Growing up, I never saw anyone wearing a hanbok outside of the Korean holidays, OR professional Asian female soccer players in Canada, for that matter. So when I got word that
@afc.toronto was looking to do an Asian Heritage Month shoot celebrating
@samantha.chang @hellopickett and
@kaehansen representing their Korean and Filipino heritage, I said to myself… how could I NOT be a part of this?
My approach to styling this shoot was to treat each heritage look with the respect it deserves while also showing that traditional clothing can live effortlessly in a modern, high-fashion context.
I bridged the gap between culture and fashion through accessories, giving each look an editorial edge. I sourced one-of-a-kind pieces and styled them in unexpected ways, incorporating a vintage brooch, statement earrings, and a silk fringe scarf worn as a belt, while always keeping the gowns as the focal point.
For Sam, Kaela, and Victoria, it was their first time wearing garments from their own cultures. Seeing them in awe of the designs and craftsmanship, and watching them step into the role as goddesses, was exactly what I envisioned for each of them. I wanted them to feel empowered and proud of their heritage and to take up space as Asian athletes.
The hanbok was designed by
@maxine_toronto who hand-sews each dress here in Toronto. Thank you so much for allowing me to showcase your gorgeous work.
And the Terno was generously loaned by my amazing friend
@notoriouslilkim
I am beyond proud and moved to have been part of this powerful female-led shoot.
Thank you
@gloromy for your vision, and thank you to the entire team! Females, football, and flowers… it truly was a dream assignment!
Asian Heritage Game is on May 10th at BMO Field, see you there!
The crew:
Players:
@samantha.chang ,
@kaehansen ,
@hellopickett
Creative Direction:
@gloromy
Photographer:
@nabrabadr
Photographer Assistant:
@sebaleb
Wardrobe:
@stylingwithjenn
Hair & Makeup:
@mylamartistry
Florals:
@wardastudios
#asianheritagemonth #fashionstylist #photoshoot #koreanhanbok #terno