BOOM BABIES

Over the past year, I’ve had the chance to immerse myself in Syracuse’s scenic beauty and vibrant local businesses, which truly give the community its charm. Among them, one store left a particularly lasting impression on me—Boom Babies.

Every day, my bus route to school takes me past the street where Boom Babies stands, and from the very first time I saw it, I was captivated. The store’s eclectic display of dazzling gowns, vintage dresses, and retro treasures never fails to catch my eye. Whether I’m heading to class or returning home, simply passing by brings a smile to my face.

Ellen McCauley’s poem perfectly encapsulates that energy, so when it came time to select a poem, I knew this was the one. Her illustration—reminiscent of the bold, colorful fashion posters of the 1960s—immediately resonated with me. The vivid hues, dynamic patterns, and undeniable sense of movement were elements I sought to echo in my own work. To complete the design, I drew inspiration from the psychedelic poster style, incorporating ornate, distorted lettering to heighten the vibrant, playful spirit I wanted to convey.