LOS BRACEROS
SPRING
2026
LOS BRACEROS
2026 SENIOR THESIS COLLECTION.
2026 SENIOR THESIS COLLECTION.
DESCRIPTION:
Los Braceros is a collection that explores the resilience of Mexican American identity, drawing from my experience growing up Mexican in America. Inspired by field workers of the Bracero Program (1942–1964), I reimagine their workwear silhouettes through a contemporary Chicano lens. Integrating tattoo placement and cultural textiles, the collection expresses cultural and generational strength. My research reflects the exploitation and hardship these workers endured, alongside their lasting community impact. I use jersey, denim, and twill to bridge past and present, and printed jerseys for layered tattoo effects, overdyed denim for dimensional color, and modern twill used in workwear. This fusion of materials and references transforms historical garments into expressions of heritage, identity, and resilience.
Los Braceros is a collection that explores the resilience of Mexican American identity, drawing from my experience growing up Mexican in America. Inspired by field workers of the Bracero Program (1942–1964), I reimagine their workwear silhouettes through a contemporary Chicano lens. Integrating tattoo placement and cultural textiles, the collection expresses cultural and generational strength. My research reflects the exploitation and hardship these workers endured, alongside their lasting community impact. I use jersey, denim, and twill to bridge past and present, and printed jerseys for layered tattoo effects, overdyed denim for dimensional color, and modern twill used in workwear. This fusion of materials and references transforms historical garments into expressions of heritage, identity, and resilience.