This was my collection for The Fashion Production Association’s 2025 fashion show at OSU. The theme of this show was stories. I chose to create a collection taking inspiration from one of my favorite children’s books, The Velveteen Rabbit.
My music choice for the fashion show this year! This is exciting, music is so important to me and I really wanted to select a song that reflected the collection well and with a good beat for my models to walk to.
The Velveteen rabbit -
I am inspired by the story of The Velveteen Rabbit, where becoming “real” only happens after a toy has been used and loved for a long time. The signs of use on garments we wear and love tell the story of our personal experience with the piece, making it more valuable to us. Using high quality materials and thoughtful construction makes this possible.
In this year’s collection, my goal was to create with a focus on longevity and comfort. I used extra strong seams, sustainable fashion principles, natural cottons and linens, and mending techniques like Sashiko and darning stitching.
With the rise of overconsumption and mass production in the fashion industry, many have forgotten what makes clothing special. The story of The Velveteen Rabbit reminds us that care and experience are what make things truly meaningful. The value we place on clothes shouldn’t be connected to a price tag or brand name.
Percy Jackson Mannino working very hard as my sewing buddy. He’s the one doing the sleeping for the both of us.
