Keara Friel

Keara Friel

Collection

Veil of Myth

Stories of creatures like the jackalope emerge from liminal spaces where reality falters and the subconscious weaves its own truth. Why do we invent these beings? What do they reveal about the fragile line between reason and instinct? 
"Veil of Myth" investigates the connection between human fears and the creation of myths, particularly in the context of fashion. This project examines how humanity's anxieties regarding nature and the unknown have led to mythological narratives providing agency and power. By exploring various cultural mythologies, the thesis reveals how stories and symbols have historically been employed to navigate the unpredictable aspects of existence, serving as a means to control and make sense of the environment.
Image: Look one, titled Unfiltered Nature, takes inspiration from nature weaving materials together over time, much like moss growing over stones. The craft of felting was used to mimic nature and bring materials together.
Image: Look two, titled Duality of Myth, combines elements of concealment and revalation. The sheer tunic acts as a veil, hining at the body beneath while distorting its form, much like how myths distort the truth. In contrast the heavy fur pieces evoke the wild and primal essence of mythical creatures.
Image: Look three, titled Ornamentation of Myth, explores where embelishment and storytelling combine to make something new. The hand knit bolero eveokes the crafsmanshio of traditional garments, echoing the way myths are passed down and woven into culture over time. Through intricate hand work and layred textures, this look embodies the way myths are not just storys but elaborate constructions.
Image: Look four, titled Spirit of the Woods, takes inspiration from the symbolism deers hold in mythology. The printed deer hide jeans root the look in the natural world. Meanwhile the puffy coat adds asence of protection, like a deer hiding in the woods.
Image: Look five, titled Embodiment of Myth, showcases how human fears weave together to create legends. The handwoven materiality is a physcial manifestation of this idea, with each thread symbolizing a fear of the unknown. Utilizing the antler as a closure serves as a direct link to mythical creatures, blurring the line between human imagination and the natural world. The skirt adds a sence of movement and transformation, reflecting how myths shift and eveolve over time.

Credit

Photography Risa Koehler, Photography assistant Julia Berger, Models Paris Hovanian and Farrah Wohlford, Special Thanks Joyce Friel and Isabel Simmer

Bio

Keara Friel is a designer whose work is deeply informed by research. With a background in fashion and cultural studies, she explores the intersection of nature and humanity through narrative-driven design. Her thesis, Veil of Myth, investigates how collective fears shape myths of nature. Committed to sustainability and ethical practices, Keara believes in the power of socially responsible design. Her work challenges societal norms and highlights fashion’s storytelling power, aiming to inspire more thoughtful and meaningful engagement with fashion.

Keara Friel has gained industry experience through internships at several fashion brands, including Dauphinette, AKNVAS, and Cynthia Rowley, where she contributed to both design development and studio practices. She further expanded her global perspective by studying abroad at Central Saint Martins in London, where she deepened her understanding of innovative design approaches and international fashion culture.

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