Silicone Rubber Fashion
During the development of my thesis, the exploration of materials beyond conventional fabrics was imperative to accurately capture the essence of human flesh in pieces inspired by "The Texas Chainsaw Massacre." Thus began a significant wave of studies centered around the utilization of silicone. Silicone rubber is a staple in the realm of horror film special effects due to its uncanny resemblance to human skin. Despite its delicate appearance, the material possesses remarkable elasticity and durability. Interestingly, when adhered to fabric, this substance gained even greater resilience, and if not overly thick, it could even be sewn using a sewing machine. Silicone emerged as the ideal material for creating "human skin garments." However, to truly encapsulate the realistic impression of wearing something sewn by Leatherface, the incorporation of blood into the silicone was essential. After all, in "The Texas Chainsaw Massacre," Leatherface's furniture and masks aren't characterized by seamless finishes; quite the opposite. They boast bloodstains, exposed stitches, and even staples, which contribute to their unsettling allure. The meticulous approach taken to replicate the chaotic yet strangely captivating details of Leatherface's creations demonstrates not only a commitment to artistic interpretation but also a dedication to capturing the essence of horror aesthetics. The silicone, with its flexibility and capacity to merge with textiles, enabled the manifestation of a unique synergy—a convergence of fabric and skin, reality and macabre fiction. In sum, the integration of silicone into the realm of textile design allowed for the creation of garments that tread the fine line between the uncanny and the captivating. This synthesis of materials, inspired by the grotesque charm of "The Texas Chainsaw Massacre," brings a new dimension to fashion, where the boundaries between horror and artistry meld to conjure a unique and unsettling allure.