DESK RESEARCH
“An individual can “prove” their authenticity in several different ways. They can do this through “badges” or some sort of cultural artifact (clothes, hairstyles, name, mannerisms, etc), associations with people, and knowledge of the culture.”
In my research, I focused on the practice of proving legitimacy within the “traditional” racial/ethnic community. This act of proving or performing your identity through physical objects is common for many multiracial individuals. These artifacts can be joyous and sentimental pieces that help an individual to better identify and feel more connected to their culture.
However, this collection of artifacts can become disheartening when it is a means of gaining acceptance. Authentification is rarely granted and the individual is left feeling inadequate, frustrated, and othered rather than celebratory of their different cultures.
INTERVIEWS
Each individual that was interviewed had their own unique steps in developing their self identity. The common thread found was the use of a cultural artifact to help define identity. It could be a unique hairstyle or a middle name. Whatever the badge may be, it is a crucial item in developing and/or expressing an identity.
Additionally, each individual did express the feeling of otherness and noted that their existence is an aberration or challenge to the structure.
IDENTITY
Coming from a Texas family of European immigrants and a Korean family from the bustling city of Seoul, my unique identity and heritage served as the inspiration behind Only.
I drew from the faint but fond memory of my birthplace, El Paso. Florida orange groves and California poppies. Photographs from my parent’s wedding and the Hanbok my mom wore that day. Tales of a typical Texas family with horse farms and football. The strong scent of kimchi. A tiny glass jar of Tiger Balm prescribed by my dad for all aches and pains. Old TV Land reruns playing in the morning. And always a familiar shade of celadon green tangled throughout.
THE BRAND
When you’re “only half” it’s tough finding a space or outlet to express your identity. Growing up, I was constantly searching for ways to perform my own unique identity. I would collect cultural artifacts—a wooden bracelet from Korea or little Celadon figurines I would keep on my bedside table. Tangible connections to my heritage, these were cherished objects that reaffirmed my Korean identity but they never quite felt enough. I longed for an outlet to express my identity in a seamless and contiguous way rather than a series of disjointed pieces.
Drawing from my own Korean and Texan heritage, Only. is a fashion brand with a multiracial perspective and mission. This first collection centers around the Jeogori, the upper garment of the traditional Korean Hanbok. Utilizing classic Western fashion elements, I bring the Jeogori into the modern age while still holding true to my own identity. The brand will continue to celebrate both Korean and Western culture with innovative and transformative garments and designs.
AKNOWLEDGEMENTS