A phygital self: cultural hybridity and queerness in virtual fashion practice

Stamatopoulou, Sophia Dolores (2023) A phygital self: cultural hybridity and queerness in virtual fashion practice. Masters by Research thesis (MPhil), Manchester Metropolitan University.

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Abstract

The aim of this research is to extend the work of IoDF by focusing on CLO as a leading software provider for commercial fashion professionals and suggest ways of diversifying their modification options. Informed by my lived experience of cultural hybridity and queerness, I explore the lack of representation of intersectional identities within virtual fashion practice. Following Robin Nelson’s Practice as Research framework (2013) this submission includes a written thesis with embedded digital practice and passages of autoethnographic writing. By adopting a phygital approach in this inquiry, this project suggests that embracing a hybrid (physical and digital) process, could provide a temporary solution for 3D software users. The other element of the practical process involves the development of a self-avatar and virtual garments using exclusively CLO, Photoshop and Sizemic scanned data. Inspired by the Institute of Digital Fashion’s report on inclusivity within virtual worlds, I critically reflect on the accuracy of my self-avatar, to critique the limited customisation options available to fashion practitioners/users. This practice as research project utilises performative autoethnography to support the inquiry. Through the composition of blogposts of personal reflection, this research explores the experience of displacement and discomfort, and the negotiation of gender and sexuality in a largely heteronormative landscape. Consideration also was given to the representation of a broader audience; therefore, participants were invited to share their thoughts and experiences in response to the blogposts.