Abstract.

Binary gender as a design model in the fashion industry, places limitations on gender expression. Gender is not as simple as the binary system that Western society endorses. Gender and gender expression need room for movement, change and diversity. Gender is fluid and a bi-model view of gender restricts this and can have detrimental side effects on a person's mental health. This research project undertakes an exploration of textile making processes to develop an alternative and imaginative approach to textile design for fashion garments, where the outcomes offer new possibilities for gender fluidity. Fashion is a tool for self-expression, although current traditional fashion and fashion retail processes tend to enhance and re-enforce binary gender values in society. Shapeshifting textiles offer a potential to drive change. This practice-based research approach results in a textile collection and fashion garment that isn’t confined by binary gender limitations and starts a conversation where current New Zealand societies relationship with gender can change.