What When Where Why Wear
I’m not really talking about the what, when, where, why and how. What I’m really talking about is the philosophy behind my work. When I look through a piece of garment, I ponder these questions and realize the piece of garment is not just a piece of garment anymore. What am I looking at? I am looking at the fabric, fiber, materials, labor, distribution channels, ideas, technique, construction, traditions (although it is not a traditional dress, every clothing has been influenced by traditions), history rather than just a piece of garment. Additionally, it contains the special characteristics and/or stories associated with the owner of the garment. The when and where are following my thoughts. When was it made or where was it worn by a person or vice versa. A dress is a product of a long and complicated process continuing from antiquity to the immediate present. Not only have human beings evolved but also dresses. Dresses have evolved as a result of lifestyle changes, historical incidents and environmental changes. Why do we dress then? The Polish Anthropologist Bronislaw Malinowski answered this question. People dress for protection, modesty and decoration. I would like to add one more reason. We dress, and we remember who we are. Although Malinowski’s view was protection from outside physical dangers, I believe that a dress protects one’s root and identity. We wear, and we protect ourselves and communicate with others. I love fashion no matter what; but I have reasons why I love fashion. It is because a dress is a very significant component for us. I hope more people admit that clothing is not “just” clothing. It is comprehensive intermediation rather than just utilitarian. When it becomes a fashion, it represents time and space we live in. The complicated relationship between time, space, people and fashion inspire and compel me to design. I like Da Vinci because he had accurate eyes and I like Picasso because he was able to see things differently. When a dress was made it requires accurate eyes and unique vision. Therefore, I love to use a tailoring technique, creative construction, or deconstruction on my design. I aspire for my beliefs to be expressed in my design and deliver the meanings to people throughout beautiful clothing.
