The Unity Paradox is a collection that investigates the tension between unity and individuality, rooted in my own experience of being a twin. As a twin, I understand the feeling of existing within an inseparable unit — bound by DNA and by how others perceive us as one rather than as two. This dual id
entity creates a constant negotiation between belonging and independence.
The project is inspired by Henry Sambrooke Leigh’s 19th-century poem The Twins, which frames the twin’s lifelong struggle for recognition through the question: “What would you do, if you were me, to prove that you were you?” It also draws on Hans Eijkelboom’s documentation of the unofficial in society, where office wear makes strangers appear alike even without any connection, and on Petra Collins’ series Why be you when you can be me?
With a focus on office wear, the collection translates these ideas into two-in-one silhouettes, mirrored details, and a redefinition of the pair. The garments are designed to be worn either together or alone — but when worn alone, they reveal that someone is missing. In this way, the clothes invite others to step in and become part of an inseparable whole. The collection also plays with duality through reversible garments and inside-out elements, giving each piece two distinct personalities.
At its core, The Unity Paradox is an exploration of identity’s complexity in the twin experience — caught between individuality and inseparability.
Prints, Womenswear, Tailoring, Embellishment, Costume Design & Artistic Representations, Lingerie & Swimwear, Pattern cutting
wool, silk, cotton poplin, cotton jersey, linning, Natural chrome-tanned leather
