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Brief- To design an outfit for a celebrity of our choice. I chose to base my theme on Down Syndrome and research into the scientific side of the condition and create garment shapes through the inspiration I found from my research.

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I created this outfit for the met gala inspired by Down syndrome and looking closely at the extra chromosome, Trisomy 21. It has definitely been my favourite project by far and creating something based on a personal topic was something special to work with. Being able to use my brother who has Down Syndrome was so rewarding throughout my initial and development work. Talking about the condition to other people isn’t something I have always been open about before this project so being able to create and share the topic in a visual form has been so comforting.

People don’t always know what to say when it’s brought up, not everyone understands, and some just prefer to avoid the awkwardness of having to hold a conversation with me about it because some don’t class it as ‘normal’. I am raising awareness for Down syndrome as it is often looked down upon so I wanted to show that there are no limitations and that they are just as special as anyone else.

Creating a piece in a visual way and analysing aspects such as Trisomy 21 through the vinyl, distinctive features through print, DNA through the sheering on the sleeve and belt and Makaton through the hand embroidery on the collar.