Year Three - Final Major Project

“Sewn into Scandal”

My major project costume collection was created for an imaginary Netflix production called “Sewn Into Scandal” set in Mother Claps Molly House. It explores the theatrical interplay of gender, identity, and historical dress through the lens of 18th-century queer subcultures. Based on historical figures in my dissertation, this project brings to life the flamboyant figure of Princess Seraphina - a pioneer of queer visibility - and the gentleman’s valet (reimagined as a tailor) John Cooper.

Although Seraphina and Cooper were historically the same person, I chose to treat them as two distinct characters for this collection, each embodying different facets of their identity and navigating self-expression in both public and private spheres. By reimagining their attire with a Vivienne Westwood twist with bold, modern hues and a healthy dose of punk flair, these costumes celebrate resistance, community, and the messy, glorious joy of being unapologetically yourself.