After the success of the first edition of the “Death by Denim” fashion show last year, designer and founder of Junk Approved, Janace Walker, decided to bring back the show for a second round. On Oct. 10, designers, models, press and audience will all be united at Concordia Cemetery to watch the “Rebirth edition” of the show.
The concept of a fashion show in a cemetery might seem unusual to some but the community welcomed the artistic concept. The event’s popularity led to its return this year, with tickets selling out after they went on sale June 1.
While Walker kept the challenge for herself and six other designers to design looks made of at least 90% denim, her artistic vision for the show this time around would be different.
“There’s going to be different phases, from childhood, to adolescence, all the way to adulthood, then death and finally to rebirth,” Walker said. “Each designer’s collection is going to symbolize what that part of life is to them.”
Walker’s choice to feature denim gave the material a new meaning of flesh, representing how humans have the ability to grow and change while keeping their essence.
“Denim can be upcycled and recycled into anything. Nine times out of 10 we have a favorite pair of jeans, and they can tear and grow with us,” Walker said. “We can think these are old things now, but they can be renewed and regenerated and still be our favorite thing.”
Using denim to create something out of the usual also served as a representation of the Junk Approved style. As an artist, Walker describes herself as “avant-garde” and “abstract.”
“I like to design costumes more than everyday wear. I am really into over-the-top designs, which is a difference here in El Paso.” Walker said.
Walker is originally from North Carolina and has found inspiration in her new home of El Paso and its Hispanic culture, so much so that one of the main inspirations of the show was Día de Los Muertos.
“I lost my dad and death was really pungent, it was a very dark thing,” Walker said, “When I came here to El Paso, I encountered Dia de Los Muertos. It was something that wasn’t part of my culture, but I respected it and loved it. I thought it was beautiful, even the little kids were excited about celebrating their loved ones. I just felt very much like it was something I wanted to adopt forever.”
Walker also took inspiration from fashion designers like Thierry Mugler and Alexander McQueen, both known for blending high fashion with theatrical, imaginative runways. The story that Walker hopes to tell with this season’s looks is one full of mystery and nostalgia.
When creating each look, Walker chose to dress the models in clothes that highlighted their favorite features. Incorporating elements like patchwork and colors to match each model’s personality.
“I try to not do the same thing for every model, especially for this show because I want to represent souls,” Walker said. “We’re all different, we’re all unique. So, every look is going to be different than the one before.”
While the fashion show kept the same name, the second edition is all about life, change and rebirth.
“I want the audience to experience living in the moment.” Walker said.
Walker shared that the planning of a third edition is in the works and will have a celestial and cosmic theme.
For now, Walker’s and other designers’ work will be on full display with the upcoming show as they continue to celebrate life in its own artistic way showing that from endings come new beginnings.
Vivien G. Noe C, is a Staff Reporter, at The Prospector and can be reached at [email protected]
