Fashion Chronicles
For David Jones, fashion is more than just what you wear, it's a powerful way to express who you are, tell a story, and explore history. David, A Senior at Furman University, has found fashion to be his true passion by expressing himself in different ways and connecting with the people around him. Throughout the article we will explore David's inspirations, process, and insights on how fashion can serve as a storytelling tool.
From Hobby to Passion
David Jones’ journey into fashion began during the Covid-19 pandemic. With all the extra time on his hands he said he took up sewing which sparked his connection to the craft of fashion design, “I realized I could spend hours behind a sewing machine because I love to do that.” His first experience truly designing was a costume design for a stage production in his first year at Furman. That’s what really solidified the beginning of his journey in fashion. He emphasizes that “clothes always tell a story” ; his focus is on allowing the story of the clothing to come across naturally. He reads articles and books, watches films, and explores different art and mediums to ensure originality and authenticity in his clothing. David states “It's important to know the rules if you are going to break them, and when you do, it can really make an impact. A corset made from plastic bags instead of coutil disrupts the norm and makes you consider it unexpected.”
David’s design process isn’t always about the aesthetic of clothing alone. He believes that the power of an overall image is in the meaning it conveys, but he also stresses the importance of refining and editing. “Most of my process is about editing what's already there,” he shares. He carefully balances image and narrative so neither overwhelms the other. Reflecting on his own growth he kept the first pair of pants he created. He says although they may be imperfect they are a reminder to him of his progress. All designs in some way are the personal reflections of the designer's experiences and emotions.
(David Jones Sketch of his jacket)
Cultural Inspirations and Historical Considerations
Cultural and historical influences play a significant role in fashion, as well as David's work. For him it's not just about the trends; his favorite style is from the 1970’s, which he says we are seeing the revival of right now! He emphasizes that he has never designed outside his own cultural understanding, ensuring his work remains respectful and authentic.
Fashion is a way for preserving history and identity. Jones recalls a professor’s insight that really stuck with him, “Unwanted things in society are often ignored and thus not mentioned in history. It’s harder to do that with an image, so being seen is essential.” The fabrics, colors, and textures are crucial in creating a story for the design. Jones likes to consider fabric even before sketching a new design, for different materials tell a different story and hold different properties. His design of the paper bag corset told a very impactful yet different story from the norm because of the material he chose.
Overcoming Challenges in Fashion Storytelling
The biggest challenge in storytelling through fashion is maintaining a clear perspective throughout the whole process. Jones admits that he can easily get lost in detail which causes him to struggle with the overall design. If he were to give his advice he states “it's important to go back to my initial feelings about the concept and realign that with my original intent.” The importance of perspective is huge when it comes to storytelling which leads us into the topic of digital media.
The rise of digital media has significantly increased, and a lot of professional artists are worried about that role in physical art. For example Jones is skeptical of the technology's role in evolving fashion for it requires real world interaction to be truly effective. However, Ross McClain, a professor of art and design at Furman University, offers a different perspective. He talks throughout his interview of the importance of opportunities that technology opens up, and although the concern of having a tactile element is overwhelming, the ability to visualize and prototype garments digitally before cutting fabric is a game changer. “The technology does not replace real world experience, it enhances it” says McClain.
(David Jones posing in his hand crafter jacket from the sketch above)
Advice for Aspiring Designers
For the aspiring designers interested in storytelling, expression, or anything else they might want to incorporate into their designs, Jones offers simple yet profound advice: “Read, write, and watch your interests and the people making incredible things and get to making!”
Immersing yourself in stories and constantly creating is the best way to grow as a designer. Fashion is an expressive art form, capable of telling powerful stories through research, material decision, and the design process. For David Jones, every stitch and seam is an opportunity to craft a piece that resonates with both the wearer and the viewer. His journey is proof that fashion isn’t just about looking good, it’s about telling a story that matters.
