Chai Life
Chai Life was inspired by two images common in Judaica, the tree of life (also found in many religions and myths) and chai, which is not only the Hebrew word for life, but a symbol that stands on its own. In addition to peace and happiness, the tree of life signifies growth and longevity. Representations of the tree of life are featured frequently in Jewish art and architecture.
The strapless dress features a digitally printed design of the tree of life and chais that match across seams. Leaf clusters were hand-stitched to the bodice of the dress to create texture and dimensionality. Seven types of trim were hand-sewn to represent branches and roots, extending below the hem, stretching towards the earth and swinging to create movement.
The 97 leaf clusters on the bodice were made up of more than 300 individual leaves of four different fabrics. An additional 21 hand-knit leaves were hand-sewn to the bodice. In Hebrew, letters represent their numerical equivalents according to their place in the alphabet, and chai, comprised of the letters chet and yud, equals 18. The number 18 multiplied by itself is 324, the number of leaves added to the surface of Chai Life, to further reflect the design’s inspiration.
Chai Life was featured in the International Textiles and Apparel Association Live Gallery Design Exhibition.
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