Creative Design: Undergraduate

Bury Me

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Abstract

Bury Me proposes a fully circular design solution that aligns fashion with natural cycles by enabling garments to biodegrade safely at the end of their life. Drawing inspiration from Hussein Chalayan’s buried garments and Maison Margiela’s explorations of mold as surface design, the project transforms conceptual experimentation into practical application. The collection uses silk, plant-based dyes, plastic-free paints, and biodegradable closures to create vibrant, contemporary garments that counter the misconception that sustainability limits aesthetic expression. Prints derived from the molecular structure of landfill-emitted toxins are reimagined as floral motifs, symbolizing regeneration. Digital prototyping in CLO 3D streamlined design development while honoring traditional craft through hand block-printing enhanced by 3D-printed tools. By inviting consumers to complete the lifecycle through burial, Bury Me reframes consumption and disposal practices. Ultimately, the project demonstrates a viable circular fashion model and advocates for systemic change toward planetary well-being.

Keywords: circular design, natural dye, clo 3d, biodegradable

How to Cite:

Riewe Stevenson, K. & Stauffer, R., (2025) “Bury Me”, International Textile and Apparel Association Annual Conference Proceedings 82(1). doi: https://doi.org/10.31274/itaa.21758