Fashion Professor and acclaimed designer Danielle Martin showcased her sustainable and experimental garments in Milan Design Week
Fashion lovers were treated to a visual feast at this year's Milan Design Week, as acclaimed designer Danielle Martin showcased her latest sustainable and experimental garments. Martin, who is also an Assistant Professor at the School of Fashion at The Creative School, Toronto Metropolitan University, exhibited her designs from April 18th to 23rd at the Circolare | MDW23 exhibition in Milan, Italy.
Milan Design Week is one of the most prestigious design events in the world, where designers, architects, and artists come together to showcase their work and exchange ideas. Known for its high standards of quality and innovation, being selected to exhibit at the event is a recognition of Martin’s talent and expertise.
Fashion Professor and acclaimed designer Danielle Martin
The exhibition, hosted by Isoladesign, focused on materials and design projects that have a minimal environmental impact in terms of production. Martin's designs reflect this ethos, with her handDress in becoming and circular3dDress both incorporating eco-responsible elements.
The handDress in becoming is a zero-waste cut dress that features a unique shape inspired by a hand gesture. Made from silk, the dress incorporates bobbin lace and hand-sewn beadings, replacing traditional seams. The 18 rectangular pieces of fabric are used judiciously, without creating any fabric scraps, making it an eco-friendly choice.
Danielle Martin’s handDress in becoming
Photo: Vincent Nadon
Meanwhile, the circular3dDress explores the tensions between experimental garments and responsible behavior in the context of the fashion industry. Martin uses the draping technique, dating back to antiquity, to create a slow-evolving dress that emphasizes the enduring importance of knowledge of handwork. The 3D printed intricate structures in the dress add to its eco-responsibility, as the selected material is recyclable.
Danielle Martin’s circular3dDress
Photo: Paul Litherland
Martin's designs are a testament to her creativity and sustainability-focused approach to fashion. Her innovative designs challenge the traditional boundaries of fashion, paving the way for a more sustainable and conscious future.
The Creative School at Toronto Metropolitan University
The Creative School is a dynamic faculty that is making a difference in new, unexplored ways. Made up of Canada’s top professional schools and transdisciplinary hubs in media, communication, design and cultural industries, The Creative School offers students an unparalleled global experience in the heart of downtown Toronto.