Cross-cultural Influence: Modern Hmoob Fashion
It has officially been one year since the conception of this collection. The collection was long overdue for some photos that would do it justice. I was so glad when Pang Khang Photography reached out to me for a collaboration.
When designing this collection I wanted to create pieces that would offer versatility in both casual and formal wear. However, little did I know the difficulty I would face in developing these prototypes due to the technicalities of the designs. I spent long nights that turned into weeks in the studio trying to get every seam just right. Some nights after hours and hours of adjusting, I had no idea where I went wrong and would have to go back to the drawing board.
Looking at it with fresh eyes during this shoot I can say that it’s one of my favorite projects to date, despite the headaches it caused. This was more than designing clothes. This was a reflection of who I am and who I’ve become.
This is for all my Hmoob sisters who aren’t appreciated enough, who continually strive to be their own definition of a good Hmoob woman. It’s time we stop allowing others to speak for us. We are here and we will create and share our own narratives.
This collection has created a basis for who I want to be as a fashion designer. My roots will never escape me. Therefore, I’ll choose to embrace them, creating for those who look like me. I’ll continue to tell our stories through fashion as the Hmoob women before us have done.