The Modern Immigrant

As a young girl, deciding what to wear was as much about blending in, as it was about self expression. When my family immigrated to Canada, we survived on a few dollars a day. My clothes were hand sewn pieces from scrap fabrics available in the sale bin at FabricLand. My mother selected a blend of bright colours and prints that reminded her of home, and I paired these garments with my “American” treasured basics.

I believe that fashion has the power to change our perspectives on what is considered beautiful, to encourage understanding, and to bring the human race closer together. As a young girl and first generation immigrant, I was often the victim of bullying at school, simply for dressing differently. Once ashamed of my “tacky” clothes as a child, today I am rediscovering the beauty of designs that are inspired from my heritage.

My intension with this story is a start to what I hope will become a broader series of personal work, where I reflect on my journey for identity and self love.