Travelashion

Travelashion explores Traveller culture and personal style during a traditional horse drive in Wimborne, Dorset, where horses, jewellery, clothing and community come together along the River Stour.

I photographed Travelashion during a traditional Traveller horse drive in Wimborne, Dorset. I came to document the event, but as I spent time walking along the River Stour, I became fascinated not only by the horses and the atmosphere, but by the people themselves and the way culture and identity were expressed through appearance.

There was so much individuality: carefully chosen jewellery, long braids and hairstyles, tattoos, boots, dresses and practical clothes worn for riding and being around horses. Nothing was styled for my camera. These details were simply part of the day, naturally woven into a living Traveller culture.

I photographed people riding through the forest, gathering with friends and family, leading their horses into the River Stour and spending a summer day together by the water. Different generations shared the same space, each bringing their own personality and way of presenting themselves.

The title Travelashion came from combining Traveller and fashion, although this is not a fashion project in the conventional sense. I am interested in fashion as something that exists beyond trends and commercial images — in the everyday choices through which people communicate who they are, where they belong and the culture they carry with them.

Through portraits, details and spontaneous moments, Travelashion is my observation of a community where horses, family, tradition and personal style come together.