The collection titled, “Travieso” was showcased at the Civic Center Studios in the raw side Downtown Los Angeles in 2019. This collection’s roots were heavily influenced by the the 1940’s Bracero Program and the Zoot Suit Riots of East Los Angeles. Significant pieces in the collection featured extinguished matches sewn on back yokes, hand braided rope, and corn husks. Moments spent roaming the local streets of East Los Angeles, I draw inspiration from the history of Mexican American youth, the complex Chicano lifestyle, the beauty of street culture, and community. With intentions to empower, the collection balances modern and traditional roots of the Zoot Suit Riots as I present baggy pleated high waisted trousers inspired by “Zoot Suiters”. Luxurious gaberdine button up shirts are screen printed with tattoo inspired hand sketches of Elotes, Pan Dulce and Switch Blades. Cultural details, like extinguished matches, cigarettes, and Mexican currency are displayed behind clear vinyl and sewn onto selected garments such as bomber jackets made of lightweight wools and the new “Bracero Slit Jackets”. Beyond the semiotics of a troublemaker, this collection celebrates East Los Angeles Diaspora.

All garments were hand patterned and self constructed by Rene Camarilo