By Cassandra Pizzey /asdf 15-12-2010

As part of her Transformations series, recent Design Academy Eindhoven graduate Camille Cortet has designed a pair of snake-skin leggings that literally molt.

Transformations started out as a research into animal behaviour and their ability to transform by shedding skin or acquiring a new set of feathers. "I made a book of inspirations called Transformations in which I analysed the outer layers of animals," says Cortet.  "I looked at colours and texture, and the meaning of their transformations through growth, camouflage, metamorphosis and seduction."

She continues: "I then translated the animal behaviour into our own human culture, expressed by body ornaments." Instead of creating a series of accessories using fake-fur or a zebra-print for instance, the resulting pieces actually allow the wearer to experience the behaviour of an animal. Take the Snake&Molting legwear; these leggings are made from laser-cut polyester which appear flat when not worn, showing a regular, geometric pattern. However, put them on and the textile comes to life, creating a 3D pattern on the skin which evolves through wear and tear. "The tights are strong enough to be worn several times, but like regular tights will crack after a while. The feeling of the 3D texture is a bit addictive and at one point you will start to pick at the  the tights." This results in a molting of the second skin, much like a snake does when its skin get too small or old.

The extravagant yet elegant leggings started out as a pattern on paper, as Cortet explains: "After evolving the pattern I needed to research materials; because I use a laser-cutting technique, I had to find a material that could withhold its strength even after melting. These leggings are made from polyester, but I'm developing a new line in leather."

In addition to the Snake&Molting legwear, Cortet has also developed a series of neck-accessories named Bird&seduction. The menswear accessory range comprises a series of textile and coated paper collars, which can be worn down or up, forming large 3-dimensional ruffs. Much like a bird of paradise, the wearer can choose to display his true colours by creating an impressive ornament around his body in the form of the collar .

Click on the images to enlarge

Main image: Snake&Molting
Other images top to bottom: 1. Snake&Molting 2. Transformations 3. Snake&Molting 4. Bird&seduction 5. Bird&seduction

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