Sandy Chen’s thesis collection BUGTOPIA explores the intersection of fashion and entomology, using insect anatomy and life cycles as the foundation for a deeply conceptual body of work. Drawing on elements like cocoons, exoskeletons, and shells, Chen uses leather wet molding, vegetable tanning, and 3D printing to create wearable forms that merge human and insect characteristics. The result is a series of sculptural garments that push beyond traditional silhouettes and material conventions.
Developed at Parsons School of Design, BUGTOPIA reflects on themes of transformation, vulnerability, and resilience, imagining a future shaped by the adaptability and strange elegance of nature’s smallest survivors.
Designer
@sandychenshandi
Photographer
@stephen0918.photo
Lighting
@fzhc_q @jenny.shi
@_junwei
Model
@chrissy_remy &
@kyraeatonblevins
HMUA
@badboyrory
Set Design
@cameronirish @sandychenshandi @inykciv 
