Nikita
Bowe
" The Wizard"
BA Fashion (with Collection Design)
My inspiration was drawn from the timeless classic 1939 “Wizard of Oz “film and Judy Garlands troubled personal life behind the scenes despite the glamourize image of perfection. This collection reinterprets the wizard of oz through the lens of Judy garlands hidden struggles, contrasting fantasy with reality. structured, exaggerated silhouettes act both as an amour and restraint, reflecting the pressures of performance and control. The black and white color story removes the films technicolor optimism to expose a fractured dark identity underneath. The circular motifs reference the hypnotic allure of Oz and Garlands experiences of fame on a cycle of control, exhaustion, while the sharp contrasts divide public image from her private self. “The Wizard “revels the cost of the illusion of a perfect world and honouring the magic of oz while acknowledging and revealing the darkness of the reality behind it. I used innovative pattern cutting to create the structured silhouettes giving a theatrical feel, with layering of panels and structured aspects throughout the three looks. stiffening parts of the fabrics supported the precise shapes creating a “shell” that separates the wearer from the world. The fabric selection is black and white duchess satin and dry cotton.
" Remake"
This project reconstructs a couture look from Ashi Studio, a Paris-based label by Mohammed Ashi known for sculptural silhouettes and architectural design.
The garment is taken from the Spring/Summer 2024 Haute Couture collection, presented at Paris Couture Week, where the brand explored minimalism, balance, and controlled volume through a refined palette and precise forms. “REMAKE” focuses on faithfully reproducing the original design, maintaining its structure, proportions, and craftsmanship. The project highlights the technical discipline of couture and the importance of understanding construction through replication. I chose this piece as i love the silhouette and drape of the look, The soft draping but structured dramatic collar, this is evident in the designers work throughout as the brand is recognized for merging romanticism with structure, bringing together softness and form. “ Remake” emphasizes Ashi Studio’s role in contemporary couture and technical skills needed to replicate these designs through pattern drafting and construction.
Alternative Collection " Street to Oz"
“Street to Oz” is a high-end streetwear collection that merges the whimsical nostalgia of The Wizard of Oz with a “Monolithic” and “Emerald Industrial” aesthetic. By drawing from past collages and mechanical clockwork imagery, the project transforms classic cinematic motifs into avant-garde, structural silhouettes. This collection utilizes a palette of deep forest greens and striking magenta, inspired by the iconic poppy fields and the destination of the Emerald City. High concept streetwear, including hooded capes, technical joggers, and structured skirts that emphasize exaggerated, geometric proportions. Inspiration drawn from clockwork hearts and “Monolithic” forms to bridge the gap between fantasy and modern urban utility.