For my main project, I’ve shifted gears from creating sustainable socks to designing a modular skirt that doubles as a tarp for the rain. This project is all about merging functionality with style, creating something that’s both practical for outdoor use and trendy enough to wear in everyday life. The aesthetic I’m going for is a mix of outdoorsy, nature-inspired elements with a hint of streetwear and fashion. I want it to be something that not only works well in nature but also looks great, something cute and modular that you’d want to wear on a hike or even in the city.

The main concept centers around nature-inspired colors, like earthy greens, browns, and neutral tones, but with a twist of urban style—think sleek lines, modern cuts, and maybe even some reflective elements for practicality. It’s a look that blends the ruggedness of outdoor gear with the casual edge of street fashion, making it perfect for someone who enjoys both outdoor adventures and urban life.

Alternatives

However, what if I went in a completely different direction? Let’s consider a few alternative aesthetics:

  1. Industrial Urban Aesthetic: If I were to design with a more industrial, city-inspired aesthetic, I’d focus less on functionality and more on aesthetic appeal. I imagine using sleek, minimal fabrics—something more metallic, perhaps in shades of gray, black, and silver. The piece might have sharp lines, exaggerated structure, and minimal features—more of an art piece than a practical garment. The design would look good in an urban setting, like walking through downtown or at a trendy café, but wouldn’t be as versatile or functional for outdoor use. This aesthetic would definitely lean more into fashion-forward territory rather than utility.

  1. High-Fashion Futurism: Another alternative would be to go futuristic and high-fashion, using bold, experimental shapes and textures. The skirt could be ultra-modern, with sculptural elements, exaggerated volume, or asymmetric cuts. The fabric might be glossy, with high-tech materials like reflective surfaces or even LED details for a truly out-there look. It’d be striking, unique, and attention-grabbing, but not necessarily something you’d want to wear for outdoor activities, especially if weatherproofing wasn’t a focus.

sources:

  1. https://www.instagram.com/insigniamsa/p/Ctrk1hMum74/?img_index=1
  2. https://fashionista.com/2021/01/retro-futurism-definition-fashion-designers
  3. featured image: https://warsawsneakerstore.com/en/blog/what-is-gorpcore-the-outdoor-style-that-s-taking-over-the-world.html

2 Comments. Leave new

  • Claire Markus
    May 7, 2025 2:52 am

    Ellyse, your idea fascinates me. I have so so many questions regarding logistics. Before I get into that, let me just say, very creative idea. How would you ensure that the item is easy to clean to transition between outdoor use and skin-to-skin contact. In addition how will you select a material that is durable enough to weather a storm outside while being gentle enough to contact human skin and rub against it?

  • Rystan Qualls
    May 6, 2025 5:22 pm

    Hey Ellyse, your pivot from sustainable socks to a modular skirt/tarp is an exciting one! The concept of merging robust outdoor functionality with everyday streetwear aesthetics strikes a compelling balance. Your chosen direction, blending nature-inspired colors and textures with sleek, urban lines and practical elements like reflective details, sounds incredibly versatile and appealing. This “hike-to-city” adaptability is a fantastic niche.

    While the Industrial Urban and High-Fashion Futurism alternatives offer intriguing stylistic explorations, your primary concept’s fusion of practicality and trendiness feels particularly innovative and well-suited for an audience that values both adventure and style. It’s a clever solution for versatile, modern wear.

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