Travel back to the 1940s. It was a misdemeanor to wear a zoot suit in the City of Los Angeles.

Pachucas took up space, defying the cultural standards of Mexican American womanhood. Rebellious. Strong. “More than sexual property.”

We are still exploring what it means to be feminine, masculine, somewhere in between. Pachuca influence is everywhere, still: baggy suits, lined lips, slicked back hair, waves and curls. The mixing of cultural expression. Through it all, we are Pachuca Forever.

Produced in partnership with Barbara Rios. We explored our mutual heritage, grappling with what it means to be a ‘modern’ Mexican-American woman.

Shot at Brooklyn Grain Photo Studios with an all Latino team:

• Concept and modeling by Kelly Kennedy

• Photography, lighting, styling and editing by Barbara Rios

• Hair, makeup and assist by Laura Piedrahita

• Assist by Andres Piedrahita.

Reference: “PACHUCA: WOMEN IN ZOOT SUITS” / Christina Pappous.