2023 Gourmet Fashion / Solo Show

Expectations of a Fool is an exploration of the relationship with the self through a visual representation of emotional phases of self-love, as experienced by the designer. Utilizing the theme of clowns to represent the humbling feelings of foolishness and embarrassment often felt when reflecting on the actions and expectations of past selves.

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Each phase is named as though it were the title of an individual to personify the emotional stages and self-relationship. The phases explored are non-sequential, and occur for varying periods. As these phases are observations from the designer’s experience, some phases involve aspects of mental health struggles such as anxiety and depression. All expressions in this series represent a dynamic and evolving self-relationship.

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Naive: Ignorance of self-worth

Lover: Self-appreciation & acceptance of flaws

Narcissist: Inflated sense of importance & pride