Christina da Graça

Beginnings

This dress was created for a close friend’s weddingin the spring. The design was inspired by themes ofnew beginnings, rebirth, and openness to change.The bottom portion of the dress features anopenwork lace style with a flower pattern I modifiedto fit the design. The open stitches symbolize thewelcoming of the changes that occur between twoindividuals as they embark on the journey ofmarriage, mirroring the seasonal transformationfrom winter to spring. The flower stitches representthe blooming flowers of spring, symbolizing thebudding romance of the couple. This same stitchpattern is incorporated into the upper portion of thebodice, further emphasizing the theme of growthand renewal.This project demonstrates my ability as a designerto conceptualize and find meaning in both personaland relational experiences and transformations inmy life and those around me. It highlights myapproach to using materials to communicate deepthemes and bring ideas to life, while alsoshowcasing my crochet skills. Additionally, itdemonstrates how I draw direct inspiration fromthe natural world and use it to create narratives thatreflect personal experiences and emotions.