American Red Cross' Southwestern NJ chapter teamed up with Rowan College at Burlington County to create original handbags by Fashion Design and Merchandising students to be donated to the 2016 "Power of the Purse" charity event. Out of 40 students, 15 handbags were chosen for auction, benefiting local disaster relief funds. Students had to submit an inspiration board, design, and execute their handbag inspired by various American Red Cross Disaster Relief themes.
With this inspiration, I chose to not only focus on the idea of relief but also the idea of hope that American Red Cross has given to amazing amounts of people. I also was inspired by the American Red Cross' logo graphic quality, and featured it in my design, wanting to create a contrasting juxtaposition between the jarring red color and geometric lines with the pure color of white and fluid flower petals, representing growth and rebirth. Since I did not know how to sew at the time, I had to use unconventional materials, and chose a kids' first aid kit, befitting the theme at almost an ironic level. With all of these elements, I titled by design "Hope & Relief" and was one of 15 students chosen for the event. I am honored to have participated in such an event, and to have had my handbag go to the home of a generous patron.
