The Power of Social Capital in Fashion
In the vibrant heart of Berlin, amidst the creative energy of July 2023, an extraordinary exhibition unfolded at Platte Berlin. As part of my university course exploring the thought-provoking concept of ‘Status Wo’, I embarked on a journey that would challenge conventional notions of fashion creation, accessibility, and social standing. The result? A collection aptly named “Social Capital” that stands as a testament to the power of community and creativity.
The Spark of Inspiration
The genesis of this project was rooted in a simple yet profound question: What could I create using only the resources available within my social circle, without spending a penny? This query led me down a path of discovery, revealing the incredible potential that lies in our connections and relationships.
A Tapestry of Generosity
The collection came to life through a beautiful tapestry of contributions:
- A local shop donated fabric to me that had become largely unsaleable due to water damage. This enabled me to salvage the still intact parts of the fabric and give them a new purpose.
- Yarns and tailor’s chalk found new purpose, donated by fellow students who no longer needed them.
- Models and helpers joined the project, driven by enthusiasm and a shared vision.
Each element of the collection was a thread in this intricate web of social capital, proving that fashion can indeed be a collaborative art form.
Questioning the “Status wo”
The name “Status wo” is a clever play on words that opens up a crucial dialogue. It prompts us to question: Where do we stand in the social hierarchy? What ‘level’ or ‘class’ do we occupy in society? This concept goes beyond the static nature of “status quo” and challenges us to reflect on our place in the social fabric.
Through this project, I aimed to demonstrate that fashion isn’t bound by financial constraints or social status. Instead, it can flourish through community, friendship, and shared passion, regardless of where one stands on the social ladder.
While I acknowledge the privilege of my education and the network it has provided, the project underscores a universal truth: it’s not just about having a network, but about how we engage with and nurture our connections, no matter our starting point.
A Night of Celebration and Gratitude
The culmination of our efforts was a vibrant exhibition at Platte, where each designer had the opportunity to showcase their creations. For my part, I prepared a small performance featuring two incredible models, Finja Loechtermann and Julian Keller, who brought my designs to life.
But the exhibition was more than just a showcase – it was a celebration of collaboration that transcended social boundaries:
- Paul Klasmeier and I co-designed a 3D-printed bracelet, merging technology with fashion.
- Lili Gehrmann´s expertise in knitting helped transform my vision for a sweater into a tangible, wearable piece of art.
During the performance, I made a conscious decision to break from tradition. Instead of solely highlighting models, photographers and designers as is often the norm in fashion, I wanted to illuminate the contributions of every single person involved in bringing this collection to life. From the person who donated a spool of thread to the one who offered words of encouragement, each role, no matter how small it might seem, was crucial to our success.
I prepared small notes detailing each contributor’s name and specific role, ensuring that every helping hand was acknowledged and celebrated. This approach aimed to challenge the typical hierarchy in fashion events and demonstrate that every contribution, regardless of its perceived importance, is valuable in the creative process.
Capturing the Moment
The energy of the exhibition was beautifully captured by videographer Halil Ercüment Cayir and a photographer friend, Maren Nordtrop Larsen, preserving the essence of the night and the spirit of our collective achievement across various social strata.
Reflections on Social Capital and Status
This project has been a profound reminder of the wealth that exists in our relationships and communities, regardless of traditional notions of status. It challenges us to rethink our approach to fashion and creation:
How can we leverage our social networks, at any level, to create sustainable, innovative fashion? In what ways can the fashion industry become more inclusive and community-driven, breaking down social barriers? How might the concept of ‘social capital’ reshape our understanding of value and status in fashion?
As we move forward in the world of sustainable fashion, let’s not forget the immense potential that lies in our connections, no matter where we find ourselves in the social landscape. After all, the most valuable currency in fashion might just be the relationships we nurture and the communities we build, transcending traditional notions of status.
