Natural disasters and forces such as Hurricane Ike are proving a rich resource for unusual inspired fashion.
But before the Hurricane Gustav pants and the recent disaster-inspired Lorick spring 2009 collection showcase, fine arts photography student Candice Kenmuir was inspired by Hurricane Wilma that hit South Florida for her senior class exhibition project.
Kenmuir created four fashion pieces from debris she collected after the hurricanes.
“After the hurricane ... there was just garbage everywhere,” said Kenmuir. “I figured why not use this surplus debris. I wanted to make something (where people) would say ‘Oh,wow.’”
One of the pieces, “Foliage Evening Gown,” was created with hundreds of dead brown leaves, duct tape and glue. While a ballerina-like dress was the result of tying together the broken remnants of a storm-blown wooden fence and jagged splinters.
Why This Trend Is Growing
- Disaster-inspired Fashion
- Fashion designers are finding inspiration in natural disasters and using debris to create unique pieces.
- Sustainability Through Upcycling
- Using debris from natural disasters for fashion creates a sustainable practice by upcycling waste materials.
- Eclectic Materials in Fashion
- Designers are using non-traditional materials, like debris from natural disasters, to create eclectic fashion pieces.
Industries Being Reshaped
- Fashion Industry
- The fashion industry can embrace the use of upcycled materials, including debris from natural disasters, to create unique sustainable pieces.
- Art Industry
- Artists and photographers can use debris from natural disasters for inspiration and to create works of art.
- Environmental Sustainability Industry
- Companies that focus on environmental sustainability can partner with fashion designers to promote sustainable practices through the use of upcycled materials, like debris from natural disasters.
