Sustainable Techniques By Eng Yi Hui
Sustainable Techniques (SUSTECH) focuses on designing with sustainability in mind, encouraging the use of upcycled materials and conscious construction methods.
For this project, we designed and created an original top in actual size using upcycled fabrics of different weights. We explored silhouette through a mix of sustainable techniques, experimented with unique placement of openings, and applied suitable seams and creative finishing methods. The project challenged us to combine innovative design with responsible making.
"May Peace Be Upon You" is an entertaining fashion line that reminds Muslims of the challenges endured by Prophet Muhammad (p.b.u.h.) and the importance of maintaining one's faith. This collection explores the colors and textures of the desert and transforms them into a wonderful top that serves as a reminder to have faith in the Almighty Allah (s.w.t). It is inspired by the voyage of the great prophet.
Some of the desert features that inspired the "May peace be upon you" top are the gentle ripples of sand dunes, the immense aridity of the desert ground, and the flexible yet fragile vegetation. These natural features' effect on fabric, color, and silhouette selections allows for an appealing balance of texture and shape in the design.
A-sym top:
The asymmetrical top, crafted from seven distinct patchwork pieces, symbolizes the seven rounds Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) made around the Kaaba. This sacred number corresponds with the route of commitment and belief. The patchwork design reflects the uneven surface of the desert, wonderfully emulating its rugged, stunning nature.
Sleeves
The top part section of the sleeves is crafted from the same intricate patchwork fabric as the top, ensuring cohesive elegance. The bottom part of the sleeves is constructed from fabric made of scrap thread, formed using water-soluble material, replicating the appearance of dry yet strong desert plants. These resilient plants metaphorically represent the endurance and strength of Prophet Muhammad (p.b.u.h).
Scarf
This exquisitely made item is meant to complement any ensemble it goes with. It is a powerful allegory for life's challenges that emphasizes the need of having confidence in Allah (s.w.t.) and the virtues of patience. It is made of thin cotton with deliberate burn holes. These intentional imperfections not only symbolize tenacity but also the profound beauty that results from adversity. Finished with a scarf that matches, this ensemble exudes sophistication and drama. It's an adaptable piece that looks great with anything or anything. You may wear it alone or combined. The inclusion of bottom tassels is a moving remembrance of the Prophet's endeavors to bring people together and lead unbelievers toward Islam. Similar to the threads he symbolically wove together, the tassels represent his ceaseless pursuit of fostering harmony and comprehension across disparate groups. Thus, inspired by the Prophet Muhammad's (p.b.u.h.) enduring heritage, this garment not only embodies exquisite craftsmanship but also contains a profound tale of endurance, unity, and spiritual commitment.
Color Palette
The top’s color palette is heavily taken from the desert hues of ochre, brown, and gold, emphasizing the harshness and unforgiving nature of the environment.
Fabric & Other Materials
Patchwork:
The patchworked fabric is a heartfelt blend of various techniques and cherished scraps, featuring quilting, tea and coffee tie-dyed elements, and straight lines symbolizing the unity, equality, and discipline of Muslims standing in straight rows (saff) during congregational Salah (prayer). This practice, emphasized by the Prophet Muhammad (p.b.u.h), is part of proper conduct in prayer. The patchwork embodies sustainability and resourcefulness, core values in Islam, by transforming remnants into something meaningful and embracing principles of avoiding wastefulness (Israf) and appreciating Allah's (s.w.t.) provisions. It stands as a testament to faith, resilience, and the beauty of creation through modesty and resourcefulness.
Water soluble fabric:
This innovative method transforms scrap thread and fabric into a new textile, mimicking the appearance of dry yet robust desert plants. These resilient plants metaphorically represent the endurance and strength of Prophet Muhammad (p.b.u.h), symbolizing his unwavering perseverance and fortitude in the face of life's trials.
Designer: Eng Yi Hui
Photographer: Matte Lim, Alfred Lye, Bobby Tonelli
Model: Charisse