Textile and Fashion Design
Ana Piplica
Playground Armor

Project
The collection "Underground Armor" was created within the course Fashion Design 6A at the Faculty of Textile Technology in Zagreb, under the mentorship of Prof. Art. Paulina Jazvić. The starting point of the research is based on authentic childhood photographs, featuring toys such as a rubber duck in a bathtub, plush toys in bed, dolls scattered across the floor, and building blocks on the grass.
The work conceptually reflects on the impact of play during early development and the way these same objects and memories acquire a new role through growing up, transforming into an emotional shield and armor in adulthood. Through sculptural forms, the collection visualizes this internal defense mechanism using specific materials and garments: a coat made of crocheted colorful plush toys, a jacket and skirt made of white rubber ducks, a metal dress featuring doll shoes, and a dress adorned with flowers made of building blocks.
Year
2026
Mentors and collaborators
Paulina Jazvić, Full Professor (mentor)
Kristina Vrdoljak (photography)
Gea Korać (model)
Institution
University of Zagreb, Faculty of Textile Technology
Author
Ana Piplica is a graduate fashion design student at the Faculty of Textile Technology, University of Zagreb. In her work, she uses fashion as a medium for exploring personal narratives. Themes and inspiration stem from fragments of childhood, from memories of specific people and games to formative events and traumas.
Her works are characterised by pronounced sculpturality, the use of unconventional materials, and vibrant colours. To date, her work has been presented at nine group exhibitions, two solo exhibitions, and two fashion shows.



