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Lu Yang

Lu Yang

Wuhan, China
UNIVERSITY/COLLEGE Royal College of Art
Title of Work Luluism
SPECIALISMS Womenswear

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flora.mclean@rca.ac.uk

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This creative practice focuses on contemporary wearable design that integrates traditional saddle structures with female armour aesthetics. Centred on modular leather armour works, the research explores the relationship between historical bodily discipline, female identity and modern bodily autonomy. Drawing from the structural geometry of historical ladies’ side saddles, traditional saddle construction logic is reinterpreted and transformed into modern wearable silhouettes. Vegetable- tanned leather, the classic material for saddle making, is adopted as the primary medium. Each piece is completed through hand stitching and partial hand dyeing, preserving the natural texture and stable structural performance of leather. The collection features partially detachable and reworkable constructions, allowing continuous remodelling and extending the lifespan of wearable pieces. This sustainable design resists the disposable nature of fast fashion and embeds circular fashion concepts into traditional leather craftsmanship. Through structured, wearable armour forms, the work visualises historical restrictions imposed on female bodies and reconstructs the visual expression of contemporary female strength. Balancing traditional handcraft and modern fashion language, the practice delivers material-led design reflections that redefine female bodily freedom and independent temperament.

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