Ode to Used Clothing

Each piece on a thrift store rack is a different brand, decade, or taste. While searching through endless rows and possibilities, we find styles that represent who we are and discover new parts of who we are becoming. Ode to Used Clothing was inspired by the impact of capitalism on the fashion industry and how fast fashion is adding to the consequences of climate change. As media contributes heavily to consumerism, fashion photography plays a critical role in encouraging us to buy trendy clothing. While many brands use bright and flashy images to make new clothing appear desirable, this project uses this style to suggest that authenticity is not something that can be bought- it must be discovered.

I owe much of this project to the people photographed, who brought their distinct styles and corresponding voices to this idea, and to the mentors that guided it throughout. Thank you.