Holly Scott

This project began with my interest in the film characterisation of the femme fatale. This character typically has a silent, seething, anger towards men that eventually develops into rage, ultimately ending with the death of an established man. As she uses her femininity as a weapon, femininity is then villainized.

Throughout my life I have continually witnessed misogyny, such as the murder of Sarah Everard, Roe v. Wade being overturned, and friends of mine being assaulted or spiked by men. Every day women are silently dealing with misogyny. When investigating the characterisation of the femme fatale, I found myself empathising with the villain and wanted to explore this feeling of the silent, growing anger that we as women feel.

I drew from the subject matter of flowers as they classically symbolise femininity. I picked specific flowers that symbolise anger, aggression, and revenge; all moods that are reflected in the concept.

I wanted to explore the patriarchal view of femininity as something fragile. I experimented with delicate materials, and detailed pockets. I explored growing seething rage through the use of dip dying techniques, adding weight and opacity gradually throughout the entire collection. I also introduced sharper elements to the design as the work became more emotive. Telling a story of an intensifying sorrowful anger.

This project was inspired by couture fashion which is reflected in the detailed designs and the abstract form of the final garment.