“The purpose of this project is to explore and learn different technical skills required in jean construction. Through this project, we were exposed to design development, planning for fabric & trims, size configuration, and fitting samples. We had the freedom to explore different fabrics and were encouraged to add extra elements to our jeans to continue developing our design aesthetic. For my design process, I focused on perfecting the technical aspects of the jeans and then in the end, including an aesthetic design element. I decided to add paint on the sides of the jeans to portray my artistic design skills. The jeans were a very great project to refine my technical skills as well as push me creatively. My jeans project represents the theme for 2022 because I feel as if this program has made me feel empowered. The elements of this project (the lighting strikes running down the side seams) physically do represent empowerment and excellence. But more than my actual jeans, I feel as if being able to have access to education to be able to refine my skills and make me confident as a designer are very empowering takeaways from this project.”

— Kaylee Bynum

Model: Xia Hunter ︱ Photographer: Shreepad Joglekar