The master’s thesis explores fashion as a medium for investigating gender, identity, and social norms through the development of an original clothing collection. It examines the role of clothing in self-expression and the influence of fashion design on changing established perceptions of gender identity, masculinity, and femininity. The aim of the thesis is to explore the interplay of cultural, social, and historical influences on men’s fashion and its development, as well as the reflection of these influences in contemporary design practice.
The theoretical section presents a historical overview of the development of men’s fashion from the 17th century to the present day and analyses how the aesthetic ideals of men’s fashion and masculinity have changed in relation to social status and gender roles. The thesis examines gender, gender identity, and gender stereotypes in order to explore feminised masculine aesthetics and the blurring of traditionally feminine and masculine elements in dress and fashion. Through case studies of the fashion brands Thom Browne and Charles Jeffrey Loverboy, it analyses the influence of gender on fashion design, as well as the influence of fashion on the development and understanding of gender and gender identity, perceptions of men’s fashion, and expressions of masculinity through dress. It also examines the fashion brands Loewe, Maison Margiela, and Rabanne, which incorporate new approaches into their design practices while drawing on traditional artisanal techniques. In addition, three musical albums and their respective eras are analysed in relation to the pursuit of attention. The albums Something to Give Each Other, Bangerz and STARFUCKER are central to the exploration of attention-seeking through sexuality, provocation, and the desire for fame.
The practical section of the master’s thesis encompasses the process of designing an original clothing collection based on the findings of the theoretical research. The themes of gender identity, fluidity, and self-expression are interpreted through a contemporary design approach involving the selection of materials and details, the application of various techniques, and experimentation with silhouette. The foundation of the collection lies in the intertwining of elements traditionally associated with men’s and women’s fashion. In this way, the collection establishes a dialogue between contemporary understandings of gender and the historical heritage of men’s dress. The collection is not merely an aesthetic product but also a research outcome that encourages critical reflection on gender and its role in contemporary society. It highlights the role of fashion in shaping identity and its potential to transcend stereotypes surrounding masculinity and femininity.
The master’s thesis combines theoretical research and design practice to demonstrate that fashion is not merely a reflection of social change but also an active tool in shaping and contributing to such change. The original collection therefore represents a design response to contemporary questions of identity, equality, and freedom of expression, while opening up space for reflection on the role of fashion in contemporary society.
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