The importance of self-care and mental health protection served as the catalyst for designing this hoodie. The hoodie has an oversized fit in the softest quality material I could find to create a comfortable space to retreat to. Apart from seeking solitude as a defense mechanism, I also find it to be a meaningful way to connect with oneself, accompanied by the opportunity for inner peace. 

It took me a long time to realize that avoiding certain people and situations to protect one's mental health is not a sign of weakness, but rather an act of wisdom. Sometimes, you need to be able to put on your protective shield against external noise. Therefore, I began sketching a pattern that symbolizes a shield of protection. 

The shield is drawn as a circular ornament. The word "ornament" can refer to a decorative pattern used for embellishment. Ornaments have been an important part of art and design throughout time and are often used to give an object a certain personality or character. 

The pattern repeats within the circle, mirroring the necessity to emphasize the importance of prioritizing mental health, hence the placement of the shield on the hood. 

This hoodie serves as a reminder that it is okay to take up the protective shield, as the title of the hoodie reflects. 

xx Emilie