Arts Thread

Nouka Rous
Fashion Design Degree

ArtEZ University of the Arts

Specialisms: Womenswear / Formal/Couture / Textiles for Fashion

Location: Den Haag, Netherlands

nouka-rous ArtsThread Profile
ArtEZ University of the Arts

Nouka Rous

Nouka Rous ArtsThread Profile

First Name: Nouka

Last Name: Rous

Specialisms: Womenswear / Formal/Couture / Textiles for Fashion

Sectors:

My Location: Den Haag, Netherlands

University / College: ArtEZ University of the Arts

Course / Program Title: Fashion Design Degree

About

CONCEPT 

My collection is an exploration into a sense of (queer) self within society’s expectations of femininity. I am interested in the friction such constraints can cause, and the gradual transformation into one’s true self, which can be difficult yet liberating. My collection takes place in this moment of struggle; mental growing pains are made visible. My models are partially restricted in their movement, while some garments fall away from them like discarded cocoons. Using body language and materiality as a means of expression, I have made fragile sculptures ranging from protective shells to vulnerable transparencies to tell this story. 


PROCESS 

I wish to contribute to a more sustainable fashion industry, both in use of materials and approach to the work. My designs always start out as drapes, which means I sculpt around and reshape the body. My collection is mostly sewn by hand and made up of natural fibers and deadstock fabrics. Tactility is a storytelling tool to me, from knitted lace and molded leather to bias cut silk organza and ceramic accessories. I work in slow fashion: one-off handcrafted pieces for an audience who values fashion as a political and performative art form, not just for its consumptive wearability. 

CONCEPT My collection is an exploration into a sense of (queer) self within society’s expectations of femininity. I am interested in the friction such constraints can cause, and the gradual transformation into one’s true self, which can be difficult yet liberating. My collection takes place in this moment of struggle; mental growing pains are made visible. My models are partially restricted in their movement, while some garments fall away from them like discarded cocoons. Using body language and materiality as a means of expression, I have made fragile sculptures ranging from protective shells to vulnerable transparencies to tell this story. PROCESS I wish to contribute to a more sustainable fashion industry, both in use of materials and approach to the work. My designs always start out as drapes, which means I sculpt around and reshape the body. My collection is mostly sewn by hand and made up of natural fibers and deadstock fabrics. Tactility is a storytelling tool to me, from knitted lace and molded leather to bias cut silk organza and ceramic accessories. I work in slow fashion: one-off handcrafted pieces for an audience who values fashion as a political and performative art form, not just for its consumptive wearability.