Origin of JustifyD

Growing up as a kid I could never express my feelings through what I wore, due to the lack of confidence I had in my image. I couldn't see how certain styles portray an individual’s expression. I was too clouded by the need to cover myself as much as possible at all times. I was never proud, but ashamed of being the skinny kid.

 It was only until I approached my early twenties that I had an epiphany. A sudden realisation that I had lost pride within myself, when utilizing the positive and negative criticism I had received from others. Guiding me into styles that didn't correlate with my personal values, passions, inspirations or vision. Leading me on a wild chase trying to decipher what it was that made me look at clothing fashion so irrationally.

 I grew to learn respect and pride within myself, passions, values and inspirations. I stopped looking for social acceptance to guide me into what I should be wearing or doing. I stopped justifying the things I did, what I wore or how I wore it. It was only then I found the styles that aligned with myself that I began to wear styles I loved. Neglecting the need for guidance from others and found how significant fashion can influence our persona.

 Seeing this effect on myself inspired me to look at societal influences, making me realise how dependant we have become on another’s opinion for fashion advice. I could see not only within the people I was close to or knew but even on social media and at social events. People would judge someone’s fashion sense without any reconciliation. Leaving some of these individuals on the receiving end feeling similar to my past experiences. Justifying what they were wearing and why. Making unnecessary reasoning to why they would choose a particular style. Or resorting to social media for unassured decisions.

 Something had to change. Whether big or small I believed I could have positive influence for our generation. Seeing how relevant these occurrences were, encouraged me to use my vision, passion for art and fashion to begin a movement. A movement that could encourage each individual to do and wear what symbolises themselves through personal values without the need for using others opinions. To cultivate a platform where hip-hop, street and gym wear can be expressed in a positive manner. A platform where we are equal and susceptible no matter gender, ethnicity, circumstance beliefs or vision. JustifyD being a style that transcends so much further than clothing that is appealing. It's about representing you, through more then just what you wear.

 Jacob Ryan.