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Creative Design: Undergraduate

Danger in Beauty Standards: Chasing Poison Butterflies

Authors
  • Ashley Rougeaux-Burnes (Texas Tech University)
  • Erin Cooley (Texas Tech University)

Abstract

Danger in Beauty Standards was created to bring attention to the topic of toxic beauty standards in South Korea. This ensemble has two main parts – a flattering feminine dress, and a stiff corset. The dress was originally black but has been bleached in a randomized matter, creating different shades across the garment up to an almost pure white. Parts of the dress are missing, torn, or fraying. From afar, the garment appears to have a beautiful silhouette and range of colors, but when looked at closer the viewer feels concerned or disgusted. The corset is constructed from paper mâché, molded to a specific female form and unrelenting to any other body shape. The last notable detail within the corset is the cluster of butterflies, a symbol of beauty, made from metal wire. These represent manufactured beauty as opposed to remaining in their natural beautiful form.

Keywords: SURFACE DESIGN, experimental process, wearable art

How to Cite:

Rougeaux-Burnes, A. & Cooley, E., (2025) “Danger in Beauty Standards: Chasing Poison Butterflies”, International Textile and Apparel Association Annual Conference Proceedings 81(1). doi: https://doi.org/10.31274/itaa.18921

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Published on
2025-01-21

Peer Reviewed