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Rachael Mueller

Massey University

Kia ora! I was born and raised in Aotearoa New Zealand and am currently studying at Massey University’s College of Creative Arts in Wellington, majoring in fashion design. I'm in my postgraduate honours year, working towards my final year collection. Fashion has become my creative outlet, a space where I can express myself, respond to the world around me, and feel both challenged and at home. After exploring photography, textiles, spatial design, and even science during my studies, I found my place in the world of fashion. I’m passionate about pushing creative boundaries in environmentally conscious ways, and this mindset is something I hope to carry with me into the fashion industry. In the future, I hope to work alongside like-minded creatives who challenge and inspire me and my work. My experience so far includes freelance pattern making and sewing, assisting with styling for local brands and musicians, and working as a costume runner for TV. I also completed a month-long internship with Kowtow, one of New Zealand’s leading sustainable fashion brands.

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The Chamber of Shards

Category: Accessories

Competitions: Fashion Competition 2025

The Chamber of Shards is an accessory piece, a bag, that captures the raw, contrasting textures of an ice cave. Inspired by nature’s extremes, it’s crafted entirely from just two mono-materials: 100% hand-spun, undyed New Zealand wool and 100% metal, both found, repurposed and sourced. Its silhouette is derived from the late 18th century miser purse. Every element is designed to be fully reusable or recyclable, embodying a truly circular design. I’m integrating tin-free soldering into the metalwork to add tactile complexity; this solder can be reheated and reused, aligning with the sustainable ethos. The bag explores the tension between softness and rigidity, warmth and cold, echoing the visual and sensory push-pull of an ice cave’s interior. Earthy tones, raw forms, and stark textures come together in harmony to reimagine what an accessory can be. The Chamber of Shard redefines sustainability and texture in fashion, offering a grounded but forward-thinking vision for the future of material design. - Rachael Mueller

In association with Arts Thread

Working with our partners at Arts Thread to develop lifelong learning and career opportunities for students of fashion and design. Our partnership provides the opportunity to compete on a world stage, participate in industry led workshops, set up an outstanding portfolio and gain access to the resources that will kickstart careers in fashion and design.