‘When Worlds Collide’
Olivia (Liv) Byam, a senior at Columbia College Chicago, is a fashion designer and the founder of Fudae Fashion–a brand that embodies her creative vision and design ethos. .
This year Byam was named a Fashion Scholarship Fund Scholar for her case study focusing on the redesigning and redefining uniforms in women's sports - specifically WNBA uniforms.
Byam is determined to turn her award winning case study into a reality. During her last semester of college Byam has designed a women’s basketball uniform to accommodate the female body, rather than forcing women to adapt to a basketball uniform that has traditionally been modeled after a male pattern. She believes uniforms are a crucial component to game play. How athletes feel, look, move, and play in their uniforms can determine their performance. Which is why Byam is determined to design something that speaks to the female player- shying away from traditional prototypes that generally accommodate mens shaping and sizing.
“They are [her uniforms] introducing new meaning by putting women first. These uniforms need no adjustments to be flattering on female bodies”, said Byam.
During the design process, Byam spent time taking notes while attending Roosevelt Women’s Basketball games. She would analyze each player’s mobility and comfortability in their respective uniforms. Byam would log each time a player had to re-adjust their jersey, re-tie or roll their shorts, or just play with their uniform in general. After documenting this data, Byam selected one of the Roosevelt players to work one-on- one with for the uniform design. The player she chose was senior Grace Beyer.
Byam used the measurements of Beyer’s pre-existing uniform and practice jerseys, recorded them, and then took new measurements of Beyer to compare. Beyer’s measurements are the dimensions in which the uniform prototype would be made to fit and function.
Byam’s evolving concept speaks to the expanding visibility in women’s sports. She is developing a design structure, soon to be standard, that women–in all sports–should feel comfortable, confident and unlimited in their uniforms.
By working with Beyer, Byam created something that not only addressed Beyer’s needs on the court, but also spoke to the fashion community as a whole. Showcasing that fashion isn’t only about appearance;but also rooted in functionality and inclusivity. An understanding that is lacking in women’s athletics.
