The collaboration of designers Alexis Walsh and Justin Hattendorf led to the creation of APEX Coat, a sleeveless coat whose embellishments were printed in 3D. Structures of viral formations, both rigid and complex geometries inspired this collection.
Well known for its 3D print dress with miniature tiles and arrows (Lysis), Alexis Walsh wanted the APEX Coat collection to marry “handcrafted embellishment and generative digital form.”
It is indeed realized with the generative design for which Walsh used of a custom software application. The latter combines tactile and manual clothing manufacturing techniques with generative and digital modelling.
The drawn models were then photographed and downloaded into the simulation software. It generates thereafter randomized shapes and placement in order to adjust to the subtle curves and boundaries of the pattern.
Studs were at the beginning prototyped using MakerBot 3D printers. They were later made with the help of Voodoo Manufacturing.
For designers, “these formations result in an array of structures that hug the body in sinuous curves, while the stark black of the coat’s fabric serves as a visual contrast to erode the rounded edges of the studs.”
The APEX Coat was first exposed during the Fashion show of Havard Identities on April 15th. It will soon be seen on the next fashion weeks in Berlin and Barcelona.