CIRCUitS was a design research exploration of traditional handcraft techniques (millinery, tailoring, beading) and wearable light-emitting diodes (LEDs). I created a tailored coatdress and accompanying top hat, embedded with LEDs and embellished with crystal and glass beading. CIRCUitS was accepted into the juried exhibition of the 2017 national conference of the International Textile and Apparel Association (ITAA), and was displayed on the runway during the 2017 Spring Fashion Event at Auburn University. The ensemble's silhouette was inspired by the iconic circus ringmaster/mistress's top hat and tails, and reflects a nod to my professional career as a circus costume designer and technician.

Wearable LED Integration

Beading Details

Research Presentations

Confluence: Explorations into the Aesthetic Incorporation of Wearable LED Technology and Traditional Garment Embellishment Techniques

Short presentation of creative scholarship design research  on the integration of wearable LED electronics with traditional millinery, beading, and tailoring techniques.
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Discussion of design research techniques and artefact development.

Du Puis, J. L. (2017, April 26). Confluence: Explorations into the aesthetic incorporation of wearable LED technology and traditional garment embellishment techniques [Video]. In College of Human Sciences at Auburn University’s 2017 CHS Symposium. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ovuI4Gi9Bvo

Auburn University College of Human Sciences Symposium 2017