Not only does this project explore the layers we drape around our bodies, but it also delves into the mental, cultural and emotional layers behind them. What to Wear gently encourages us to realign our gaze. Freely moving between the roles of photographer, painter and stylist, Letty Staal invites the viewer to adopt a fresh perspective.

In the outdoor settings, she places her models or objects in a natural frame where — the light constantly changes, altering the atmosphere and beauty of things every minute (Claude Monet). — Even the water blends the light. Reflections play with the composition. Here, something happens between the cultivated and the untamed, between unplanned moments and mindful planning. Where material and body come together, the raw romanticism in her work remains palpable. A piece of jewelry made from weedseeds or an animal pelt can evoke both fascination and discomfort. Why does one gain the status of a fashion object, while the other raises questions? What do we take for granted, and where do we draw the line?

What to wear is more than just a wardrobe. Instead of making a statement for or against fashion hypes, it shows how it moves from decor to decorum. The images evoke both contemplation and a gentle smile. They reveal natural grace and sometimes the fleeting charm of impermanence. Perhaps true beauty isn’t found in the object itself, but in our ability to view it with affection — be it the photographer capturing its essence or any beholder’s eye. 

Series within the project What to Wear :The Necklace, Naiad, The Fur Wearing Ladies, The Greeners, Skin Wearers, Cloth, Veiled Flower, Nymph, The Elderberry Bearing Gems, Headdress, Skin Graded