no tears allowed

Category: Accessories

My graduation project explores the concept of "Nefesh" (soul/psyche) through the lens of Ethiopian masculinity, where emotional expression is often silenced. In traditional Ethiopian culture, vulnerability is rarely spoken aloud. Strength is measured through restraint. My work bridges this silence through garments that blend tailored structure with expressive streetwear, reflecting two generations: the older men who immigrated to Israel in formal dress, and the younger, bolder generation born into Israeli culture. A key element in the project is the notion of carrying — both physical and emotional. This came to life through the design of a leather bag fused with a sleeve, inspired by photographs of the older Ethiopian women in my life. These women were often seen carrying children on their backs or balancing food and heavy loads on their heads. Their strength, both visible and invisible, shaped my understanding of resilience. Through sketches and reflection, I arrived at the idea of a bag that is not a separate accessory, but an inseparable part of the garment — a symbol of the emotional baggage we carry, wanted or not. This design honors the women who bore so much and were often forced to quiet their presence behind the male voice. By placing their strength onto the male body, I aim to blur the boundaries between “ልቤ ዝም ብሎ ተናገረ” “My heart spoke in silence.”