Fashion in Ruins
Freelance
Fashion in Ruins is a project close to my heart. It’s all about questioning why we’re so obsessed with fashion—especially fast fashion—while so many bigger issues are staring us in the face. I wanted to create a series of images that make people stop and think: “Why are we pouring so much energy into trends when the world is literally falling apart around us?”
By placing high fashion looks in abandoned, derelict spaces, I wanted to highlight the contrast between the polished, curated world of fashion and the gritty, overlooked realities of our surroundings. The crumbling walls and forgotten corners are a stark reminder of what’s neglected while we focus on the surface-level shine of trends.
This series isn’t about pointing fingers; it’s about starting a conversation. Fashion in Ruins asks, “What really matters?” and encourages us all to take a step back, reflect on our priorities, and think about the impact of our choices.
For my final university exhibition, I presented Fashion in Ruins in a way that brought its message to life. The display featured large-scale prints of the photographs mounted on simple wooden frames, creating a raw, unpolished look that echoed the abandoned locations featured in the project.
At the heart of the exhibit was a bold statement painted on cardboard: “Why do we care about fashion when the world is falling apart?” This provocative question, prominently displayed, immediately engaged viewers and set the tone for the entire series. Beneath the cardboard statement, discarded clothing and textiles were scattered, symbolising the waste and excess generated by fast fashion and tying the visuals to its physical consequences.
This exhibition format emphasized the project's core message by combining striking visuals with tactile, symbolic elements. The use of cardboard, recycled materials, and minimal framing reinforced the themes of neglect and sustainability while encouraging viewers to reflect on their own consumption habits and priorities. This setup created an immersive, impactful experience, sparking discussion and introspection among the audience.
