Wearable Art: The Growing Fashion Movement
What is wearable art?
Wearable art is a term that is used to describe jewellery, accessories and costumes that are individually designed and handmade by artists who are masters at their craft, as an expression of their artistic style. Wearable art is not a new concept, in fact, the first notable wearable art movements can be traced back to the early 20th century, and it’s finding a broader audience in modern times as growing public awareness and desire towards sustainability draw more people to seeking independent brands that advocate slow fashion.
Sustainable fashion isn’t the only reason why wearable art is growing in popularity today. Fashion has become dictated and dominated by global monopolistic corporations both in the luxury/designer segment and in the fast fashion segment. Consumers are bombarded by mass media advertising and driven to making seemingly ‘free’ choices which curiously leads to most people making the ‘same’ choice. A prime example below:
Who is wearable art for?
For many people, fashion is more than just chasing a trend or wearing a logo, it’s a way of expressing themselves. Conscious consumers, especially within creative communities, are finding it increasingly difficult to differentiate their looks in a world where centralised mass design often results in a mundane, uniform way of dressing. There is a growing amount of respect for the individuals who either create their own garments and accessories, or support those who do, by using and sharing their designs.
Wearable art is for individuals who don’t want to conform, who want to stand out.
Wearable art may have been perceived as “what artists wear“ to most people. However, it’s making its way into the daily lives of many individuals who are seeking freedom from ordinariness and looking for a way to express their individuality.
Where to find wearable art?
Wearable art can be hard to reach and requires research to be found as many independent designers keep their focus on carefully creating and crafting their designs and may often neglect their marketing. If you are looking for wearable art pieces, your best chance is to visit arts & cratfs markets, which may not be possible due to the physical distance (ie. might require you to travel long distances), or visit wearable art shows, but that often comes with a hefty entrance fee. There aren’t many shops that specialise in unique wearable art products and give local designers a platform to grow, and that’s why we are launching Buenas Vibras.
At Buenas Vibras, we work with independent designers and entrepreneurs who are not afraid to break away from the mainstream with unconventional ideas and creations. All of the wearable art pieces that we feature are one-of-a-kind designs and they are locally handcrafted in the artists’ workshops.
We are carefully selecting unique pieces and featuring them in our limited collections. Our first collection ‘GENESIS’ features 13 pieces from Las Jaras Studio, a Mexican jewellery brand owned by a duo of nomad DJs who are also the creative minds behind their unique festival sunglasses designs. We invite you to explore their creations that will inspire your outfits and find your own voice.
Browse our collections. Join the movement. Express your style.
