Jess Reyes Jimenez “influenced by my multicultural background”
1. Tell me a bit about your brand?
I am a designer influenced by my multicultural background. Having been raised in the U.S.A and Mexico; with a Peruvian father and Mexican mother has allowed me to create a new narrative that is my own while also tied to my history and diverse background. It is the fusion of these cultures, reflections of displacement and detachment, and my identity as a Peruvian Mexican American that influences my designs.
From these experiences form the silhouettes, fabric manipulation techniques, textiles, and systems of dressing. Which ties in my appreciation for clothing made carefully and thoughtfully. I find quality in craftsmanship and its embedment in modern design. The garments grant the wearer a romantic presence for ever-evolving women that are continually finding themselves. They embrace creativity and the desire to move throughout the world with graceful fluidity and power.
2. What’s the story behind this collection? Who/ what inspired it?
For his collection, I was particularly drawn by the garments used for theatrical performances within the district of the Conchucos, Peru where there is a visible fusion of indigenous and Spanish culture. I collected images that were taken by a friend of my father throughout his career as a photographer. The photos give light to centuries of history and tradition which have inspired me and have allowed me to reflect on my identity, as I encounter feelings of detachment from being torn between multiple places with not one to call ‘home’.
I incorporated various fabric manipulation techniques that embody the many textures of the ornamental wear and layering on the theatrical costumes. The textures created by the fabric manipulation on the raw silk fabrics inform the shape as they wrap and layer around the body. Silk dupioni and silk faille were used for their ability to hold structure and soft shine quality, chiffon and silk linen blends were incorporated to contrast the stiffness and add a romantic feel.
3. What role do you think social media plays in fashion today?
I think that social media in fashion plays an important role in that brands can highlight their own unique voice and connect with those that can relate to that voice. It is also changing the way consumers buy fashion. By being able to instantly save a product that you like while scrolling or having the option to visit the shopping site in one tap has definitely made it a simpler process.
4. Way to reach the showcase of fashion designers?
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