Broke by Talia Betham

Massey University

For my project I have chosen to speak to the unemployment within young New Zealanders. I have based my mini collection off of the old working style of clothing back in the 1980-90s when employment rates were at their highest. The contemporary twist on the uniform aesthetic shows the change in motivation and job involvement. The materials I have worked with are recycled wool blankets. I have decided to use wool as I feel as one of our biggest industries we don’t use it enough and this could contribute to a growth in jobs for New Zealanders. As wool blankets were once a necessity in New Zealand homes I have incorporated the quality tags to restore a kiwi classic into the modern art world. I have also used large metal ware to reflect the heaviness and strain of positioning oneself in the social classes in society today. The garments I have made play with reversibility and flexibility; this represents the need for multiple jobs specifically in growing families. A literal take on adjustment is present in the ‘inside out’ aspect of this mini collection. This collection is a small representation of a current situation in New Zealand today. Using fashion design I have explored ideas around the effects the unemployment can have on young New Zealanders.

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