If you've ever wondered what a bulletproof kimono would look like, wonder no longer. Designer Miya Ando has chosen to create and celebrate her Japanese heritage by creating a kimono made entirely of stainless steel. The kimono is held together by tiny squares of stainless steel plates and sterling silver rings. It took nearly 4,000 rings and plates to create the garment, with each piece being carefully handcrafted by the designer herself. I cannot imagine how heavy this steel kimono must be, but I'm positive it would make an excellent piece of armor.
The artist stated that "[her] intention is to transform the steel, and put it back to the public. A metaphor for transforming tragedy." Miya Ando has found a way to celebrate steel and armor that is separate from blood and violence. Her interpretation of steeled armor is a symbol for peace, unity and protection.
What's Driving This Trend
- Bulletproof Clothing
- Designing bulletproof clothing is an opportunity for fashion designers to create new styles of clothing that prioritize safety and protection.
- Steel Fashion
- The use of steel in fashion can be explored further to create unique and innovative designs.
- Ethnic-inspired Clothing
- Traditional clothing styles from different cultures can be used as inspiration for modern clothing designs that are both functional and fashionable.
Who This Affects Most
- Fashion
- Designing bulletproof clothing, exploring the use of steel in fashion, and creating ethnic-inspired clothing are all innovation opportunities for the fashion industry.
- Security and Defense
- The creation of bulletproof clothing can disrupt the security and defense industry by providing new options for individuals or groups in need of protection.
- Metallurgy
- Further exploration into the use of stainless steel in clothing design can provide innovation opportunities for the metallurgy industry.
