Evolution as the body’s adaptation to the world
EXUVIA
Thesis project by Asia Lillaz
Academic year
2025-2026
EXUVIA is a genderless collection that reflects on the meaning of evolution in a present shaped by environmental, social and identity-related crises. The project questions the idea of progress as the constant enhancement of the human being and proposes an alternative perspective: to imagine evolution as biological adaptation, as the ability to transform and redefine one’s balance with the environment.
The research takes shape through the hypothesis of Homo Reptilis, an imaginary species inspired by reptiles as models of survival, autonomy and transformation. Shell, skin and ecdysis become design tools to rethink the relationship between body, garment and environment. Organic volumes, padding, material surfaces and anatomical details build hybrid silhouettes, suspended between protection and exposure, vulnerability and resistance. The garment becomes a second skin, an extension of the body designed to adapt to a hostile world.
The thesis project guides students in the development of a complete fashion collection, transforming cultural and narrative research into a professional and sustainable product. Through artistic, social and stylistic references, each student develops an original concept that translates into material research, experimentation with fabrics, colours, prints and embroidery. The path leads to the creation of an 18-outfit collection, supported by physical and digital prototypes, photo shoots and communication tools, enhancing the entire creative and production process of the contemporary fashion designer.
Supervisor: Alessandra Montanaro
Co-supervisor: Simona Dell’Unto
Project from the courses of
