Existence Black Silk Engineered Knit Gown

A sculptural black silk gown created through engineered knit construction, designed and made in England by Alina Stanila. Developed three-dimensionally on the mannequin rather than from a conventional paper pattern, the gown is constructed from 14 individually engineered knitted panels. Each section is produced on a domestic knitting machine before being assembled and finished by hand. Traditional silk yarn is combined with monofilament to create areas of structure, transparency and negative space, while blush-pink viscose piping traces the construction lines across the body. The silk is dyed black after construction, creating subtle depth and variation throughout the knitted surface. This method produces zero cutting waste, as the individual sections are engineered to shape rather than cut from lengths of fabric. Approximately one month is required to realise a garment using this construction. Designed by Alina Stanila. Made in England.

Originally developed by Alina Stanila as an exploration of engineered knitwear and three-dimensional garment construction, the Existence gown blurs the distinction between textile and pattern. Rather than cutting a conventional fabric pattern, the silhouette is developed directly on the mannequin from individually engineered knitted sections. Fourteen panels work together to contour the body, with contrasting pink piping revealing the construction lines and architecture of the garment. The result is a sculptural floor-length gown in which the textile, pattern and finished silhouette are developed as one.

Sculpted, close-fitting silhouette through the bodice, waist and hips, opening into a full floor-length hem. The engineered knitted construction follows the contours of the body while areas of monofilament create controlled transparency and flexibility. Please refer to the listed garment measurements before ordering. For assistance with fit, contact us before purchase.

Main yarn: 100% silk. Contrast detail: pink viscose piping. Engineered knit construction incorporating monofilament. Hand dyed black after construction and finished by hand. Due to the specialist construction and delicate silk structure, professional specialist cleaning is recommended. Do not machine wash, tumble dry or bleach. Store flat or carefully supported and avoid prolonged hanging, which may place unnecessary strain on the knitted structure.

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Eligible items can be returned under our standard online returns policy.

Please notify us within 14 days of receiving your order. You then have a further 14 days to send your return.

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One available. An original Alina Stanila archive piece, individually engineered, knitted and hand finished in England. This construction requires approximately one month to realise.