Cranes, But Make It Fashion

Designer Olivia Cheng, the creative mind behind the brand “Dauphinette,” has reimagined a custom dress for this year’s CranesForOurFuture fashion initiative. The dress, crafted from origami cranes, symbolizes hope and peace universally.

What is the Crane Dress Made Of?

“The crane dress is constructed from around 300 very small paper cranes, which are quilted between recycled vinyl,” Olivia explains. “Interestingly, there’s no fabric in the dress. Originally, this dress was part of my summer 2022 collection, which was centered around the crane. We had a hallway adorned with 4,000 cranes strung onto garlands. When your team approached us, I thought it was perfect timing since I had always wanted to create another version of this dress. I made some changes from the original, and this one turned out even better!”

The Symbolism of the Paper Crane

“For me, the crane has a lighthearted meaning because it reminds me of childhood and playfulness,” Olivia shares. “As an Asian American child, you experience different cultures and sometimes feel confused about your own. My crane collection reflected this whimsical and playful nature—almost saccharine.

“On a larger cultural scale, the crane is a symbol of continuity in Japanese culture. The story of Sadako and the thousand cranes is beautiful and highlights the evolving significance of this ancient art form. It raises awareness about the role of children in massive conflicts and wars happening now. The crane is a nostalgic object that many people can relate to.”

Journey into Fashion and Design

“It was the only thing I was ever truly and deeply interested in,” Olivia says. “Growing up now feels very pre-professional with constant pressure to decide on a career. In the Midwest, within a Chinese family, pursuing fashion wasn’t exactly encouraged. But I wanted to see if I could make a living doing something I love.

“I started my company at 19 while in college. My thought was, if I fail, I’m just a student. I booked a trip to Paris during my first winter break without a plan. Walking around Paris, I conceived the idea of building a brand of upcycled outerwear, marketed like a luxury fashion brand. Seven years later, that’s what I’m doing.

“My design ethos revolves around making the most of what we have. I preserve ephemeral materials like plants, dried food, and animal byproducts, applying couture-like precision to everyday objects.”

Joining the CranesForOurFuture Campaign

“When approached about this project, I had just listened to a podcast with Annie Jacobson discussing her book, ‘Nuclear War: A Scenario,’ which portrays a stifling and existential view of doomsday. This collaboration felt organic,” Olivia recalls.

“Everyone, regardless of their platform, identity, or age, wonders what they can do. This project is something my team and I can contribute to. It’s an incredible opportunity to support a narrative about world peace and encourage unity across diverse groups.”

Envisioning a World Without Nuclear Weapons

“A world without nuclear weapons represents a type of beauty none of us have experienced in our lifetimes,” Olivia reflects. “People will always find ways to disagree and create conflict. However, we live in a world where life can be profoundly affected by tangible objects like nuclear weapons. Despite the reduction in nuclear arms, the risk remains significant.

“It would be wonderful to have a world where, even with the knowledge to make nuclear weapons, countries choose not to. They would practice multinational discipline, recognizing our shared humanity.”