project to erase the stigma around self-harm. Her powerful, intimate images are accompanied by stories where her subjects open up about their physical scars. “The reality is that everyone looks different, and we all have different emotional experiences that become a part of our story,” she says. “At the moment fashion still has a long way to go, and we as a society still have work to do around removing the stigma from scars, and visual differences.
Self-harm changes the relationship between clothes and the body. Summers are no longer carefree days of t-shirts and sundresses, but of sweltering discomfort, when all that matters is hiding the scars on your arms and legs. Society has started to talk about mental health, but the conversation is still on a level that excludes ‘uglier’ symptoms like self-harm. Perceptions are changing, but many are still scared to show their scars for fear of being stared at or judged.
While the way we represent self-harm in fashion imagery is difficult to gauge, a lack of representation entirely suggests that we would rather the issue did not exist. Of course, in an ideal world, it wouldn’t, but, as, we can’t ignore it anymore. As with any intervention, no matter how well intentioned, there is a risk that some people will be triggered, but there is also huge potential for a positive impact on a profoundly neglected issue.
It’s time to stop pulling down shirt sleeves and being afraid to wear shorts in summer. Talking about self-harm can encourage people to seek help if they are struggling. We need the voices of survivors to say that it does get better. Self-harm doesn’t define you. It may be a while before we see models with scars in high fashion campaigns, but in the meantime, we need to keep the conversation going.
Japanese fashion sub culture yamikawaii anyone?