Welcome to "Ascend"

“Ascend” was created to convey an impactful message through fashion.  Inspiration was drawn from the lotus flower, which is a symbol of hope, purity, rebirth, and transformation.  Even though it grows underwater in a muddy environment, the flower maintains its strength as it pushes through the dirty obstacles and frees itself from the harsh life conditions below.  When the lotus flower reaches the surface of the water, it has risen from the depths and blooms in the open air.  I want my designs to display this metaphor and emphasize that “just like the lotus, we too have the ability to rise from the mud, bloom out of the darkness and radiate into the world”. The symbolism of the lotus flower is powerful because it provides hope and strength to people who are struggling in their everyday lives. It illustrates that no matter what you are going through, you are able to overcome whatever is holding you back and find happiness. In this collection, I strived to replicate the story of the lotus flower by designing each look to appear as if the flower is blooming, starting with a darker and less vibrant look that progresses to a bolder, more voluminous garment.