Backlund’s sculptural forms, although built around the body and therefore often mimicking its innate profile, frequently have a three-dimensional quality that suggests their ability to hold their shape even off the body. Like body armor, their inherent structural capacity is developed to mold to the body. “I approach fashion more like a sculptor than a tailor. My clothes are often quite sculptural with strong silhouettes, but I also put a lot of time into the finish and fit,” Backlund said. As the dynamic form of this dress demonstrates, her process lends itself to building up shapes and creating a landscape of forms.

_{Sandra Backlund. Hand-Knitted Dress, from the collection In No Time, Spring/Summer 2008. Courtesy of Sandra Backlund.}