Behind the Look
This look serves as a commentary on the fragmented state of American society and its evolving relationship with technology. The denim strips symbolize the cultural and ideological divisions—left vs. right, rich vs. poor—that characterize our national landscape. Yet amid this fragmentation, the use of sashiko, a traditional Japanese embroidery technique used to reinforce and repair fabric, introduces a message of resilience and unity. Here, sashiko is rendered using repurposed computer wiring, suggesting that technology—often blamed for deepening divides—can also be a powerful tool for connection and healing. An example would be the support Gaza and Palestine is receiving from the global community, much of it galvanized and sustained through digital platforms. The tote bag brings human dimension to this concept, embodying the fractured yet still living spirit of our society.
The vest acts as a call to action: to reimagine technology not only as a creative force but also as a source of responsibility. Made from e-waste, it challenges viewers to consider the environmental impact of our digital age. A phoenix, crafted from discarded CDs rises from the darkness, representing rebirth, transformation, and the possibility of a second life.