My concept is based on the late Renaissance, royalty silhouettes and western saddles. Kings and queens are reference for structures, looking at portraiture of royal figures in history, exaggerated shapes and dominating paintings of the 16th Century.  Antique golds, romantic rich colour palettes and baroque print influences decorated a harvest of climbing poppys around the body.

An earthy rich colour palette of double ombre georgettes and laser cut bull leathers decorate my accessories with an intricate floral engraving. The elegant navy brocades compliment the soft crepe de chines prints, finished with a flash of metallic green lamb nappa to complete the royal aesthetic of my Spring/Summer 13 collection titled Ophiela.

Inspired by 1904 Italian opera Madame Butterfly, these illustrations take inspiration from the merging of cultures. It explores the kimono, silhouette & print, Italy’s stunning masquerades & the delicacy of the iris flower. Each illustration is a stark reflection of the contrast of the two cultures. East meets West. A fusion of national identities.

 The Past Historic is authentic, delicate leather leaves bloom around the body. The Future Historic captures the origins of the era, through combining contrasting fabrics, finishes & silhouette. A repeated pattern of loose embroidery is seen on the jacket,underneath, an explosion of a watercolour print enlivens the dress.