Photos: Terry Whitaker, Model: Victoria Momeño, H&M: Julia Kuneava
9 Lives, 3 Seconds is a crochet and knit collection that reimagines post-apocalyptic fashion with upcycled materials, creating something new from the remnants of a fallen world. At its core lies the concept of time—and the idea that, a “moment” lasts only 3 seconds. In this brief span, the future becomes the past, and the present dissolves. In those 3 seconds, it often feels like we live multiple lives, moving through 9 lives in the - quite literal - blink of an eye.
The collection fuses the weight of the past with the pressing question of how we want to live in the future. In a world where materials are scarce and knowledge of traditional handcraft gets overwritten, we are forced to make the most of what remains. The designs are raw, futuristic, and melancholic, yet always fierce and elegant—like warriors, not just surviving, but thriving.
Inspired by the energy of pop-punk and the notion that beauty lies in transience, 9 Lives, 3 Seconds is a bold statement on resilience, fragility, and the unstoppable passage of time.
Aerial - Knit Dress and Crochet Mask -
This captivating ensemble embodies an avant-garde spirit, showcasing a super loose handknit dress crafted from luxurious mohair and cotton. The dress features a unique draped silhouette, where two-thirds of the fabric has been treated with fabric stiffener, allowing it to maintain a striking form that flatters the body beneath.
The right collar stands elegantly upright, while the left side showcases a floating collar that cascades over the shoulder, evoking the image of a handkerchief caught in a gust of wind. This dynamic detail appears as if it has been whimsically cast upon the wearer, draping gracefully around the body. The lower portion of the dress flows freely, akin to a train, creating an ethereal quality that enhances its fluidity.
The back of the dress is embellished with shiny crystals, adding a touch of glamour and reflecting light with every movement. Accompanying the dress is an intricately designed mask, crafted from a doily that has been soaked in fabric stiffener and molded around a Styrofoam head. This mask mirrors the playful spirit of the ensemble, featuring rhinestones that catch the light and enhancing the aesthetic of transient beauty.
Together, this ensemble evokes the image of someone who has navigated through a storm, emerging with remnants of fashion floating around them, turning chaos into art. The combination of textures and innovative design invites the wearer to embrace their individuality and make a bold statement.