Ethereal Whispers

Chloe Deng is a womenswear designer with a passion for transforming unconventional materials into unique fabrics. In my latest collection, Ethereal Whispers, I make the normal fabrics into wallpaper to tell the story of a goddess who descends from the second world into human reality. The collection uses a first-person perspective to tell the story of the goddess' journey through the complexities of the human world. At first, she descends with curiosity and ignorance in delicate tulle fabrics, but encounters social scrutiny and hostile gazes, and by the end of the story she reconciles with herself and fights back through her own power. Through this narrative, I explore themes of growth and metamorphosis, emphasising how women can break free from society's constraints on wearing while maintaining their inviolable private space. My fabric designs are inspired by the work of Francesca Woodman as well as shabby walls and vintage lace, particularly her use of wallpaper to obscure and reshape the perception of her body. This inspiration led me to experiment with wallpaper and curtains, creating patterns that both conceal and reveal, echoing the Goddess's search for comfort and safety in her new environment. By incorporating these elements, I aim to create a safe, intimate space for women and to witness the power of self-discovery and the beauty of embracing one's true self.