Greek Mythology-Inspired Denim By Carlton Yaito Merges Fashion And Art - Konbini US

Carlton Yaito is a master of combining fashion with art. A rare skill these days when so many designers are simply out to create on-trend and fast-fashion style pieces.

For his latest collection, Carlton focused on turning distressed denim into wearable pieces of art mainly inspired by his favorite class of Greek mythology. Incredibly detailed, his denim creations are literally one of a kind.

Carlton started experimenting with fashion when he was only 16 years old. He established his first brand, Privacy in Public, back in 2006. “I was literally a kid trying to understand business with no business background,” he admits. But that didn’t stop Carlton’s interest in exploring the art and fashion crossover:

“I took classes in garment construction, draping, and a few fashion marketing classes. With my understanding of fabrics, it became easy for me to figure out manipulating denim. That’s what got me here today.”

Carlton’s inspiration comes from one place and is evident in almost every single piece he creates – his ninth grade Greek mythology class. The artist says the class fascinated him to the point where he saw more realism in Greek statues and sculptures than in actual people. He tells Konbini:

“Sculptures literally speak history without saying a word. That was enough for me to use them as my vocal point in starting this brand.”

But Greek mythology is not the only thing close to the designer’s heart. Carlton’s denim creations also focus on sustainability and upcyling:

“My designs focus directly on denim and its reconstruction. We purchase tons of broken in denim jeans and jacket, completely take them apart and reuse them in different garments – nothing goes to waste.”

Sustainable, handmade clothing vs. fast-fashion is something Yaito is very opinionated about. According to him, “wholesale designers are selling an image rather than actual craftsmanship.” He believes this consumerism and urge to sell is what makes fashion a dying form of art:

“Fashion is a dying art form. “Being yourself and breathing expression through garments – that’s what made fashion a billion dollar industry.

It is more important than ever that designer stay unique, because without that individuality, design will become ubiquitous. One spectrum, one idea – that’s not fashion.”

Check out more of Carlton Yaito’s incredible work below and be sure to visit his website for more.