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The inspiration for adornos comes from my everyday practices, such as embellishing my hair and other forms of dress. A showcase of different experiences of being first generation, Mexican-American in New York City, and the process of finding myself through adornment. This collection represents both cultures and the in-between through materiality. Textiles that have been woven, braided, dyed, and embroidered.
Exploring the Three Strand Braid
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Experiment using materials that resemble hair. Materials include wool roving, synthetic hair, and yarns.
The braid in the center is a representation of the in-between.
Combining ribbon as a representation of Mexico and nameplate jewelry, symbolism for New York City
Branching off from braids, I began to create textiles that resembled them. I first started with weaving, then crocheted and knitted while
incorporating techniques I would use to adorn my hair. I “adorned” the textiles with trims such as ribbon, wool roving, bows, and more. I later used denim to explore the juxtaposition of the softness I associate with Mexico with the grittiness of New York City
The tacking technique I used originated from wanting to use embroidery, which my grandma and aunts often used to create elaborate handkerchiefs, blankets, and more. After experimenting with embroidery, I began to
explore ways to incorporate it with dyeing. This led me to experiment with smocking. After a few tests, I created a swatch that allowed me to preserve certain parts of the original fabric while manipulating the rest.
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Experiments
Testing different weights, stretches, and colors to achieve the desired look.
Silhouettes, Influence, & Inspiration
The Tiered Skirt
The tiered skirt was inspired by the silhouette of traditional huipil skirts and dresses. The top portion is woven, referencing traditional textile techniques, while the rest of the skirt is made from the denim that has been tacked, washed, and redyed. Ties along the sides nod to the practice of braiding hair, incorporating an interactive element through the act of tying bows.
The Bow Top & Charro Pleated Skirt
Like The Tiered Skirt, the bow top includes references to hair, with overlapping embroidery that mimics strands of hair and ties at the back. The embroidery is also inspired by traditional charro suits, which are typically worn by mariachis during celebrations. The charro pleated skirt draws on this same celebratory spirit, blending it with influences from New York City's underground nightlife. Its silhouette is based on a classic mini skirt, embellished with ornate buttons, embroidery, and pleats reminiscent of charro attire.
The Bow Dress
The idea for the Bow Dress was inspired by the mandil, a garment traditionally worn for utility, cooking, chores, and other domestic tasks. I wanted to subvert its typical simplicity by reimagining it as something ornate and elaborate. The lines of the dress represent strands of hair being unraveled or braided, forming a base that is then embellished with lace ribbon, beads, and synthetic hair.
