Zhujing Dai
Blending the traditional clothing of the Chinese Qing dynasty with Balenciaga’s modern tailoring, this dress and headpiece reinterpret classic silhouettes while enhancing the body’s natural form through subtle tailoring techniques. Crafted entirely from corn husks, it breathes new life into this often-overlooked material, resulting in a sustainable outfit that celebrates texture, shadow, and movement.
Drawing particular inspiration from Balenciaga’s semi-fitted suit and the iconic 1951 jacket, the design features a tailored front that flows into a loose back, creating a curved, figure-hugging form that allows for movement. The base is crafted from natural fabric, skillfully draped and cut to form voluminous layers beneath an outer shell of corn fabric. The matching headpiece echoes Chinese design elements, appearing to balance delicately on the head while gracefully encircling the face, casting shadows and concealing angles.
