For my third-year work placement I went to the namesake label Jessica Flora, located in Kurow. Her brand values encompassing sustainability and the priority of utilising natural resources really connected me to her brand, and helped shape the foundation of my internship-based collection Descend into Madness. My given theme of “design a collection to host a dinner party” led me down the path of a decadent, Saltburn-esque soirée. Keeping sustainability at the forefront of my designs, I used 100% biodegradable natural fibres such as silk chiffon, cotton broadcloth, and viscose satin. My collection also reflected the landscape of Jessica Flora being based in Kurow, with flowy fabrics mimicking the Waitaki river and the deep reds reflecting the glowing sunsets across the southern skies. I pulled elements from corsetry and drape to design a cohesive collection that exuberated decadence and romance. Rooted in a dark, sultry elegance, this collection explores texture, femininity, and allure.