This is the final collection of images created to illustrate my Woollen Mermaids design entry. The research i did prior to commencing the design process, albeit extensive, circled around a simple quote i found from Annette Kellerman.
"I cant swim wearing more stuff than you would hang on a clothesline" - The swimmer from Down Under.
With this quote in mind i sought to design a bathing suit that would speak of early 20th century woman's apparel without mimicking any specific styles or pieces from that time. Predominantly when one thinks of items that would have hung on the clothes line back in that era one would only get as far as underclothes. Outer garments being far more cumbersome and weighty to hang on the line such as corsets and heavy draped skirts/dresses. This thought process led me to utilise feminine frills in my design diagonally down the front panel and skimming the back panel - attached to the top. In addition to this I used a stretch lace that i felt was succinct with lacy lingerie and modest undergarments that would have been worn by woman in that time. I feel that my design has encapsulated Annette Kellerman's quote and is a tribute to the practical yet daringly feminine fashion psyche that was so inherently instilled in her.
