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- Caoimhe Henry
Caoimhe
Henry
Graduate Collection - Sincerely Yours
My graduate collection is a heartfelt exploration of my time living in Antwerp Belgium where I carried out my internship. I was inspired by the rich history, architecture, and culture of the city.
My research led me in particular to the German invasion of Belgium and the famous Antwerp train station, which looks just as it did during the Second World War.
This collection captures couples during World War Two, shown in 1940’s photography documenting the emotional farewells of couples. The dreaded goodbye as soldiers left the station to head off to the battlefront.
Based on my own drawings, my collections shape and silhouette were inspired by the 1940s photography which I collaged and reworked through further drawings and stand work.
The smokey atmosphere of the train station inspired the base colour palette using misty charcoal greys and cool foggy blues which was punctuated by bursts of blood reds to symbolise the warmth of the passionate embrace. As the couple embrace a final kiss, a suitcase tumbles open, emptying and scattering their intimate keepsakes such as postcards, letters, gloves which inspired the details throughout the collection.
My collection is to acknowledge and honour the hardship of the people from the 1940s tried to endure in long goodbyes to their loved ones due to war and who hoped for a future where uniforms would not keep them apart.
Remake Dior John Galliano 1997
For this project, our aim was to replicate the work of a high profile designer, focusing on accurately mimicking their pattern cutting and sewing techniques. I chose a 1997 Dior piece by John Galliano, as I’ve always admired Dior’s dedication to intricate pattern work and luxurious fabric choices.
Galliano’s design in this piece captured a sense of elegance and drama that I wanted to reflect in my own interpretation. I selected a boiled wool for its structure and weight, which complemented the form and detail of the garment. Through careful analysis and construction, I worked to stay true to the original silhouette while applying techniques that challenged and developed my technical skills.
Triquetra
Triquetra was inspired by my grandmother, whose deep love for music and musical instruments has been a constant presence throughout my life. One of her favourite tunes, The Garden of Daisies, sparked my exploration into the forms and textures of instruments, particularly those used in traditional Irish music.
As I researched Irish musical heritage, including jigs, reels, and Celtic symbols, I began collaging imagery of musical instruments with Celtic motifs to develop the silhouettes for this collection. The final design draws directly from my grandmother’s accordion. I used leather to replicate the pleated structure of the instrument, and incorporated a black and white colour that was inspired by her handwritten music notebook. This project is both a tribute to her and a celebration of Irish musical tradition.