Fashion Design
Yvette Daly
Veiled Resistance
My collection reflects my own personal journey and the evolution of my identity. Growing up in Ireland, Catholicism was an integral part of my upbringing, deeply ingrained through devout family members within the clergy and the Catholic School I attended as a child and young adult. I embraced the teachings of the Catholic Church as a child, aspiring to fulfil the traditional roles prescribed for women- that of a wife and mother, embodying the ideals of a “good Catholic” woman. However, as I grew older, I began to question the rigid structures and gender disparities inherent within the Catholic teachings. The difference between the expectations placed upon men and women became increasingly apparent, prompting me to challenge these beliefs. With time, I outgrew the confines of my religious upbringing, embarking on a journey of selfdiscovery where my identity transcended the boundaries of religion. In my final year project, I visually narrate a transformative process of growth and rebellion. Drawing inspiration from the iconic imagery of the nun’s habit, symbolizing both devotion to God and modesty, I explore the deconstruction of its silhouette as a metaphor for breaking free from societal constraints. This deconstruction serves as a visual representation of a journey towards liberation and self-empowerment. My collection also draws influence from feminist performance artists such as Yoko Ono, particularly her seminal work “Cut Piece”, which can be seen as a commentary on gender roles and societal expectations, challenging traditional notions of femininity and submission. In the performance She invites the audience to approach her one by one and cut away a piece of her clothing. The act of cutting away the clothes symbolizes the relinquishing of control and the surrendering of the artist’s physical and emotional boundaries to the audience. The act of cutting away clothing is reflected in my collection, with the progressive deconstruction and asymmetry of the garments which echo the themes of liberation and self-discovery. Ultimately, my collection celebrates the beauty of individuality and the strength found in embracing one’s true self. It is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the transformative power of self-discovery.