Spring / Summer

I'm beginning to notice similarities between some of my favourite photographers, artists and practitioners. Specifically the photos taken for Atilin's shoes and Eleanor Hardwick's photo shoot with Tenko for Rookie Mag. It's strange to think how two different people can arrive at very similar ideas, with each set of photographs focusing on a particular season. What's even more serendipitous is that they look as if they could have been taken on the same day. These photos are particularly relevant to my readers who are ready to enjoy months of Spring and Summer but anyone who is feeling the cold. While  I do love Winter and getting to wear lots of layers I do wish there was a bit more sunshine to take some photos of my own! If you're looking for some cute summer dresses I recommend taking a look at the Atilin Facebook page if you liked any of the dresses or shoes from those photos. I'm totally in awe of her talent and humbled someone able to create such beautiful pieces is inspired by my outfits

Photos 1-6 Sol Marina Sotelo shot by Isi Violeta, clothes and shoes by Atilin. Photos 7-12: Tenko shot by Eleanor Hardwick for Rookie Mag. 

Katie Jones Fall 2015

I've known about Katie Jones wonderful knitted creations for quite some time now but never felt compelled to discuss her work on this blog, until now. The combination of a glittery rubber boots, a fantasy world and colour is itself enough to attract me towards a collection but the casting of Rina Sawayama (instagram) was the icing on the cake. In addition to being a model she's also a singer/ songwriter, nail technician and graduate of the prestigious Cambridge University. Basically I have a huge crush on her at the moment which only intensifies my love for this collection. Her playful poses complimented the sentiment of this photo shoot as well as the textural elements such as the large scarves and pom pom earrings. What I find most interesting about this collection is the number of different techniques integral to a single piece as well as the colour combinations and overall use of patterns. Stylist Emma Slade Edmonson did a spectacular job and I don't think these photos would not be what they are without her influence. While I've previously stated JuJu Footwear has become the go to shoe for smaller independent designers something as simple as changing the laces on the boots really had a big impact. 

What I found particularly interesting about Katie Jones' knitted creations were the cuts and shapes of her pieces. By equal measure she was able to create darling cropped, knitted vests and long draping cardigans and coats. Her scarves weren't a typical, boring, straightforward design either and allowed her to explore a variety of different techniques and add texture to her outfits. Other designers who knit and create such as Caroline Kaufman have been busy making statement scarves but it's only recently that they've become important accessories during fashion week. In part this has been due to bitterly cold conditions in New York but I'd like to think that things are undergoing a slow transformation. That people are appreciating the addition of texture and colour to their outfits. Had I not chosen to study science or if I had the free time now I'd like to experiment with knitting machines and introduce different materials into their design. This urge to reinvent myself or try mixed media has also been inspired by Nashville artist Zoe Schlacter's instagram account and the numerous swatches she's posted there. 

This particular collection, aptly named 'Let them Eat Cake' reinforced this idea of taking joy in frivolous and pretty things, particularly the white frilled edges of many of the coats and scarves. Of course these are bound to get dirty after many adventures and outings all of which reminds us of Marie Antoinette's decadent and sheltered lifestyle romanticised through her namesake feature films. Again this reinforces the idea that these clothes are special pieces and should be treated as such but for something as cute and colourful as a big statement jacket and given how much work went into its design and execution I think they deserve to be seen. I just like the idea of serving up knowledge and telling other people about the clothes I wear on my back through word of mouth in addition to online content. Because you can't hear the sound of me getting all gushy and emotional about a coat as you would if you knew me in real life but the truth is clothing does affect me on an emotional level. 

Images via Katie Jones website

Ammerman Schlösberg Fall 2013

It's no secret that I adore everything about Ammerman Schlösberg, but I love this collection in particular as it reminds me of Sailor Neptune and Uranus from the Sailor Moon anime. While I'm not surprised that the English dubbed version censored the true nature of Neptune and Uranus' relationship I still find it pretty disappointing. Think of how many girls could have been helped if they knew their attraction to other girls was represented in mainstream media! Ugh, this is what makes me mad. While I'm still on the topic of girl crushes, the makeup and hair styling for this shoot totally makes me think of Harley Quinn. Yet another badass female villain with quite literally a clownish style but is still able to command respect. While the clothes aren't in themselves at the same level Ammerman Schlösberg maintain themselves at today, all these different associations are what give this collection its strength. It's also really interesting to see how the brand has developed since its inception and the slight differences in each campaign. No longer are models wearing six inch platform heels but the doll hospital of Fall/Winter 2015 was a sure fire hit, striking the perfect balance between Gothic and Lolita.

*All images via ammermanschlosberg.com/

Rebirth

Wishing a happy Easter to all my readers who celebrate this holiday and to everyone else we only have to wait one more day before discounted chocolate. I wanted to make a little shrine full of pastels, rabbits and egg shaped objects using bits and bobs I've collected over the years. It's been a really long time since I've made one but I've had the idea for this one for a couple of weeks now. The shape of the sunglasses reminded me of eggs and in Easter everything is in pastel colours since it coincides with Spring for the northern hemisphere. Creating this shrine was my refuge from the cold weather and a way to enjoy the last rays of sunshine before being plunged into Winter.