Bittersweet: A Fusion of Prison and Barbie

Kim Tiziana Rottmuller's Award-Winning Womenswear Collection

The Bittersweet collection is characterized by its unique blend of contrasting elements. Rottmuller has skillfully merged ruffles and tube-like constructions in jet black and pale pink to symbolize the contrast of bitter and sweet. The collection also features massive tube-like cages on the legs and arms, blacksmith headpieces, and an iron skirt, all with a touch of sweetness. The garments are made from soft and light merino wool and heavy iron, further emphasizing the theme of opposites attracting.

Rottmuller's innovative design process involved machine sewing, hand sewing, hand knitting with merino wool, machine embroidery, fabric manipulation, and handsmith work. The tubes in the garments are filled with a flexible plastic, which supports the shape without being heavy. The garments are designed to be size XS/S, with the iron skirt measuring 120cm in length and 250cm in extent, and the tubes measuring 80cm in extent.

The Bittersweet collection was created as part of Rottmuller's third-year collection for her Fashion Design studies at Polimoda in Florence, Italy. The project began in October 2016 and was completed in mid-June 2017. The collection has since been showcased at New York Fashion Week in 2018, Vancouver Fashion Week in 2017, and at Finest Finest during London Fashion Week.

Rottmuller's design was inspired by the concept of mental prisons and the desire to break free from self-imposed limits. Her research involved a mix of contemporary and historical inspirations, gained through books, the internet, and exhibitions. She experimented extensively with shape and volume to support the idea through the silhouette and color. The garments were sewn several times in heavy cotton, with patterns, draping, and continuous fittings on models contributing to the final appearance.

The Bittersweet collection presented several creative challenges, particularly in the sewing process. Rottmuller had to adapt the materials, especially the iron, to the physical necessities of the human body in a comfortable way. Despite these challenges, the collection has been internationally recognized for its innovative design and has been published in diverse media.

In conclusion, Kim Tiziana Rottmuller's Bittersweet collection is a remarkable example of innovative design that pushes the boundaries of fashion. The collection's unique blend of contrasting elements, its exploration of mental prisons, and its commitment to breaking free from self-imposed limits make it a truly groundbreaking work of art.