This project challenged us to design and construct a Victorian jacket with a built-in corset inspired by a wild animal. I drew from the whale shark, captivated by its grace despite its immense size and the constellation-like pattern across its body. To achieve this effect, I hand-painted yards of chambray, translating the organic spotting into a textile surface.I refined the silhouette by modifying the original pattern, transforming traditional mutton chop sleeves into exaggerated bell sleeves. This allowed me to reference 1860s Victorian pagoda jackets through the dramatic sleeve shape, structured bodice, and use of tasseled trim. This trim serves a dual purpose, along with the pin tucks create strong vertical movement, echoing the whale shark’s gill structures. Through these elements, the piece merges historical silhouette with natural inspiration, resulting in a design that feels both period-rooted and fluidly organic.