The Path of soul
This project was inspired by the documentary Paths of the Soul, which follows a group of Tibetan villagers on a pilgrimage to the sacred Mount Kailash. Their journey, marked by perseverance and hardship, reminded me of the pilgrims I once saw in Tibet and sparked the idea of combining traditional Tibetan clothing with modern outdoor wear. I drew parallels between these pilgrims and long-distance hikers, both needing durable, waterproof, breathable, and functional garments. Inspired by Tibetan silhouettes and their practical use of clothing, such as wearing garments “half on, half off” for temperature regulation and using clothing for storage, I explored how features like drawstrings, zippers, and multifunctional pockets could enhance outdoor gear. I also experimented with draping and mixed fabrics to replicate the Tibetan silhouette while keeping functionality. I referenced the vivid color schemes of Tibetan prayer flags and local garments to add cultural depth and visibility. My chosen muse is Lhakpa Sherpa, the woman who has summited Everest most often. Her strength and love of the outdoors inspired the collection’s spring/summer aesthetic—combining gorp-core style with practicality for adventurous consumers who value performance and cultural storytelling in their everyday outdoor wear.
