This thesis focuses on empowering feminine design through the application of historic reference to assert fashion design as a form of engineering.

Empowerment through design examines the intersection of utility, necessity and quality to better serve the modern woman. With the employment of soft tailoring techniques and thoughtful pattern engineering, oversized silhouettes, pockets and adjustable details provide comfort and freedom of movement. These garments seek to serve the body rather than sexualize it.

Inspiration is drawn from the female empowerment of the Dutch Golden Age. Seventeenth century Dutch society saw a social restructuring in which women not only controlled the domestic sphere but also became highly involved in business and trade. As women’s roles expanded beyond the home, gender distinction in garments became less apparent, with social and economic prosperity represented in both male and female costume as voluminous sleeves, wide collars and intricate pleating details executed in luxurious, natural fabrics.

The process of an engineer and a designer are one and the same: conceiving, innovating and creating to artfully bring something about. I propose to present the elements of this research so as to reconcile design as a form of engineering in a way that reflects my own analytical approach to fashion design. There will be particular emphasis on advanced patternmaking, tailoring and construction techniques that emphasize the calculation and craftsmanship involved in translating conceptual design into a wearable form.