Collage Education: Tracing the Patchwork Trend

Designers were in stitches for Fall 2013 as multi-patterned patchwork made a strong statement at Jean Paul Gaultier, Derek Lam, Comme des Garçons, Antonio Berardi and more. Its prevalence led to curiosity: How did the trend begin? From functional combinations to futuristic creations, we piece together the history of collage in fashion, starting with how patchwork became popular during the Depression as a way to turn old clothing into new. More a matter of circumstance than creative expression, the cost-saving measure of combining pre-worn fabrics remained widespread throughout the war.