LUCID DREAM

My capstone collection, Lucid Dream, explores the surreal, psychological journey of lucid dreaming—beginning with passive dreaming, progressing to conscious awareness, and ultimately seizing control over one’s dream narrative. The story draws from personal themes of finding one’s true self, breaking free from perfect expectations to something more real, raw, and full of flaws. The idea that lucid dreaming, realizing the act of dreaming and taking over the narrative, reflects my story of realizing my flaws and finding myself in a world that seeks perfection. Inspiration also comes from Korean streetwear that reflects the K-pop influences that shape my personal style in fashion and has become a big part of my identity. The collection merges personal, cultural, and aesthetic influences into a cohesive story of self-empowerment. The collection falls within the women’s ready-to-wear category and includes a balanced mix of streetwear-inspired tops, wide-leg pants, deconstructed skirts, and a few outerwear pieces. The collection introduces that dreamlike feel with flowing fabrics, layered textures, and asymmetrical draping. At the same time, it is paired with a sharper, more structured feel, incorporating materials such as denim, metal detailing, and heavier fabrics to evoke a rock, gothic energy.

Key concepts explored in the collection include lucid dreaming, the story of finding one’s identity, and taking control over one’s narrative, expressed through fashion. Research draws from academic theory on dream consciousness and visual storytelling in design, including Geczy and Karaminas’ exploration of fashion’s relationship to subculture and identity (2012), and Evans’ writings on fashion as a narrative and psychological space (2003). These theories support the collection’s foundation: that clothing can reflect not only external style but internal transformation. I took a deep dive into my personal interests and hobbies, such as music and film, and I felt inspired by things that had a deeper meaning beyond the surface and created something I could relate to. I created this collection with that same goal in mind. I wanted this collection to speak to the things that make me who I am and tell a story that could reach out to people. In addition, the collection offers an identity-centred, culturally layered collection that bridges East and West, filling a gap in the market for Asian-inspired streetwear that isn’t based on stereotypes or typical traditional wear. This collection is an embodiment of my identity and stories, and holds my hopes and values in the form of fashion, which I hope can reach out to people and empower them.