"Second Skin" is a collection that celebrates the beauty and diversity of natural bodies, embracing the unique shapes, sizes, colors, and textures that make each individual form one-of-a-kind. Drawing inspiration from the organic intricacies of the human body, this collection redefines traditional standards of beauty by highlighting features often deemed "imperfections"—such as body rolls, stretch marks, scars, and cellulite—transforming them into symbols of strength and individuality.
Crafted from a combination of scrap leather, recycled materials, and yarn generously donated by Italian yarn manufacturers, "Second Skin" blends sustainability with artistry. This project originated during my final year at the Fashion Institute of Technology, coinciding with my two year experience abroad in Milan, Italy. When the global pandemic led to my abrupt evacuation from Milan, I was faced with the challenge of completing my thesis collection from my parents home in Boulder, Colorado, far removed from the resources and environment I had grown accustomed to. This challenge led me to explore new materials and techniques, pushing the boundaries of my creative process.
The collection combines elastic yarn and lightweight wool mohair to create a dynamic "compress and release" effect that mimics the natural folds and contours of the human body. The resulting pieces visually and tactically evoke the organic texture and movement of skin, challenging societal ideals of "perfection" and redefining the concept of beauty by celebrating the body in all its forms. Through "Second Skin", I aim to invite a conversation about inclusivity, body positivity, and the evolving definition of what is truly beautiful.
