Forest Adventures

This project was created during the course Thematic Studio 1.
The course topic: Connection with.

While exploring the theme of connection, I realised that I had completely disconnected from nature due to my fear of tick bites. My fear made me stop going to the forests and nature areas. To address this problem, I decided to design a whole-body suit as a protective shield.

Throughout working on this project, I discovered a growing interest in costume design, and by not having any previous experience in sewing, I decided to let myself get deep into the world of my imagination and experiment with this medium.

My project draws inspiration from the aesthetics and functionality of costumes in Dune (2021) and the TV series Silo (2023). Both narratives explore survival in hostile environments and how clothing becomes an essential tool for protection and adaptation. This idea resonated with me deeply, especially in the context of navigating the natural world—a space that, although beautiful, can also feel alienating or unsafe.

The design reflects my desire to blend in with natural surroundings rather than disrupt them. The earthy tones—muted browns, greys, and off-whites—evoke sand, soil, and stone, forming a natural camouflage that supports a respectful presence in outdoor spaces. I chose lightweight, breathable materials to balance protection with comfort, referencing the practical yet almost mystical quality of the stillsuits in Dune.

The full-body suit includes a detachable cape that adds both visual drama and function—it can serve as shelter, shade, or even a blanket. The balaclava protects against insects and dust, a necessity in both fictional desert worlds and real nature hikes. The shoulder bag is practical and rugged, with visible stitching and a utilitarian feel, hinting at repair and reuse, which are core to survivalist aesthetics. Knee, elbow, and back patches and visible seams reinforce the idea of a garment built to endure.