Dolon, Regina
@re.gigi / @lovelor.n

Nocturnal Reverie delves into the haunting allure of queer identity and forbidden love within the realm of horror. Drawing from gothic romance and 1970s sapphic vampire cinema, the collection resurrects Carmilla (Sheridan Le Fanu, 1872) as a figure of empowerment and desire reclaimed. By merging historical references with contemporary subcultural silhouettes, it transforms the once-exploited lesbian vampire trope into a narrative of strength, intimacy, and metamorphosis—an ode to sapphic love’s depth, power, and tenderness.

Gigi Dolon, the creative force driving Lovelorn, channels her fascination with art, literature, and film into evocative explorations of love, rebellion, and transformation. Rooted in alternative culture and romantic melancholy, Lovelorn embodies a celebration of imperfection—finding beauty in what is raw, complex, and unconventional.

The most challenging part of designing this collection was material selection, as some fabrics did not translate the vision as intended, highlighting the importance of careful sourcing. Despite this, the final stages of construction became the most rewarding, as seeing the garments completed made the overall vision feel cohesive and fully realized. If given the opportunity to revisit one stage of the process, more time would be dedicated to exploring alternative materials to better support the intended silhouettes and textures. Look 5 underwent the most transformation, particularly in its sleeve and neckline construction, which required multiple pattern revisions to achieve a more cohesive and functional design. Throughout the process, the initial concept evolved from a more gender-neutral approach to one that embraced femininity. This collection reinforced the designer’s identity and queerness, demonstrating how personal interests and lived experience can be translated into design. Technically, the process strengthened sewing precision and confidence through repeated construction and hands-on use of various machines.

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