Mother Vest

Imagining a more sustainable future for fashion through a matriarchal lens. Inspired by mothers, eclectic grandmas, and ecofeminism, this modular, reversible vest explores longevity as an alternative to fashion’s culture of disposability. Celebrating the women who do it all, the vest is designed to change with you - adapting to different needs, styles, and stages of life.

Co-designed with Tessa Krochak

Waxed canvas

Tartan polyester blend

Brass snaps

To view submitted process book, click here!

Inspiration: All hail the mother!

This project was led by the question: What if the fashion industry was matriarchal? We dove into fashion trends inspired by the women who came before us, from the “Italian grandma” aesthetic to the “eclectic grandpa.” We found countless examples of mismatched, thrown-together outfits that somehow work together—reflecting the resourcefulness, individuality, and “women do it all” attitude at the heart of our concept.

Concept Sketches

After discovering the term “eco-feminism,” our concept became clear: a modular vest that celebrates the complexities of womanhood while challenging the rapid cycle of fast fashion. One simple garment, designed with interchangeable features to adapt to all your needs.

Prototyping

Two prototypes helped us test and refine the concept before arriving at the final design. We experimented with fastening systems for interchangeable sleeves, skirts, and collars, and repeatedly drafted, tested, and adjusted the shapes and proportions of the pockets and main body..

1st and 2nd Functional Prototypes

Here are images of the 1st and second functional prototypes, where we tested fit and function of the interchangeable attachment peices.

Final Patterns

These are the final pattern pieces we drafted for the vest and interchangable attachment pieces.

Production

Next, it was time to get into production mode. After making so many prototypes, we had a great understanding of the order of construction for our vest, making this part of the process go smoothly.