For my major work, I was interested in creating an original design that reflected my passion for ‘Star Wars’. My three-piece design features a gown, bolero sleeve piece and headpiece. It draws on abstract and physical inspirations from the ‘Star Wars’ prequel films. I wanted to design a costume for the character of Padmé. To achieve this, the costume had to embody an overall ‘Star Wars’ science-fiction aesthetic as well as integrate elements specific to Padmé, referencing her existing costumes and reflecting her feelings. The gown is made from gathered silk lurex organza. The light colour takes inspiration from Padmé's youthful persona in ‘Star Wars: Episode II’ as she dons pastel and dream-like dresses when retreating to Naboo. Black velvet ribboning features in horizontal lines across the gown, emphasizing her waist and confidence. The tight silhouette and strapless neckline reimagines Padmé's revealing costumes which emphasize her defiant nature as she covertly marries Anakin Skywalker. A pleated and gathered splaying base creates outward lines which represent Padmé's open-minded demeanour. Functional features include the invisible zipper and satin lining which ensure comfort and opacity. The exterior of the bolero is dark navy wet-look jacquard which reflects Padmé's maturity in ‘Star Wars: Episode III’. The boat neck shape emphasises her precedence as a Queen: it creates balance and proportion, representing her composed mindset. The elongated sleeves feature a machine embroidered design in the exaggerated openings. Black velvet piping reinforced with wire tubing keeps this visible. Rouleau loops and Italian enamelled buttons feature on the back, a functional closure that ensures ease of wear. The crocheted chain headpiece reflects Padmé's influential position in the ‘Star Wars’ universe. The gold colour resonates with the earthy tones of the crinkle cut taffeta lining in the bolero, and reinforces her royal status. My headpiece is an interpretation of senatorial headpieces worn by Padmé and adds a distinctive science-fiction quality to the ensemble in its contrasting texture and material. Having completed this project, I have learnt the value of patience and planning. Starting the construction process early in the year was vital to completing the project, especially as unanticipated problems needed time to be resolved. The greatest challenge was constructing the gathering of the gown. This process took many hours and was a much more intensive task than expected. Though, ultimately this laborious process created an elegant end result. On reflection, resolving issues became one of the most enjoyable parts of the whole experience, as I learnt and mastered new skills. Seeing the three pieces come together as a cohesive whole has been extremely gratifying.
