When I place the fabrics on the body of the mannequin I always feel like a sculptor who gives shape to her works. That’s why I like to think that I sculpt my designs to create the perfect garment. I listen to the fabric and let myself go by creating volumes, structures and balances. Finally I add the ornaments and trimmings, always looking for harmony.
This creative technique is known as “moulage” and comes from the word “moule”, mold in French. The designer Madelaine Vionnet popularized this system and, since then, many other great designers have used it to bring their creations to life. Fashion firms that work with custom use this technique and adapt the mannequin to the silhouette of the person they are designing for. This makes the work easier and a perfect result is guaranteed.
Although I don’t usually make custom designs, I love moulage because it allows me to see how the finished garment will look. In my opinion, imagining and sketching the designs is useless if you can’t build them later and see them on the mannequin. This helps me understand if my vision is possible, if the fabric is right and most importantly, if I fall in love with the look or if I should change my mind.
That is why for me, my garments are like sculptures, because I mold my fabrics as a sculptor molds clay or carves stone until I achieve the ideal silhouette always aiming to achieve beauty.
