By: Gracie Wallner, Writing Editor
Our title for Issue No. 2, “Layer on Layer” has a double meaning. It describes both the featured outfits and the layers of identity that belong to the people it represents. Layering is a technique utilized by many style types, but particularly by streetwear. Jackets, scarves, coats, belts, chains; these accessories are crucial to the historical rise and modern definition of streetwear. However, in a colloquial context, the word “layer” is also used describe an aspect of someone’s identity. In that sense, the layers of clothing in the issue represent the layers of identity that each person has. Although none of us share the exact same composition of layers, we can all relate to each other by realizing that we are all more complex than we appear. Each model gave in depth answers on how they believe the layers of their outfits relates to their layers of personality and identity.
“The idea of layering closely correlates to the intersection of my identity. I do not only identify as one with but rather an abundance of identities that come together to make up who I am. The layers of clothing reveals the fact that identity/personality is deeper than surface level,” said model Tobi Alawode.
Model and ALT Fashion Team Member Fernando Umanzor felt a similar connection between the clothes and personal identity.
“I was wearing several layers of clothing of different material. The variation in textures and material mirrors the diversity that I like to surround myself in, whether that is the type of people, cultures, and settings,” he said.
Model Nicole Ki explained how the variations of layers and textures in the outfits she wore during the shoot reflected the layers of identities she holds.
“I wore two outfits in the shoot, one professional but edgy and the other casual but chic. I think the contrast in the outfits represents how I’m exploring different sides of myself and my potential during college,” she said. “Coming to a Predominantly White Institution, I learned about what being Chinese American and being a womxn meant to me and how to work in both business and casual settings.”
The models also spoke about the difficulties and rewards that the variety of our layers provides.
“Coming from the East coast and being in Madison is difficult in channeling the layers that make my identity. Here, people are not use to being surrounded by diversity and many students isolate themselves in niches made up of what they are familiar with because they're afraid of branching out of their comfort zones,” said Fernando Umanzor.
“For a while, I struggled with my dual identity as both Chinese and American,” said Nicole Ki. “But I’ve come to learn that I don’t have to prove that I’m Chinese enough or American enough because that’s inherently central to my identity. I’ve learned to be unapologetic.”
According to Tobi Alawode, it is “important to engage and be educated in other identities but to go about that with an open mind.”
ALT model Hasan Kaya says he appreciates layers in people, and believes it’s important for others to do the same.
“I believe what is most fascinating is that we all have deep layers,” he said. “Yet we usually don’t notice past the top layer, and can miss out on personal expression people may have concealed beneath.”
While viewing the layers of these model’s outfits, also recognize the complex layers that create their identities and personalities, and perhaps think more deeply about your own.
