4 Future Reference* is a project that explores Will Howell’s identity and the introspective space he has remained in for the past year. The first part of this project explores the history of the Black design aesthetic over the past 100 years in America in the form of a visual zine and coded website. The second part of the project takes these references as a starting point while reflecting on the current zeitgeist and year of isolation caused by Covid-19. Will’s next concept was to venture into new territory by designing a capsule collection of garments that would embody this year of Covid-19 provoked isolation and self-reflection. Embedded in the design of the garments, contains subtle gems hinting at transparency in self and personal trauma healing. Will’s design process differed from previous projects by embarking on the notion of starting from zero and generating lists. Some of these themes embodied in this collection include therapy, music, time, reality, and escapism. Instead of displaying in a regular retail space, Will made the decision to have these garments on display in The MoMA along with a temporary curation which would allow further opportunity to dive into these personal references. Altogether, this project serves as an exploration of personal design aesthetics, as well as a public call to action. With the intention of acknowledging previous Black contributions in design, and showing through my own actions, how one might explore their personal design aesthetic by pulling from experience.