Annie McCourt

Consciente

Consciente is a sustainably-created collection derived from a conscious process of discovering a system of cutting and patterning that uses only straight lines, 90 and 60-degree angles in order to control pattern layout and eliminate pattern-cut waste.

Throughout the journey to the California College of the Arts Senior Fashion Show, I have been examining complete presence through every moment, rather than focusing on the destination. The process is live and improvised, yet perfectly orchestrated by what is happening in front of me. The process is a journey that is beautiful and profound. Enjoyable. Uninformed yet informed. In-the-moment. Throughout the journey to the ‘destination’ the unfinished product becomes loved. It becomes valued. Cherished.

Consciente has provided proof that sustainable design can be birthed from both a conscience, and a conscious. It is a completely sustainable collection through construction, patterning techniques, as well as dedication to maintaining a consciousness and deliberate intention throughout the development of the work.

Materials

The textile most used in Consciente – and the textile that provides the most inspiration – is a Silk Charmeuse made of 70% hemp and 30% silk, purchased from Pickering International, a San Francisco-based company that specializes in textiles made from sustainable and organic fibers.

In the collection, both the textile’s shiny front-side and matte back-side are used to maximize the potential of each individual fabric.

The textile was chosen not because it was sustainable, but because it was exceptionally beautiful, and draped incredibly. There is something supremely special about this fabric.

Process

Instead of relying on 2D hand-drawings to create design, my design process relies on 3D manipulation of the fabric on the dress form.

Throughout the design process I remain open, conscious, clear … I disconnect from thought and allow my the fabric to tell me what it wants to do, my hands leading me, instructing me. The process is the most enjoyable aspect of the work, as it forces me to remain open-minded, non-judgmental, and free.