Killing Floor

Killing Floor is a project inspired by the Chicago Union Stockyards known as Packingtown - This project serves as a tribute to the workers of the Stockyards from 1865 to the early twentieth century and the horrendous struggles they faced trying to provide for their families, as well as being a reminder of the harm that hyper-industrialism has done to people in our society ever since. From the danger they faced at work to the waste-filled, smoky neighborhoods they lived in.

I materialize this concept with historical workwear references to the era, utilizing additional protective layering, animal skin fabrics, all with durability, mobility and function in mind. I use this menswear collection as a reminder of these workers and their importance in Chicago history.