I couldn't resist a fashion challenge. This is Léoty: Plus Ultra, my entry for the FLORA x Contra Met Museum Challenge, built around two objects that had no business sharing a room: an 1891 silk corset by Maison Léoty (Costume Institute), and a gilt engraved wheellock pistol created in 1540 for Emperor Charles V (Arms and Armor).

Both are engineering the same thing, a body's power, just three and a half centuries apart and for very different audiences. One privately. One on a dynasty's behalf.

For 2026, I revived the original maker's name as a working atelier, and let the pistol's engraving, its Pillars of Hercules, its motto PLUS ULTRA, migrate onto the corset's boning, hardware, and embroidery. Full collection, runway film, and technical detail sheets in the case study.

Built entirely on @FLORA. Explore full project here.