Trashy Clothing - The ‘Anti-Luxury’ Palestinian Fashion Brand
Many fashion brands attempt to distance themselves from societal issues as a way of being able to focus on the collection. Each collection provides a glimpse into a particular moment in time, often referencing niche themes that transport viewers to different perspectives. However, some brands cannot afford such luxury. Their primary objective is to set a precedent, to remind people of the challenges faced in the light of modern capitalism, offering a window into the harsh realities of those in need. One such brand that accomplishes this is Trashy Clothing.
Trashy Clothing is a ready-to-wear Palestinian fashion label, primarily known for its satirical efforts to bridge the gap between fashion and politics. Roberto Filippello, a writer exploring Trashy Clothing, explains, "The label’s goal is to address difficult political circumstances by conveying design statements of anti-colonial resistance." He further adds, "In the face of the ongoing occupation by Israel, joy is weaponized through fashionable humor to actively resist colonial attempts at erasure." Led by co-founders Omar Braika and Shukri Lawrence, the brand produces meticulously crafted collections that delve into various socio-political climates, using fashion as a medium to showcase global perspectives.
Trashy Clothing has released several collections to date, with their latest being SS23 'Desert Delights.' Their collection website elaborates that this collection centers around eroticism, orientalism, and awakenings, drawing inspiration from Joseph Massad's 'Desiring Arabs.' It pays homage to Arab sexuality, incorporating iconic references from Arab pop culture and blending them with contemporary Arab sex symbols. As part of their exploration of this theme, they have collaborated with the well-known brand 'Tom of Finland Foundation,' featuring five pieces inspired by Tom's homoerotic art as a tribute to the protection, preservation, documentation, and education of the public about erotic art and artists.
One striking example of their work is the 'Tom of Finland x TC Mdagdag Top.' It features a slightly mesh brown top adorned with the Tom of Finland Mdagdag print, integrating various symbols into the design, akin to a graffiti-like collage with motifs from both brands. Its mesh fabric, made from stretch tulle, drapes on the wearer, accentuating their broadness and hinting at its inherent eroticism with its longer sleeve design. Another noteworthy piece is the 'Tom of Finland x TC Abu Nuwas Trousers,' a mid-rise black pleather trouser with a detachable belt that loops at the waistband. Contrast stitching complements the wearer's silhouette, accentuating the curves on the inside of the trouser, which falls straight to the floor, covering the shoe.
In times of conflict, it becomes crucial to celebrate and acknowledge design innovators. Brands like Trashy Clothing do not merely present clothing; they showcase aesthetic value, expanding consumers' minds through satirical representations of fashion. The fashion industry has always been inherently political, representing times and communities as a tangible reminder of its context. Given the enduring conflict in Palestine, it is essential that consumers engage intentionally, providing those who deserve it with greater influence across all storytelling industries.
You can view their entire collection by clicking on this link, alternatively, if you would like to see our other articles on Trashy Clothing, like their collaboration with GmbH, click here.