Arts Thread

The relationship between the wearer, the garment and the embroidery is a key value to hand embroiderer, Alana Holmes’ practice. Celestial Embrace is an embellished wrap that offers the wearer the opportunity to become an integral part of the creative journey, embodying an experience of elegance, grace and empowerment. Ethereal beauty, baroque opulence and the grandeur of religious and royal settings are the creative inspiration used in the design of Celestial Embrace. These inspirations have led Alana to select intricate hand embroidery techniques such as long and short stitches, French knots and the embellishment of tamboured hexagon beads, pearls, diamantes and delicate lace to create a textural appearance. The use of watercolour painted on to the stitched surface adds a sense of fluidity and vibrancy to the work. Alana has meticulously chosen these techniques and materials. The long and short stitches reflect the texture of the decorative architectural wood, the beads and embellishments create a regal aura, paired together they uniquely reflect an ethereal quality. Carefully selected materials ensure a rich yet lightweight feel, and sheer fabrics allow the wearer’s skin to come directly into contact with the embroidery for a sensuous and intimate embrace. Drawing inspiration from architecture and works of art for both the structural and decorative elements; Alana incorporates these features in a way that feels dynamic and fluid. Following her values she has created an evening wear piece that is not simply a garment but a work of art! Through her work, Alana Holmes produces bespoke women’s evening wear that resonates deeply with the wearer, evoking the same emotions and sense of grandeur that she experiences herself in the powerful, beautiful settings she draws inspiration from. Each piece is not only a reflection of Alana’s vision but a medium through which the wearer can capture and indulge in their own personal narrative.