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Capsoul

CAPSOUL is an exploration of sustainable fashion and personal expression in the age of overconsumption. Anchored by the concept of the capsule wardrobe—a curated collection of versatile garments—this Capstone project delves into its potential to reshape the fashion landscape. By intertwining theoretical discourse, empirical analysis, and creative expression, CAPSOUL seeks to illuminate the intersection of sustainability, personal style, and emotional resonance within contemporary fashion culture.

Guided by the inquiry—How does the capsule wardrobe contribute to sustainability, personal style, and overall well-being amidst rampant overconsumption?—CAPSOUL embarks on a multifaceted exploration. It delves into theoretical foundations, analyzing the ecological impact, stylistic evolution, and emotional connection inherent in capsule wardrobes. Through alternative photography methods, CAPSOUL captures the essence of sustainable style, inviting viewers to reflect on the transformative power of intentional consumption and personal expression.

In essence, CAPSOUL offers a nuanced perspective on the role of the capsule wardrobe in fostering sustainable fashion practices and individual identity. Through its interdisciplinary approach, it aims to inspire a deeper appreciation for mindful consumption, personal style, and the enduring allure of a thoughtfully curated wardrobe.

3 Key Concepts of Exploration

  1. SUSTAINABILITY: In my capstone project, I delve into the concept of sustainability in the fashion industry. This key concept revolves around the idea that fashion should not be disposable, and I emphasize the need for eco-friendly practices, from clothing production to consumption. By exploring alternative photography methods, I aim to highlight how sustainable fashion extends beyond clothing choices, encompassing the creative processes and visual representations within the industry

  2. ALTERNATIVE PHOTOGRAPHY METHODS AND NOSTALGIA: utilization of alternative photography methods to evoke nostalgia and emotional connections in fashion imagery. I believe that photography can serve as a powerful tool to evoke sentimentality and highlight the timeless qualities of fashion. Through my artistic storytelling, I aim to convey the transformative journey of sustainable consumption fashion and its connection to sentimentality. This concept underscores my role as a bridge between sustainable fashion and visual arts, inspiring others to make mindful choices through my creative work.

  3. CAPSULE WARDROBE: One of the central concepts I explore is the notion of capsule wardrobes. I investigate the benefits of owning fewer clothing items, focusing on creating a versatile, curated collection that aligns with one's personal style. By utilizing alternative photography techniques, I visually capture the essence of capsule wardrobes, emphasizing their limited yet adaptable nature. This concept is integral to my research, as it promotes more mindful and sustainable fashion choices.

Process

To build a body of work that felt personal and grounded, I conducted casual interview sessions with friends and peers. I asked them to bring a clothing item that felt deeply personal—a piece they had kept for years, or one that carried a memory or emotional story. These conversations shaped my visuals, offering a deeper understanding of why we hold onto certain garments.

Inspired by the idea of accessibility and DIY spirit, I turned my own bathroom into a temporary darkroom for two days. I sourced my materials independently, ordering traditional chemicals while also incorporating household items to keep the process practical and approachable for others. My goal was to show that sustainable and meaningful creation can be achieved even within limited spaces and resources.

The photo development involved four key alternative processes:

  • Van Dyke Brown Printing: Produced matte images with soft brown hues, creating a warm, historical atmosphere that felt intimate and timeless.

  • Albumen Printing: Used egg whites to bind light-sensitive chemicals, resulting in glossy, softly toned images with vintage texture and depth.

  • Polaroid Lift Emulsions: Inspired by Andy Warhol’s spontaneous still-life Polaroids. I was drawn to the immediacy and vulnerability of the process. The emulsion lifts revealed unpredictable textures, raw edges, and emotional resonance, mirroring the project’s themes of memory and imperfection.

  • Cyanotype: Created deep blue-toned images using a light-sensitive solution of iron salts. The process’s minimal chemical waste and water-based development made it an environmentally conscious choice, while the dreamlike blue hues added a poetic, archival quality that aligned with the project's themes of sentimentality and timelessness.

Evi: Albumen Printing 

Ciarra:

Van Dyke

Haley: Cyanotype

Max: Polaroid

Visual Direction & Catalogue

The final photographs were compiled into a printed catalogue that acts as a visual narrative of CAPSOUL. Drawing inspiration from an heirloom poem book passed down through my family, I designed the catalogue with the intention that it would age beautifully over time—just like our favourite clothing.

Although I had hoped to receive my printed copy in time for the Capstone presentation, it arrived the evening before. As a result, I wasn’t able to present it physically during the final review. However, I have included high-quality scans and documentation of the printed version in my portfolio submission, ensuring the full vision of the project is still communicated.

Through this physical object, I emphasize the tangible, sentimental value of fashion and its documentation. The catalogue is designed not just to showcase the images, but to be interacted with, held, and eventually worn-in—mirroring the enduring relationship we form with clothing that truly means something.

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