The story of identity in trial, betrayal, and acceptance. Designs for queer panic and nostalgia.
Eclectic ABduction: Sophomore Studies in Storytelling
After working with my Overgrown collection in 2023, photographer Milan Lazovski contacted me with a proposal for a larger project;
Creating a short film that documents my process as I designed my new collection entitled Eclectic Abduction for the VIM 2024 fashion show.
FEATURE DOCUMENTARY
The documentary explores the triumphs, struggles, and creative vision it takes to work in the world of fashion with Michigan State University.
My lense as a queer designer is also highlighted to showcase the unique perspective my experience has offered and how I use my work to share that with others
The feminine, perfected, and restrained. The piece is created with deadstock and vintage fabric to reference the vintage aesthetics associated with the Housewife archetype.
The Housewife
Our narrative begins with the un-touched ideal of cisgender American beauty. She will follow the path that is destined for her, demanding her time, dignity, and self.
When a woman ‘loses’ her femininity it is treated as a tragic event. A short haircut, affinity for sports, or even a loud personality is treated as an abandonment of self. Leaving a woman seen as Martyr to herself.
Our protagonist begins to be exposed to the freedom and expression of queer identity
The Martyr
When I came across a bolt of hot pink rib knit fabric at the thrift store, I was struck by the color and the thick comfort of the tension in it’s weave. It’s application as a catsuit completely covers the body yet the sharp hip bones and figure of the model are still displayed.
The Darkness
The accompanying scarf acts as the ‘threat’ of homosexuality. Fear of queerness is not new, in recent years however, the demonization of transgender people has caused significant harm to a group of people seeking the same happiness as everyone else.
The threat suffocation executed only by the wearer.
While so much of queer identity comes with shame and fear, one of the best parts of discovering identity is the joy of community. This piece highlights this sense of togetherness by incorporating a variety of textures and secondhand trims.
The Brightness
Created using plastic thermal fuse beads, The Angel celebrates the authenticity and nostalgia of viewing the past in a new lense following self discovery. I frequently spent childhood confused about why I seemed different from my peers. Being able to look back at moments I felt isolated and being able to relive them in a new light has brought me a lot of joy
