Elise V.

Inspiration

When I learned about the Stuck At Prom scholarship, I thought it was a fantastic way to dive into my creativity as well as represent my heritage. Being half Japanese and half Mexican, I have been given one of the greatest gifts of learning and experiencing different cultures. I was lucky enough to experience traditions with the Mexican side of my family, but I have not been able to do the same with my Japanese relatives. Since my grandparents in Japan haven’t been doing well, I thought it would be a good idea to make a dress inspired by Japanese culture. Kimonos, long straight seamed garments, are a symbol of Japanese culture. Many Kimonos include common symbols or motifs that each represent an important meaning, some of which I included in my own piece. A Kimono is clearly not one’s typical prom dress, but with the sense of identity represented through this garment, why go teenage typical when you can go Japanese traditional?