My project, a modernised traditional Native American tribal outfit inspired by Pocahontas, aims to effortlessly blend traditional and contemporary fashion. Motivated by a desire to showcase and appreciate Native American tribal culture and textile techniques, the outfit incorporates elements from the 1995 Disney movie 'Pocahontas' and draws inspiration from the collections of Native American fashion designer Bethany Yellowtail. The design process incorporated intricate Native American techniques like screen printing, embroidery, beading, weaving, and patchwork, seamlessly integrating decorative motifs reflecting both the movie and tribal culture. The focus was on creating apparel that honours Pocahontas' strength, curiosity, courage, and adventurous spirit while exhibiting contemporary innovation and style. Creating this unique piece involved handcrafting all embellishments individually, including a customised handmade screen for screen printing, unique embroidery designs, and beading. These features added a personal touch, emphasising dedication and craftsmanship, effectively translating my apparel piece from concept to completion. The outfit caters to a large target market, offering versatility for use as both a set for special occasions and smart casual attire. The long, flowing skirt represents traditional, timeless aspects, while the midriff-length shirt features a v-shaped neckline and kimono-style sleeves, portraying contemporary fashion influences. High-quality natural cotton fabrics, invisible zippers, and sustainable construction enhance the form, functionality and longevity of the apparel. Throughout the project, I delved into the intricacies of tribal culture, learning about the significance of colours, symbols, beading, embroidery, weaving, and materials as forms of communication within the community. This exploration contributed to a deeper understanding of the cultural context, allowing me to incorporate these elements thoughtfully into the design. The most challenging aspect of the project arose when I realised the initial shirt design did not effectively represent the essential points of inspiration and my skills. With only two weeks until the submission deadline, I made a bold decision to redesign and recreate the shirt. This decision addressed seam alignment issues, enhanced the silhouette of the apparel and with the introduction of kimono-style sleeves, created a visual point of interest. The Pocahontas-inspired modern tribal apparel successfully combines cultural significance, functionality, and aesthetic appeal. The project represents not only a creative endeavour but also a journey of cultural exploration and skill development, showcasing a thoughtful approach to design challenges.
