Sakura Mary-Beth McCrystal

As a person of mixed cultural background, I am very passionate about my eastern and western heritage and believe that cultural representation through fashion is very important as it allows us to share personal stories. Shibaraku is a collection that adds a new twist to traditional Japanese garments through the influence of art by Edo period artist Utagawa Kuniyoshi and the extravagant costumes from kabuki theatre. In this exploration, I merge elements of Japanese and western garment archetypes to develop new and interesting silhouettes which take on the powerful shapes of traditional Japanese costume. I aspire for these garments to be a tool for people to use to feel empowered.