2026 | Student

French Design Awards Gold Winner

Daughter of the Sea

Entrant

Communication University of China

Category

Fashion Design - Children's Clothing

Client's Name

Country / Region

China

Daughter of the Sea: A Functional Fairytale for the Modern Child
Inspired by Hans Christian Andersen’s timeless tale The Little Mermaid, this design collection reimagines the protagonist’s transformative journey between ocean and land. It addresses a practical yet often overlooked dilemma for young swimmers: how to balance safety with style. Many children resist bulky flotation devices, which can hinder their confidence and enjoyment in water. This project offers an elegant solution through innovative textile engineering, blending fantasy with functionality.
The core innovation lies in the use of advanced buoyant materials, specifically a closed-cell foam laminate bonded to a chlorine-resistant nylon-spandex hybrid fabric. This composition provides inherent uplift without relying on external inflatables, allowing freedom of movement while ensuring safety. The fabric’s rapid-drying and moisture-wicking properties enable seamless transition from water to land, making it suitable for extended wear beyond the pool.
The narrative depth of the collection is visually articulated through styling choices—such as pairing the swimwear with delicate leather shoes—echoing the mermaid’s longing for human life. This symbolic gesture reinforces the garment’s dual-purpose nature: it is both a performance-driven swimsuit and a versatile everyday piece. By merging poetic symbolism with technical innovation, Daughter of the Sea empowers children to explore their own stories of adventure and independence, redefining what functional wear can aspire to be.

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