Addressing Psoriasis™ Winners

The art of dressing well
Trisha Lagaso Goldberg
Age 39, Aiea, Hawaii

For artist Trisha Lagaso Goldberg, fashion is about more than just looking good. "It's a part of who I am," she says. "I use clothes as an extension of my creativity."

Trisha, who makes installation art, sculpture and digital photography, learned to sew early on and made many of her own clothes, "much to my parents' chagrin."

Two years ago, a stressful time at work triggered first mild, then severe plaque psoriasis, which runs in Trisha's family.

Suddenly none of the clothes in her closet were comfortable. Denim, a major wardrobe staple, agitated her skin. Inflamed plaques would leak and bleed through light-colored clothing.

"I felt out of sorts, like I wasn't myself. I couldn't wear any of my clothes, which was a way to communicate who I am to other people."

"I went through this really challenging period but I came through with a sense of determination, tempered with playfulness," she says. "Now my eyes are open to cuts and fabrics that will compliment me, that are different than before but still aligned with my personality."

Trisha's wardrobe includes pants, loose tops that "don't look like pajamas," and items like light shrugs that can cover up active sores.

"Being in this contest has given me an opportunity to step up my game and be a source [of inspiration] for other psoriatics and myself, and stand proud even though sometimes I really want to shrink away."