The much-beloved icon of Singapore, Vanda Miss Joaquim orchid flower, embodies Singapore’s strengths and character through our diversity, and served as an inspiration for the National Dress for Miss Singapore in 2022.

Seeing this national symbol in a new light, the artist imagined the islands of Singapore composed of the five-fold petals of an orchid draping the upper torso of Miss Singapore. By using computation to grow organic, vein-like structures, these petals form a high-rising collar as well as gracefully outstretched wings, all sensually enveloping the body in a lightweight, white 3D printed lattice. Ultimately, the 5 petals unite to compose the unmistakable silhouette of the islands of Singapore.

The Orchid Fascinator perched on Miss Singapore Carissa Yap is also 3D printed. The artist invented a composite making process that allowed the material to be sculpted freely by hand and maintaining their resulting shape. This allowed the contestant to easily shape by hand the petals on both fascinator and dress to best accentuate her silhouette.

This dress was showcased at the 71st Miss Universe Pageant costume segment in New Orleans, Louisiana, USA, on 14th  January 2023.