Asymmetric Cape
Winter 2025 Dressed BodiesThis project was created for the final of the Dressed Bodies apparel class. Much of my work is inspired by Star Wars, and so I sought to create an asymmetric cloak utilizing notable elements of the film series’ design language. I imagined this piece as a decorative piece of formal wear that a high ranking imperial officer may wear at a gala or event.
Initial Design Sketches
A recurring design choice in Star Wars costumes is asymmetry which is apparent in Luke’s shirt and most imperial uniforms in the original trilogy. Furthermore, Star Wars costumes integrate futuristic looking closures and hardwares. These two elements informed the early sketches and the choice of a GLSJA Utility Clasp as the closure hardware.
Pattern Drafting
The initial pattern draft began with a modified poncho design, but that was abandoned due to the prominent side seam and inability to produce an exposed back lining drape. I opted for modifying an A-line cape draft using my initial bodice drape pattern. By arranging the original back and front half bodice drapes 90 degrees to each other and at 1.5 inches (3.81 cm) between shoulders, I was able to generate a rough A-line cape. Joining the far side shoulder lines with a contiguous asymmetric line created the silhouette for the cape.
The asymmetry also necessitated drafting a matching asymmetric Mandarin collar. By adjusting the lengths and pieces of a standard mandarin collar, I generated a Mandarin collar that would account for the asymmetry and overlap of the cape.
Preliminary Draping
The preliminary drape of the modified A-line cape resulted in a silhouette exactly like what I had originally envisioned within the sketching phase. Slight modifications off the initial drape included widening the overrall neckline for a looser and more comfortable feel.