Master’s thesis explores the intersection of Slovenian mountaineering heritage, cultural identity, and contemporary sustainable fashion through the development of an original clothing collection. As a key element of Slovenian national identity, mountaineering features prominently in cultural narratives – from the image of Triglav to visual arts and popular culture – serving as a symbol of belonging. These historical and symbolic references are reinterpreted within a modern design context, with a focus on responsible material use, upcycling, and the integration of various textile techniques to create garments rich in visual and conceptual content.
The collection is rooted in an exploration of color dynamics, based on the observation that Slovenians tend to dress more colorfully in the mountains than in everyday life. It draws inspiration from the expressive use of color in German Expressionism and Fauvism, as well as the retro aesthetics of vintage sports and mountaineering apparel. The approach to functional clothing reflects the current zeitgeist, in which the line between outdoor gear and everyday urban fashion is increasingly blurred.
The theoretical part explores the historical development of mountaineering culture and clothing in Slovenia, the role of alpine symbolism in constructing national identity, the expressive use of color by German Expressionists, and sustainable fashion practices focused on reuse and waste reduction.
The experimental section documents the design process – from initial concept, color and textile experimentation, and layering of techniques, to garment construction. It also outlines the path to commercialization and the collection’s placement within the Slovenian cultural space through exhibitions, collaborations, and fashion shows, with the aim of bringing these textile-rich pieces closer to a wider audience.
The thesis situates the history of a mountaineering nation within a contemporary framework, reinterpreting it to highlight Slovenia’s natural and cultural wealth. It emphasizes textiles as a medium that intertwines history, identity, landscape, and modern design, while exploring how sustainable fashion can address social challenges and maintain a connection to local heritage.
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