September Three was born out of a lifelong interest in fashion and style.

At 10 years old I made my sister photograph me in front of a blanket I tacked to the roof of my bedroom while I dressed up in the likes of a “businesswoman” a “hair stylist” a “Coca-Cola model”. Through high school I waffled between lusting after aughts Abercrombie & Fitch clothes and creating outfits that used articles from my dad’s closet. In college I was inspired by a costume and fashion course I took while studying in Italy that helped broaden my understanding of international style; sneaker culture, mixing tight and loose pieces, monotones. I then entered Corporate America where I have been ever since – sometimes the most creative part of my workdays was the outfit I chose to assemble. Since the pandemic I have been working from home in sweatpants and t-shirts, with no desire to ever slip on a heel or iron a dress shirt ever again. 

September Three is both my birthday but also the time of year when seasons shift – change and rebirth echos the seasons of the big fashion houses, but also the day-to-day option we have to present ourselves to the world in whatever way we choose. What happens when the choice is made for us? What happens when our jobs and hobbies require a specific way of dressing in order to get the job done, stand out among peers, become more alluring or more standardized? I wanted to ask some interesting folks their thoughts and experiences to help better understand the power behind the uniforms we wear. Thanks for playing dress up with me and I hope you enjoy this project.”