McCullough has earned great acclaim for her austere yet ethereal metal dresses. Grafted of steel and embellished with flourishes of wire mesh, screening, cut-outs, and bits of found objects such as old gasoline cans, McCullough’s dresses are at once both elegant and imposing. McCullough’s inspiration for these works arose from contemplating the dichotomy between the perception of women as fragile, delicate creatures, and the reality that most women are defined by resiliency and steely resolve. With the taut juxtaposition of extremes such as lightness and gravity, suppleness and intransigence, McCullough’s dresses eloquently convey her feminine sensibilities.

“Fashion is well known as a reliable reflection of cultural trends and historical events. On a personal level, it has become my creative vehicle for exploring the mysteries of life.

My inspiration arose from contemplating the dichotomy between the perception of women as fragile, delicate creatures, and the reality that most women are defined by resiliency and steely resolve. I employ a juxtaposition of extremes such as lightness and gravity, suppleness and intransigence, to convey feminine sensibilities.

Crafted of steel and embellished with flourishes of wire mesh, screening, cut-outs, and bits of found objects, the dresses are at once both elegant and imposing. I like the duplicitous nature of steel which can be manipulated to appear feminine and soft while actually maintaining its strength and rigidity—an expression in contrasts and complements.” – Donna McCullough