Corrugated Connections
(Winner of the Avant Garde Prize)
This unique dress was created for the Trash to Trend 2014 fashion show, an annual fundraiser organized by the non-profit organization Keep Orlando Beautiful in Orlando, FL. Constructed entirely from recyclable materials, it draws inspiration from the distinctive fashion of the 18th century. This era is emblematic of its notable features, such as voluminous hips, uncomfortable corsets, and extravagant wigs. Through its design, the dress explores the gender roles and patriarchal society prevalent during that time, shedding light on the enduring influence that echoes into modernity. It underscores the enduring disparity between men's and women's attire, with women still subjected to uncomfortable garments, shoes, and elaborate hairstyles, while men's fashion has remained relatively unchanged throughout the centuries. By utilizing recyclable trash as the primary medium, the dress also serves as a poignant reminder of our consumption habits and the environmental impact of our actions. Furthermore, it aims to highlight the significant influence of women as potential buyers, as statistics show that consumer attention is often directed toward them. The dress's creation from recyclable materials, including cardboard, brown paper bags, and brown protective paper typically used for shipments, aims to capture attention and initiate a dialogue about the consumption patterns that disproportionately affect women and the urgent need to address pollution and waste in our society.