2026 | Professional

MUSE Design Awards Silver Winner

The Pinch

Entrant

Shuonan Chen

Category

Fashion Design - Jewelry

Client's Name

-

Country / Region

United States

Gallery

About The Entry

This is a wearable piece that reflects my personal experience with mood disorders during puberty. It represents a time of emotional struggle caused by hormonal changes, social expectations, and academic pressure. I often felt overwhelmed and disconnected, but I found comfort and healing in flowers, which became a symbol of quiet strength for me.

The piece is a spine-shaped necklace formed with floral elements. The spine represents my inner self, while the flower stands for resilience and growth. I exaggerated the flower by merging the bud with the shape of a uterus, creating a deeper connection with nature and femininity. This blending reflects the biological changes of puberty and honours the natural power of the female body.

Wearing the piece, I found the sharp edges once pinched my skin, mirroring the hardships I faced during puberty. But instead of avoiding the discomfort, I chose to embrace it, to turn it into a reminder of what I overcame.

Credits

designer
Shuonan Chen
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