‘Unveiled‘ - A world beyond the binary
What started off as a conversation about color theory and the trajectory of pink and blue in 2019, turned into something we didn’t expect. Over the next few weeks we expanded on so many ideas and ended up creating a bunch of experiments exploring the intersection of Dance & Fashion. How can we express our multicultural identities and gender expression in different ways. Our goal for 'UNVEILED' was to use our art to create something that has the potential to inspire, educate, unite, and maybe even heal. Welcome to a world in which we explore the fluidity of cultural and gender identity through movement, fashion, and expression.
Creative Directors: Amit Patel & Sonam Naidu
Stylist: Sonam Naidu
Photographer: Ryan Jerome
Make Up: Neha Kapil
Jewelry: Namaslay Designs
Ode To indian Mythology
India’s deep-rooted history with gender fluid expression lies in its mythology and origin stories. Drawing inspiration from gods like Krishna & Shiva, we highlighted attributes (long hair, statement jewelry, and expression beyond the confines of gender) embodying the duality of the male and female identity.
Marigold Dreams
In this reality, we welcome you to a new age, in which we can freely express our individuality. A reality where the burden of expression was not based on the perception of others but solely of your own creativity. Marigolds are commonly used in Indian ceremonies and it's vibrancy radiates, especially in weddings. For me combining these elements from traditional customs, fashion, and dance gave me the strength and courage to exist in a way I didn't think possible.
Stylist: Sonam Naidu
Photographer: Ryan Jerome
Make Up: Neha Kapil
Dress: Shop Kynah
Accessories + Jewelry: Namaslay Designs, Sitate by Aasha
Bindi: Indian Goddess Boutique
Stylist: Sonam Naidu
Photographer: Ryan Jerome
Make Up: Neha Kapil
Henna: Neha Assar
Hoody: Mae Co
Jewelry: Sitare by Aasha
Cultural Evolution
Henna is a commonly adopted practice all over the world, creating a global culture around this art form. By re-imagining these ancient ceremonies, we allow these traditions to live on and be shared in a contemporary way. Through the world of social media, cultural exchange is rapid, inspiring individuals globally to re-invent this art form. One approach to the globalization of henna and dances is that it can be shared and appreciated across cultures, creating bridges instead of walls.
Gender FLuidity
Inspired by Ardhanarishvara: the union of the male and female. The earliest mention of this form is in 100 CE, of the gods Shiva & Parvati. This form is also danced about a lot in Bharatanatyam and other South Asian forms of dance. With this look we experimented with traditionally masculine and feminine silhouettes and had some creative fun! This entire process of researching more about the history of gender neutral clothing and expression in India and the U.S was enlightening. In recent times, androgynous fashion and drag culture have greatly influenced this generation’s ability to embrace their degrees of duality.
Stylist: Sonam Naidu
Photographer: Ryan Jerome
Make Up: Neha Kapil
Blazer + Lehenga: Harleen Kaur
Jewelry: Namaslay Designs
Stylist: Sonam Naidu
Photographer: Ryan Jerome
Make Up: Neha Kapil
Henna: Neha Assar
Pants: Mae Co
Jewelry: Sitare by Aasha
The Modern WEdding
The Male Bride and Female Groom, a concept that we created to show a traditional wedding that is inclusive in the context of an evolving world. With this look we hope to push the narrative of how we can change the trajectory of what Indian weddings can look like. By removing the rigid parameters and gender roles during weddings, we take a step further towards a more inclusive experience for the LGBTQ+ community and beyond. From the help of small businesses in India, Canada, and the U.S.A we conceived these sustainable looks to create an empowering fusion yet traditional wedding aesthetic. #MaleBride #FemaleGroom
Rebel with a cause
With the intent to challenge the status quo and create a new normal, we use our art, our voices and our fashion choices. We take PRIDE in wearing heels, wigs, makeup and eccentric outfits to feel a version of ourselves that we are conditioned to censor and repress. This look is a tribute to the rebels who championed the lgbtq+ rights movement across the globe. To the unsung heroes who taught us how to embrace the rebel within us so we have the courage to face our demons and live our truth. A vision for a world in which we are not only tolerated, but embraced, accepted, celebrated.
Be Bold, Be Loud, Be Heard, Be You.
Stylist: Sonam Naidu
Photographer: Ryan Jerome
Make Up: Neha Kapil
Jacket: Agni Style
Jewelry: Sitare by Aasha
Stylist: Sonam Naidu
Photographer: Ryan Jerome
Make Up: Neha Kapil
Lehenga: Harleen Kaur
Hairclips + Bangles: Namaslay Designs
The sPectrum
This was the first inspiration in this series. Exploring the notion of how color bias effects our trajectory, we can unlearn and reframe how we express ourselves. Pink and Blue, is the basis for so many at the start of a young age, but who would you be if you could create a world of your own imagination? With this look why try and steer away from the archaic constructs of masculinity and femininity, and their association to gender and gender expression.
The future is fluid, and the future is now.
