Meri Malminen
This design is a sculptural two-piece look composed of a jacket and skirt that merge historical inspiration with a contemporary silhouette. Drawing from Balenciaga’s iconic hourglass and cocoon shapes, the jacket features a structured front that fits to the form, contrasted with a voluminous back that drapes away from the body. It invites viewers to consider the craftsmanship behind the garment and the dialogue between designer and muse.
To achieve this dual effect, the student repurposed vintage jackets—deconstructing them to study their inner workings and reconstructing them in a way that allowed the lining to present the hourglass shape, while the outer layer slips off the shoulders to form a cocoon back. The same principle guided the construction of the skirt. By separating the lining and outer fabric, the student created an interplay between structure and fluidity, giving the piece a soft yet architectural style. The choice of a classic navy fabric maintains a timeless aesthetic to the contemporary design.
