Jenny Livingston’s 1991 documentary, Paris is Burning, highlights the stigma projected onto the LGBTQ+ community surrounding preconceptions of sexually transmitted diseases. The 'Venus' collection is motivated to challenge the taboo surrounding STDs and influence misconceptions surrounding this community. Methods of primary and secondary research were used to contextualise the collection, through conducting interviews, surveys and reading academic journals. 

 

Designs were developed using the movement of the lighting in the designer's photographs inspired by stills from 'Paris is Burning', combined with the ruffles and drama of the 80s LGBTQ+ ballroom. The STD slang name references were utilised through the production of a hand painted crab print inspired by the surrealist movement and work of Salvador Dali, who drew connections between seafood and sexual references (Tate, 2018). The decision to use latex was inspired by Walter Van Beirendonck’s politically charged “Paradise Pleasure Productions” 1998 collection which aims to encourage HIV protective barriers and safer sex practices (Geczy and Karaminas, 2017). Further research identified latex as a sustainable fabric choice, which attracts the millennial target customer (HANGER, 2018).

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Using hand embellished Swarovski crystals on a pink PVC bra and layering latex with organza and tulle, the collection is decadent and conceptual. With a teal velour bodysuit which unzips to reveal ‘underboob’ and clear plastic trousers with latex high cut panties underneath, the design aims to push the boundaries of what would be considered ‘tacky’ and modest. This collection celebrates self-expression and diversity by challenging preconceptions and stigma towards the LGBTQ+ community and millennial females, inspired by the 80s Ballroom Drag scene. Fabrications include a powder blue faux fur, PVC, leather, latex, silk, velvet, velour, tulle and organza.