Discovery of Self
As the world becomes digitized, identity is more important than ever. Who we are online is now the defining factor of who we are in person. With every move recorded, it is hard to be at peace with ourselves. The world seems to move faster by the second, making us feel like we are running out of time. However, it is time we take a pause and appreciate the now.
The conglomeration of identities we phase through from day to day create an internal scramble as information from our surroundings guide the way we present ourselves. Social role disruptions create a disconnect from the true self. This disruption of who we are feeds into how we feel about our own authenticity. “A Portrait of You” brings the control back to the consumer, accepting a new sense of self and reconciling who we are now and who we want to become.
The Story
Why now?
During the throes of the pandemic, physical decluttering rose, and this need to declutter will transition from people’s physical spaces to their personal lives. Consumers have had the opportunity to contemplate their identity and values in life. Disruption to routines, isolation from loved ones, and conflation of home and work life gave rise to prioritizing wellbeing and meaningful connections and experiences, while increasing sensitivity to our environment.
The act of growing up with two distinct cultures generates a greater qualm as it is a constant balancing act of creating the perfect performance. Too much of one identity can cause ridicule from either side, being an exhaustive process. This leads to a newfound need for comfort, uniqueness, and language of expression, driving clothing as a tool for navigating the ever evolving lives and surroundings people encounter. Through the reflection of my own personal experiences, “A Portrait of You” touches on the delicate nature of this situation to remind ourselves who we are, bringing in the most important aspects of a sense of self.