"WE ARE WOMAN"

This series explores female empowerment and vulnerability in the face of what modern day sexism looks like. In my day-to-day, I’m often confronted by men’s (and occasionally women’s) comments and glances, which suddenly make me aware that I’m a woman with womanly parts. The garments, which I have created, reinforce this sensation.

In spite of this objectification, I strived to demonstrate women just being the dynamic and complex individuals they are. This group, who all graciously volunteered their time for the project, encompass so many things in their lives: professionals, students, mothers, creatives, adventures and beyond. I asked each to emote what being a woman means to her and how it makes her feel. This photo shoot documents her response.

I think an important part of feminism, which is often misunderstood, is aspect of choice. It can mean being nurturing, and also seductive. Emotional, while other times stoic. Feminism can be many of these things, and it also can be none of them. This series culminates in a final image of everyone together, in support of each other, owning their space, being direct with their gaze, and standing proud to be “Woman.” There is nothing that cannot be accomplished when we stand together, use our voices, help each other and be proud of who we are. We are Woman.

Photographer: Molly Van Kley / @mvk_photo
Art Direction and Styling: Kristine Rodriguez of Declarative
Wardrobe: Declarative
Models (in order of series): Astrid Von Winter @sirenethereal, Azia Gutierrez, Kristine Rodriguez,
Rebecca Sibley, Jeannine Steinkuhl @jeannineraes, Natasha Carter, Emerald Phoenyx
MUAs: Elizabeth Pearson @littyzee.artistry, Joansie Rose @joansierosemua
Hair: Christine Malcom

Thank you to the beautiful, creative souls listed above, who volunteered their talents and time towards making this project come to life. And a special thank you to the women, who modeled in this series, dared to be vulnerable, and inspired me to do the same. xKristine

To get a behind-the-scenes look at the making of this project, read more here. 

Interested in owning one of our Nip Slip pieces? They are available upon request.