Fashion Alert: Alexis Walsh to Debut 3D Printed Lysis Collection at New York 3D Printshow

It’s always busy in New York, where the show never ends in terms of activity, action, and a focus on the latest and greatest in every sector from technology to fashion. This week though will be very busy for a large number of attendees and exhibitors gearing up for 3D Printshow, beginning April 16^th.

3D printing in fashion, requiring added talent and technicality in craftsmanship, is always of great interest as it usually packs a big punch visually, functioning not only as apparel, but also generally stunning artwork.

One new designer we’ll look forward to seeing is Alexis Walsh, who will be debuting her 3D printed fashions at the show, with the Lysis Collection–as well as her fashion film (check it out at the bottom of this page).

Parsons-educated Walsh is a resident New Yorker. Not surprisingly for a fashion designer, Walsh centers around using the body as a canvas. What is surprising though is her choice of media and materials, with a penchant for pushing both artistic and fashion boundaries through use of 3D printing in wearable art, as well as the use of metal and plastic materials. All of her pieces are hand-sewn together.

“Drawing inspiration from virulent formations and deterioration, the LYSIS COLLECTION consists of constructions that mimic the growth of viral structures while blending organic shapes with rigid structural silhouettes,” Walsh told 3DPrint.com. “Through interdisciplinary fabrication, CAD modeling and 3D printing technology is combined with traditional handcrafting technique.”

Photography by Emily Elkins

 

Walsh’s 3D printed fashion actually appears wearable—and even for fairly normal outings or events. Walsh makes edgy clothes for the fashion-savvy set with items like A-line leather skirts, a striking mesh top that features a 3D printed neckpiece, and tops and a long dress with 3D printed hems and sleeves, as well as a new and totally welcome spin on the babydoll dress, bearing a 3D printed bra and leather bodice.

In total, there are six comprehensive styles for the Lysis Collection, with ten individual garments. Walsh is skilled in 3D design, using Rhino for all of the Lysis pieces, which Shapeways 3D printed in nylon. After 3D printing by Shapeways, each piece is sanded, dyed, and finished by hand. Of further interest in terms of detail, Walsh also used a 3Doodler 3D printing pen for trim.

While the 3Doodler is more commonly used in traditional artwork, it is becoming more and more popular in the fashion and haute couture industry via designers who are technologically savvy and operate on the cutting edge with materials and manufacturing processes. Walsh is able to use it to her own devices quite well for intricacy and detail in her work.

The initial development of Walsh’s line was advised by Sabine Seymour, of Eyebeam and Moondial. It’s important to note also that the collection was funded through the Shapeways Education Grant, the first of its kind. Photography for the collection was provided by Emily Elkins, a student at Parsons New School for Design, who graduates this year.

The 3D Printshow, being held in seven major cities this year at different times, runs in New York April 16-19^th at Center548, one of the most exciting venues in New York City.

Will you be catching Walsh’s fashions at the New York 3D Printshow? What do you think of the recent trends and materials regarding 3D printing being used in fashion? Share with us in the 3D Printed Lysis Collection by Alexis Walsh forum thread over at 3DPB.com.