Gaze

The collection is a modem take on the subculture of gay cruising in New York City. The collection's initial research comes from the 1970s, a peak for cruising in New York City. This research is then contrasted with a first-hand perspective of modern cruising. Focusing on the fleeting gaze that sparks connection, it aims to recreate intimacy and unite past and present through references to Mapplethorpe, Wojnarowicz, and Warhol. The collection aims to shock the audience and draw attention towards details in the construction and materiality, aspects of textile manipulation, and use of intimate prints shedding light on the collection's playful and directness. Utilizing cruising style sourcing of textiles and garments through websites and apps like Craigslist, these exchanges become interactions that make up the collection's research and demonstrate dedication toward the concept.
Rooted in menswear, the collection extends to a genderless form through the use of both traditional menswear tailoring techniques and dressmaking. 

- Conor O’Driscoll