The iconic kimono is rich in its history, symbolizing both longevity and good fortune while also known for its versatility. The traditional robe, with its delicate patterns and luxurious colors, has evolved over the years into a closet staple. Recently, while scrolling through our social feeds, we were taken aback by many of the unmissable Kimonos crafted by various members of the Browzwear community as they gear up for this season’s IACDE 3D Summit. This initiative brings together all members of the apparel industry and gives them the opportunity to dive into the world of digital through hands-on experience in a collaborative environment.
This time around, the summit, led by Anna Jackson, Keeper of the Asian Department at the Victoria & Albert Museum, and Dorelle McPherson, Tech Design Manager and 3D Fashion Designer, focused on bringing the traditional kimono into the future, by giving designers the challenge of creating their own digital interpretations of the historic kimono. From intricate embroidery to opulent and floral prints, each designer worked closely with VStitcher to bring their kimono concept to life in 3D.
“Kimonos can range from simple modern silhouettes to intricate detailed layered traditional garments, so the possibilities are endless. The use of fabrics and embroideries supplied by the sponsors was also a spectacular touch,” says Dorelle. “As a collaborator, it is challenging in a different way. Creating content for my peers on a professional level gives me the ability to engage and encourage artists from a technical perspective. The IACDE experience is a great push forward for 3D designers with a technical flair, and I look forward to more events like this and incorporating my own talent and expertise to help the 3D community grow.”
“My inspiration for the kimono came from the thumbnails of the swatches that were supplied with the pattern. I experimented by placing all of the images as all-over prints to find one that I like the most. I then added some cut lines to the hem and cuff. I really enjoy working with this function, it’s a quick way to experiment with seams and mix fabrics without actually having to separate the piece,” says Robert Bazeley-Harris, Senior Pattern Cutter at Allsaints. “It was then just a case of dropping in some graphics. I played around with scale and used the magic mirror to make sure they were evenly matched on both sides and used one of the pre-set substance effects to create the look of embroidery.”
“To experience the amazing possibilities of VStitcher during the assignment was a lot of fun! It was also exciting to be able to incorporate digital created knitwear textures of Stoll´s k.innovation CREATE DESIGN software in the different kimono variants. This led our design department to new digital inspirations for future physical products,” says Ellen Judith Müller, 3D Apparel Designer at STOLL.
“I was excited to take on the challenge of working with such a historic garment that has evolved over centuries and re-creating it in a virtual space. “I enjoyed applying new digital techniques learning new layering techniques to combine different materials and their different fabric properties in VStitcher,” says Astrid Hanenkamp, Womenswear Fashion Designer. “It’s always exciting to see the creativity that emerges out of the Browzwear community and how each designer interprets a garment in their own unique way.”
We are in awe of the beautiful kimono designs that we have seen so far and look forward to the IACDE Summit kicking off on April 8th, 2022. Great work to all the participants