Recent MOME graduate Tóth Lala discusses her innovative approach to fashion that emphasizes artistic expression and sustainability, challenging traditional norms in the industry.
Tóth Lala, a recent graduate of the MOME (Moholy-Nagy University of Art and Design) Master’s program in Fashion and Textile Design, is making significant strides in redefining the intersection of fashion and art. In an interview as part of the “Future of Fashion” series featured in Marie Claire Hungary, Tóth discussed her innovative artistic approach that diverges from traditional fashion design, focusing instead on conceptual themes and the role of clothing in society.
Tóth’s artistic journey began in her teenage years, where she experimented with handmade jewelry and bags crafted from zippers. She recalls her first attempt at fashion design involved creating a dress made entirely of metal zippers, which served as her introduction to sewing. “This piece is where I learned to sew; I remember how heavy and almost unwearable the final result was, yet I wore it to a school party once,” she said.
In her master’s thesis, Tóth explored the complicated relationship between creators and their creations, attempting to detach herself from her works through their destruction—a process she described as enlightening but not fully successful. “In the fashion field, as in almost every art form, identification with our work is heavily present,” Tóth noted, reflecting on the pressure artists often face regarding their self-worth and the pursuit of perfection.
Having shifted her focus primarily towards fine arts in 2020, Tóth explained that the creative environment within traditional fashion roles did not provide the artistic challenges she craved. This led her to adopt a more autonomous artistic practice. “I see fine arts much more as my primary work, and fashion as an extra activity,” she stated.
Tóth’s work, particularly in her “Homo Cubus” series, interrogates the concept of clothing as a reflection of identity, imagining what future societies might infer about us through our attire. She describes clothing as a descriptive group of artifacts that could reveal a multitude of information about its wearers, including biological structure and personal narratives. This project showcases a dystopian vision where clothing artifacts signify a future world marked by extreme population density and uniformity.
In exploring the dynamics of wearability versus artistic expression in fashion, Tóth asserts that while everyday wearability is important, there is also value in the more avant-garde pieces which fulfill different functions, such as in photoshoots and fashion shows.
Her ongoing “Unidentified T-Shirt Object” (UTO) project encapsulates her vision of merging fashion with sustainability and innovation. By creating jewelry-like transformations of ordinary t-shirts through 3D printing, she highlights a shift in how clothing can be perceived. Tóth draws inspiration from sci-fi culture, noting its capacity to comment on contemporary social issues within a futuristic framework. “By creating this distance, it can articulate a freer criticism without ties, making clearer observations,” she shared.
Sustainability plays a crucial role in Tóth’s work philosophy, particularly in her approach to the UTO brand. Made from biodegradable materials, her t-shirt jewelry aims to reduce environmental impact while incorporating regenerative design practices. She utilizes locally-sourced production methods and compostable packaging made from mycelium mushrooms.
When discussing the future of fashion trends, Tóth humorously expressed concern over the possible return of skinny jeans. At the same time, she emphasized the importance of creativity and the privilege that comes with being able to focus on artistic pursuits.
As she continues to develop her career within the realms of fashion and conceptual art, Tóth remains attached to her clothes, many of which carry sentimental value. She appreciates the intricacies involved in garment creation and values pieces for their design and craftsmanship.
Tóth Lala’s contributions to the future of fashion underscore a thoughtful blend of artistic vision, critical reflection on societal norms, and a commitment to sustainable practices. As she forges her path in the industry, her work invites a conversation about the evolving roles of clothing and the deeper narratives they convey in contemporary society.
Source: Noah Wire Services
