Fashion From Debris

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.