JUANA

Category: Apparel

Juana is a collection that tells the story of my mother’s migration from Peru to the U.S. at 19. Through all-white garments made of natural and repurposed textiles, the project explores memory, displacement, and identity through light, shadow, and texture. Each look is a reflection of resilience and the emotional imprint of the immigrant experience, designed to honor both personal and collective histories. Sustainability is embedded in every layer, from fabric choice to minimal waste pattern-making and long-term garment value. This look, crafted from Supima Cotton and cotton cord, draws from the poncho silhouette as a symbol of cultural identity and protection. The exaggerated sculptural volume explores themes of migration, resilience, referencing my mother's journey. For this specific design, Supima cotton was used due to its exceptional quality, strength, and luster. The choice also reflects a commitment to ethical sourcing and traceability, as Supima is grown under strict environmental and labor standards. Cotton’s ability to take on structure as well as fluidity allowed the garment to express both form and narrative, grounding the design in natural beauty while honoring the craftsmanship of sustainable fashion.