from traditional leather craftsmen in the designer’s hometown, where leatherworking has been passed down for generations. Each panel is carefully positioned to preserve as much of the original leather shape as possible. Materials are not discarded but carried forward, reused, or transformed, so they can continue their life in new forms. The remaining leather piece is transformed into patchwork construction for the inner part. The collection also constructed from handmade Batik fabric named Sidomukti, it is a traditional fabric from Indonesia. Rather than producing new textiles, the designer carefully selected excess production and deadstock fabrics and give the materials a new life. While preserving a centuries-old craft, the batik is made through environmentally responsible processes that respect nature and reduce waste. The Sidomukti motif carries a profound Javanese philosophy ‘sido’ means continuity, while ‘mukti’ means prosperity, reminding us that true sustainability is achieved when we protect both our environment and our culture. The Living Hide is more than a fashion collection, it is a commitment to preserving what truly matters. Sustainability is not only about reducing impact, it’s also about making sure that what we inherit doesn’t end with us.
