Inspired by the rich symbolism of fencing, derived from ancient sword battles, I found myself delving into the archetype of duels, particularly those revolving around women, as exemplified in tales like Tristan and Isolde. Their narrative, steeped in forbidden love and tragic sacrifice, shed light on a recurring motif: the passive role often assigned to women in battles for their affections. This prompted a journey through love stories from diverse cultures, including the Persian epic of Shirin and Farhad, where societal constraints and sorrowful conclusions underscored the power dynamics inherent in romantic sagas. During my research, I stumbled upon the legend of Gord Afarid, a formidable warrior from Persian mythology celebrated for her valor and strategic acumen. Her tale of bravery and defiance against insurmountable odds deeply resonated with me, laying the foundation for the central theme of my project: the empowerment of women as architects of their own fates. This exploration served as a stark contrast to the traditional symbolism associated with the fencing jacket, conventionally viewed as a safeguard against harm. My intention is to challenge this notion, portraying women not merely as passive recipients of protection, but as proactive agents capable of asserting themselves and instigating change. In my quest to redefine this narrative, I turned to the history of Joan of Arc, a figure renowned for her courage and conviction in the face of adversity. Despite being labeled as mad or even debated as to whether she was a messenger or a devil, Joan of Arc epitomized the spirit of a warrior, steadfastly fighting for her beliefs. Her story exemplifies the complexities and challenges faced by women who dare to defy societal norms, yet also serves as a beacon of hope and inspiration for those who strive to carve their own paths. Through my project, I aim to shift the focus towards women’s autonomy and agency, highlighting their capacity to shape their own lives and destinies, just as Joan of Arc did centuries ago. In line with my aim to challenge conventional perceptions, I’m incorporating light, almost sheer fabrics into my designs, utilizing stripes to suggest the contours of armor. This deliberate choice symbolizes the confidence and self-assuredness of women, who, unlike their traditionally depicted counterparts, do not require protection but rather exude prowess and allure through their skills. As the second fabric, which were sheer and very fluid, came into play, I transformed the design by incorporating three different colors of fabric, reminiscent of 12th-century Persian armor. Additionally, I layered the fabrics with a Western dress style, eschewing traditional strips in favor of a gathering method and varying shapes of flaring, all seamlessly attached to the garment with a single stitching line. By reimagining the visual language associated with armor, I seek to reinforce the notion of women as capable and empowered individuals, capable of commanding attention through their abilities rather than relying on defensive measures.