Reclamation, BFA Pre-Fall 2019/20

Reclamation for Pre-Fall 2019/20 is a seven-look collection done for my Bachelor of Fine Arts degree. This collection is about rebelling against society’s need to categorize one another. It breaks free from others’ assumptions, expectations, and judgements. Reclamation is about owning who you are on your own terms.

In this collection, I am reclaiming my Vietnamese-American identity. Constantly having had to toe the line between cultures has made me very aware of the expectations and boundaries found in both societies. Through this collection, I want to encourage others to forge identities that are based upon their own ideas and standards.

As a Vietnamese-American collection, Reclamation takes inspiration from both Western and Vietnamese contemporary womenswear designers. The fabrication and coloration used in this collection only add to its rebellious and insubordinate attitude. The machine embroidery, as well as the addition of the custom lining, also help to tell the story of Reclamation, by weaving personal messages throughout the garments.