Visually impaired student makes Braille-inspired garments

Bianca used her heightened sense of touch to decide how pieces of fabric should be put together. Her feminine, asymmetrical designs are made from sheer and mottled fabrics such as organza, lace and silk chiffon, which are layered to create a blurred effect that represents how she sees the world around her.  

Rather than the raised bumps normally associated with Braille, the holes have been laser-cut into nude pink-coloured coated canvas.

Inspired by the late deaf and blind American author Helen Keller's famous quote, “the only thing worse than being blind is having sight but no vision”, Bianca has incorporated the words into the fabric of her garments to create a form of negative, or inverse, Braille.

“The shapes become different letters depending on which way you turn the material, as the patterns work back to front. I wanted to explore the idea of viewing things through touch – not just with your eyes,” said Bianca.

The 23 year old has been shortlisted for the prestigious Sophie Hallette University Design Challenge, which celebrates innovative and creative use of lace.  (HO)

Fibre2Fashion News Desk – India