An exploratory visualisation of the complexities of femininity; the juxtapositions of clashing structures, colour, and materiality to consider the meaning of twenty first century feminity through a quilted lens. Dissonance considers the imagery and power conjured by the colour red, the comfort and warmth offered by quilted blankets, and the confidence and regality inspired by historical silhouettes. The garment prompts us to ponder the diversity of the feminine experience, reminding us that it is so much more than how it is perceived.

This piece was inspired by the quilt my mother made me several years ago for my twenty-first birthday, and the endless talents she has. I wanted to embody the amazing, complex woman she is and began to explore the deeper meanings behind her favourite colour - red. I combined this powerful, bold, lively hue with figure-enhancing silhouettes, strongly defined shapes, and the softness and gentleness of quilts to capture the patchwork of female experiences. The name of the piece demonstrates a number of colliding concepts that may seem like an unlikely combination at face value but somehow work together to create something powerful - representing what it means to be feminine.

For this project, I taught myself how to quilt. The skirt portion of the garment is comprised of 9 individual quilted panels that have been created from a total of 33 disappearing-nine-squares; a common quilting technique. The bodice is an adapted fully-boned corset with elongated straps to follow the shape of the skirt.

This piece took a total of eight months to construct.