an exploration into fashion behind a character,
banda man
Starting in january 2023 as “untitled” I always wanted to explore the idea of wraps and bandanas covering the face in fashion.
It allows them to be both the ACCESSORY and the character, fully customizable.
I have a massive collection of bandanas and have found so many ways to style them.
Through this series, I'm exploring my love for bandanas and wraps through the lens of Banda Man, an unapologetically experimental editorial photo series. The goal is to utilize my never-ending collection of bandanas to experiment with different photo techniques, angles, and motions.
This character manifested from my childhood, when I first learned that a simple fashion accessory has an affiliation with gangs. I often grew up hearing, "You shouldn't wear that bandana," or "Don't wear that color, or someone might think you're in a gang. A piece of clothing became a visible marker for potential danger.
My vision is to shift the narrative around bandanas while considering their historical context.
Therefore, the title was born.
BANDA MAN OR BANDA FOR SHORT.
Banda has multiple meanings, but I want to highlight the Spanish definition: a group of people, a gang, or a sash (La Banda).
Although it is a feminine noun, I am emphasizing the fluidity of the word within this project. This project aims to maintain a fluid perspective surrounding bandanas
Thank you and I hope you enjoy the project :)