“The aim of this project was to design experimental and ready-to-wear garments. These garments portray the 150-year history and theme of "Excellence" in Kansas State Fashion Studies. 

27% of the undergraduate college students at Kansas State University are first-generation students, what was it like in 1863 when 100% of the 52 college students were first-gen? What did it look like then and what does it look like now? I wanted to make my designs exemplify the strength of the first generation, but also acknowledge the doubt that can come from being a first-gen.  "Resourcefulness" is used throughout my project. I was able to collect garments from first-gen students and turn them into stuffing. This "stuffing" represents the idea of having a lot of weight on your shoulders. My jacket fabric was hard to work with, but it ended up creating some brilliant gathers that I later replicated into my second look. This project was explorative and meaningful. I am happy that we spent time understanding the reason behind our projects. It takes perseverance to be a first-generation student. It takes vulnerability to be a first-generation student. Most first-generation students are not going to college for themselves but to, in some way, also help others. It's stepping out of your own culture to immerse yourself in a foreign way of living and making a foundation for yourself. That is excellence, taking a step of faith to pursue a meaningful life that will benefit yourself and others.”

— Kaylee Bynum

Models: Ivana Maodus and Jillian Harris ︱ Photographer: Jonas Herrera